The handsomely beefed-up X3 possesses a raised ride height – just one reason why it’s able to tackle less-than-perfect terrain. Meanwhile, its compact dimensions are a genuine asset when it comes to handling urban situations. Moreover, a five-door body ensures that accessing both passenger and luggage compartments is always extremely straightforward.
The vehicle’s cabin is decidedly roomy. In fact, it lags only a little way behind the interior space offered by the larger X5. The driver is provided with an adjustable seat and steering wheel, which makes it quick and easy to establish a comfortable position. There’s room in the rear compartment for three adults, while the X3’s 550-litre boot is wide enough – and its sill low enough – to ensure that luggage access is simple. With 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats flipped, cargo capacity increases further, to a very useful 1,550 litres.
Entry-level SE trims feature a 2.0-litre 181bhp petrol engine, which delivers 0-60mph in a little more than eight seconds and returns up to 35.8mpg. The baseline diesel alternative is a 2.0-litre 187bhp unit, which allows this SUV to go from 0-60mph in approximately 7.7 seconds, while returning up to 47.9mpg. Of all the options available, the most powerful is a 3.0-litre 322bhp diesel engine, which produces 0-60mph in roughly 4.7 seconds. Unsurprisingly, plug-in hybrid X3 variants offer the greenest results, specifically a 2.0-litre 288bhp petrol-electric engine, which returns as much as 128.4mpg, and produces emissions as low as 49g/km.
For your listening pleasure, a six-speaker stereo is included as standard, featuring an MP3-compatible CD player, an FM/AM tuner and DAB digital radio. AUX and USB interfaces and Bluetooth connectivity are included too, the latter enabling audio streaming and hands-free control.
The X3 comes with a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating and numerous driver aids. For instance, Park Distance Control uses front and rear-mounted sensors, which send an ultrasonic signal to the cabin if an unseen obstacle is detected. Other features include Tyre Pressure Monitoring, which constantly keeps track of air pressure, alerting the driver to any significant deviation.
Book a test drive
The X3 is available to test drive at your nearest Williams BMW centre. We look forward to hearing from you so please get in touch with us at your earliest convenience to make your appointment.