BMW X3 Review: A budget X5?!

This is the BMW X3!

It received a mid-life facelift in late 2021, and Mat’s about to find out whether the M-Sport plug-in hybrid edition still stands the test of time against newer competitors such as the new Mercedes GLC & Genesis GV70.

Well for starters, let’s check out the design. It’s relatively similar to the original X3, but there are a couple of design changes. Around the back, there are updated 3D-effect taillights, some real exhaust tips and an updated diffuser (which to be honest, is likely to have little to no effect). Around the side, there are bold creases across the doors and protruding side skirts to help with the sporty looks, and upfront there’s an updated bumper and a few new vents. Naturally, though, there’s a huge grille up front, which doesn’t do much for the looks.

Step inside and there are only a few changes to the original X3. There’s an updated infotainment screen and full digital dials; otherwise, it’s all the same. That’s not such a bad thing, but when you consider newer BMWs come with a full-length, curved infotainment/dial screen, this already seems a bit outdated. Thankfully there are quality materials throughout most of the cabin, although if you reach a bit lower you may be met by some scratchy plastics.

In this video, we’ve got our hands on the xDrive30e. It’s powered by a 2-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, which combines to deliver 292hp and 300Nm. BMW claim it will hit 60mph in 6.1 seconds, and it comes in at a cost of around £56,000.

The BMW X3 range starts from around £47,000. But should you still choose it over the competition? And if you’re in the market for a plug-in hybrid SUV, is it really the smart choice instead of the newer GLC? Stick with Mat and see for yourself!

Chapters
00:00 Intro
00:36 Design
02:04 Interior
04:40 Back Seats
06:31 Boot
07:30 5 Annoying Things
09:02 5 Cool Things
10:50 Engine
11:14 Town Driving
13:11 Motorway Driving
14:20 Country Road Driving
15:48 0-60mph
16:23 Verdict

Mat’s BMW X3 deal: https://bit.ly/Mats-X3-Choice-1206

Genesis GV70 review: https://bit.ly/Genesis-GV70-Review-2023

Volvo XC60 review: https://bit.ly/Volvo-XC60-Review-2023

Lexus NX review: Lexus-NX-Review-2023

Sell your car with carwow: https://bit.ly/Buy-Sell-WOW