Strong and efficient engines; plenty of passenger and cargo space for the segment; generous standard equipment; engaging M40i
Options are pricey; M40i's ride quality affected by poor pavement
A new entry-level model, the rear-drive sDrive30i, joins the range. Standard equipment expands to include forward-collision mitigation with pedestrian detection and parking sensors at both ends.
The xDrive30i is probably the choice with the broadest appeal. The difference in fuel economy between this and the sDrive30i is hardly worth bothering about, and the extra security from AWD more than makes up for it. Stretch to the Driver Assistance Plus package. Find a BMW X3 for sale
The 2019 BMW X3 is available in sDrive30i, xDrive30i and M40i forms.
The sDrive30i ($41,995) comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED low beams/halogen high beams, LED daytime running lights/fog lights, roof rails, a powered tailgate, power-folding/heated side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, self-dimming rearview and driver's-side mirrors, a rearview camera, selectable driving modes, tri-zone automatic climate control, 8-way power-adjustable front seats (including bolsters) with driver's-side memory settings, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dark oak wood trim, 40/20/40-split/folding/reclining rear seats, simulated leather upholstery, front and rear parking sensors, forward-collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, iDrive electronics interface (central display and center console button-knob controller), two USB ports, a 12-speaker audio system and HD radio.
The xDrive30i ($44,295) has the same equipment, but adds all-wheel drive with hill-descent control.
An optional Convenience package adds adaptive LED headlights, keyless entry/ignition, a panoramic sunroof, 4-way adjustable lumbar support and satellite radio. The Premium package includes everything from the Convenience package plus a head-up display, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, navigation with real-time traffic updates, smartphone-based remote services and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration.
The Executive package includes everything from the Premium package, plus an all-digital instrument display, gesture control (enabling a small number of infotainment functions controlled by certain hand movements) and Parking Assistance (a 360-degree camera system, enhanced front/rear parking sensors and an automated parking feature).
The M40i ($55,645) adds the more powerful engine, sport exhaust, 19-in alloy wheels, upgraded brakes, sport-tuned suspension and variable-ratio steering, special M Sport styling, automatic high beams, 14-way power-adjustable front sport seats, hands-free tailgate operation and everything from the Convenience package.
The M40i's Premium package is essentially the same as the 30i's counterpart, but (front and rear) heated seats cost extra. The Executive package is also similar and requires selection of the Premium package.
All three models are eligible for a number of packages and individual options. The Driving Assistance package adds blind spot monitoring and lane-departure warning. The Driving Assistance Plus package can then be added on top of that, bringing adaptive cruise control with stop/go, active lane-keep assist, Traffic Jam Assist, front cross-traffic alert and evasive-action assistance. The Parking Assistance package is also available separately.
Many extras can be added individually (one of the many reasons why special-ordering a BMW is a good idea). Other options include a space-saver spare tire, ventilated front seats, rear sunshades, wireless smartphone charging, Wi-Fi and a Harman Kardon 16-speaker Surround Sound system. Each X3 may also come with an adaptive suspension, although tuning differs by model.
| Sport Utility | Original MSRP / Price | Engine | Horsepower | City MPG / Hwy MPG | Transmission | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| X3 M40i Sports Activity Vehicle | $54,650 / $51,325 | 4 Cylinder Turbo | 355 | 20 / 27 | 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic | AWD4WD |
| X3 sDrive30i Sports Activity Vehicle | $41,000 / $38,630 | 4 Cylinder Turbo | 248 | 23 / 30 | 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic | RWD |
| X3 xDrive30i Sports Activity Vehicle | $43,000 / $40,490 | 4 Cylinder Turbo | 248 | 22 / 29 | 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic | AWD4WD |
Every X3 comes standard with anti-lock brakes that automatically dry the pads in wet weather, plus front-side airbags, full-length side-curtain airbags and BMW Assist eCall emergency services, which includes automatic crash notification and an emergency services request button.
The X3 has not yet been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has given the X3 its best accolade of Top Safety Pick+ after it earned maximum scores in every major category.
| Basic | 4 Years/50,000 Miles |
| Drivetrain | 4 Years/50,000 Miles |
| Corrosion | 12 Years/Unlimited Miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 Years/Unlimited Miles |
| Maintenance | 3 Years/36,000 Miles |
2019 Acura RDX -- All-new for 2019. Roomy and comes with a lot of equipment for the money, including many advanced safety features.
2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio -- Looks the part, drives the part. Not as spacious as the X3.
2019 Audi Q5/SQ5 -- A well-rounded and stylish package with impressive technology. The SQ5 is particularly tempting.
2019 Jaguar F-Pace -- Updated for 2019. Lots of passenger and cargo space encompassed within a well-designed body. Engines and suspensions are also top-class.
2019 Lexus NX -- Nicely put together, well-stocked interior, pleasant driving manners. A hybrid version is available.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class -- Arguably more stylish and luxurious than the X3. The 362-hp AMG GLC 43 is a direct rival to the M40i.
2019 Volvo XC60 -- A new generation debuted for the previous model year. Smart, elegant styling inside and out, plus several attractive safety features.
Used Porsche Macan -- Handles more like a sport sedan than a crossover, and its styling is decidedly upscale. See if a certified pre-owned (CPO) model fits your budget.
