BMW X3 2018-2024: what to know before you buy?
The BMW X3 is by far one of the most popular compact luxury SUVs in Quebec. With a new generation for the 2025 model year, it has been given a smoother, more modern body and a full complement of on-board technologies, while retaining much the same powertrains. And yet, its price now starts at just over $62,000 including fees. Ouch!
This is a good opportunity to tell you about the outgoing X3, the one marketed from 2018 to 2024. For the same price, you could get your hands on a plug-in hybrid X3 or a six-cylinder model, both with low mileage and in very good condition. Otherwise, you should know that early examples of this generation are currently selling from around $24,000.
The entry-level version is the xDrive30i, powered by a 248 hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the M40i adds two cylinders and boosts power to 355 or 382 hp, depending on the year. The transmission is an eight-speed automatic that does a good job overall, and average fuel consumption is 9.6 or 10.4 L/100 km, respectively. There's more economical fuel in the category and, unsurprisingly, we're talking about premium gasoline here.
To remedy the situation, BMW has added the X3 xDrive30e for 2020, a plug-in hybrid model with a total of 288 hp and a range of 29 km on battery power alone. You might say that's not a lot of electric range, and you'd be right! It should also be noted that average fuel consumption is close to 10 L/100 km in regular hybrid mode.
The other mid-generation alternative is the 473-hp X3 M, capable of 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, but requiring 14.6 L/100 km... provided you don't get carried away too often at the wheel. In the M Competition version, expect 503 hp and 3.9 seconds to complete the same sprint. It's a hot hatch!
For 2022, BMW has made a few aesthetic revisions, updated the control unit based on the new BMW 4 Series, integrated Amazon's Alexa assistant, redesigned the center console and improved the range of driving aids. By the way, if you're looking to make a style statement, opt for an X3 equipped with the M Sport package or BMW Individual options.
In terms of cargo capacity, the trunk holds 813 liters and expands to 1,775 liters when the rear seats are folded, putting this BMW at an advantage over many of its competitors.
While the majority of X3 owners love its sporty ride, good all-wheel drive and practical size, not to mention its safety and the operation of its iDrive multimedia system, some find the suspension a little too firm. Maintenance costs are also higher than the average for other compact luxury SUVs. Yes, the X3 is more reliable than an Audi Q5, but nothing like a Lexus NX or Acura RDX from the same years, for example. Various electronic glitches have been reported, particularly on the 2019 model.
On that note, happy shopping!
