The 2021 BMW X3 is a do-all small crossover loaded with luxury, technology, and usability, with a dash of sporty personality.
Pros The best BMW to buy? Strong engine choices Decent standard safety gear Comfortable, well-appointed cabin Ferocious M versions
Cons Mighty expensive when loaded up Wallflower styling Grabby hybrid brakes A few cheap touches inside
The 2021 BMW X3's #1 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Compact SUVs category. Currently the BMW X3 has a score of 8.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Muscular engine options Poised ride and handling Easy-to-use infotainment system Roomy seating and cargo space
Cons Higher starting price than many rivals
The 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Many advanced safety features are now standard.Android Auto is finally available.A few previously optional features are now standard.
Pros Smooth ride and comfortable seats Wide variety of standard and optional features for personalization Roomy interior for both front and rear passengers
Cons Limited real-world EV range Lower overall fuel economy than the gas-only X3 Questionable value proposition of the plug-in hybrid
The 2019 BMW X3 is a versatile compact crossover that delivers on rising expectations.
Pros Handsome exterior Responsive and sharp powertrains Standard automatic emergency braking this year Good outward vision Ample interior room
Cons Can easily reach more than $60,000 CarPlay with a subscription? Really? Conservative compared to competitors No electrified version yet Relatively heavy steering
The 2019 BMW X3 ranked #5 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the BMW X3 has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 13 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engines Nimble handling Spacious, supportive seats Above-average cargo capacity
Cons Rivals are more opulent inside Above-average starting price
Fifteen years ago, it might have been difficult to foresee the success of the X3. Back then, BMW's 3 Series wagon set the standard for the class and offered all the practicality you could want in a vehicle that size. Why get something that didn't handle as well and got worse fuel economy? But that original 2004 X3 helped pioneer the entry-level luxury SUV class, and the 2019 X3 is now a hugely important staple in the BMW lineup.
Pros Both available engines are fuel-efficient and powerful Wide variety of standard and optional features for personalization Plenty of room for front and rear passengers
Cons Android Auto is conspicuously absent from the options list
