The BMW X3 has become one of the most popular compact luxury SUVs on the market. The latest edition of the X3 has eliminated the rear-wheel-drive versions and BMW has simplified the lineup to just two models, both equipped with all-wheel drive. You can get either the X3 30 xDrive or the X3 M50 xDrive. The new BMW X3 is getting stellar reviews from the most respected industry publications including Car and Driver, MotorTrend and TheDrive.com. Here's a brief summary of the awesome reception the BMW X3 has earned and why you'll want to take one for an exhilarating test drive at Grayson BMW in Knoxville, TN.
Car and Driver: The X3 Will Give You a Lot for Your Money, for the Same Money
According to the automotive experts at Car and Driver, the new BMW X3 is now lower, longer and wider than before. The X3 30 x-Drive is also 1.3 inches longer, .6 of an inch lower and about an inch wider for Maryville, TN buyers. The cladding around the wheel arches has been eliminated, the door handles are flush, and the headlights curve gracefully with the body into the fenders.
Interior BMW X3 highlights according to Car and Driver
The interior dimensions are within an inch of the previous model, assuming you get the full length Sky Lounge panoramic roof, a fixed glass panel that has an opaque screen that you can roll back. It makes the X3 feel more spacious and so does a much lower dashboard with an iX-style curved display as well as reconfigured central air vents that are considerably lower. Car and Driver notes that the iDrive controller and curved displays use BMW's Operating System 9 with controls that are fairly simple. An open well with two cupholders sits ahead of the shifter and Sevierville, TN drivers will also get wireless device charging and a pair of USB-C ports.
BWM X3 Performance according to Car and Driver
The BMW X3 30 still offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder but elevates the output to 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. BWM has added a 48-volt hybrid system to smooth the stop-start system and add some torque. The most significant power improvements include a dual fuel-injection strategy that delivers high- and low-pressure fuel into the combustion chamber, along with enhancements for the turbocharger and intercooler, and a new active coil ignition system. Last but not least is a new Miller combustion cycle engine that shortens the compression stroke relative to the power stroke, resulting in fuel efficiency of up to 33 MPG on the highway.
MotorTrend: BMW X3 offers advanced technology, two powertrain options
MotorTrend points out that, inside the new BMW X3, large screens and colorful ambient light panels are highlights of the simple, minimalistic cabin. The X3 continues to offer Oak Ridge, Tennessee drivers both turbocharged inline-4- and inline-6-cylinder engine options, now with a higher level of hybridization that allows for all-electric driving in certain situations. As noted above, all-wheel-drive is now standard across the entire X3 lineup, and remote engine start is available on select models.
TheDrive.com: The 2025 BMW X3 Is More Comfortable and More Capable
TheDrive.com editor emphasized the extraordinary performance of the new X3 version of the Ultimate Driving Machine™, noting that it can reach 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. The editor noted that the X3 has agile body movement and some torque-vectoring upgrades that let it take you around low-speed hairpins in a way that hot hatches can't match. The Drive.com editor appreciated what a smooth and comfortable ride this high-performance vehicle delivers and recommends it as a compact luxury SUV well worth considering.
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