Pros Stylish interior and exterior, efficient powertrains, driver-assistance tech comes standard.
Cons Smallish storage cubbies, infotainment takes getting used to, plug-in hybrid powertrain could use some refinement.
Pros Elegant interior design Spacious second-row seating Many standard safety tech features Available as a plug-in hybrid
Cons Not as fun to drive as most competitors Ride is a little busier than you might expect from a luxury crossover
Pros Things we like Good electric/hybrid handover Fuel and battery efficiency Build quality Not so much
Cons Hefty price Compromised load area Under-servoed brakes Paranoid parking assistance
The X3 has never done BMW much credit, but the current one is a thorough enough job to take on the class best.
Pros Good ride and handling, fine engines, well-finished cabin, many high-tech options
Cons Note that word 'options'. And the steering is a bit numb, not helped by the thick steering wheel
PROS Good power and response in hybrid mode Premium styling and high-quality cabin Plenty of space for adults front and rear
CONS Not a lot of grunt in EV mode Short real-world EV range Battery packaging impedes on cargo space
