The 2026 BMW X3 carries over largely unchanged from the significant 2025 redesign, adding only minor updates like an available tire sealant kit and YouTube app integration[1]. Starting at $52,075 for the 30 xDrive, BMW's bestselling SUV continues to deliver a balanced driving experience that Car and Driver says "supersedes its sometimes-puzzling styling elements"[2]. After spending time with this fourth-generation X3, the combination of fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and sporty handling makes it easy to overlook the cabin's less-than-luxurious materials[1].
The compact luxury SUV segment demands excellence across performance, practicality, technology, and safety. Buyers cross-shopping the X3 will encounter formidable competition from the Mercedes-Benz GLC ($50,700), Genesis GV70 ($50,480), Audi Q5 ($52,000), and Volvo XC60 ($50,995)[2]. Car and Driver ranks the X3 fourth among Best Compact Luxury SUVs, trailing only the Porsche Macan, Genesis GV70, and Mercedes GLC[2]. Understanding where this German SUV excels and where it still falls short helps narrow down a decision in this crowded field.
| Category | X3 30 xDrive | X3 M50 xDrive |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl + 48V Mild Hybrid[2] | 3.0L Turbo 6-cyl + 48V Mild Hybrid[2] |
| Horsepower | 255 hp @ 6,500 rpm[2] | 393 hp @ 5,200 rpm[3] |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm[2] | 428 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm[3] |
| 0-60 mph (tested) | 6.2 sec[2] | 4.0 sec[2] |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Comb) | 27/33/29 mpg[2] | 25/30/27 mpg[2] |
| Starting MSRP | $52,075[3] | $67,075[3] |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 lbs[1] | 4,850 lbs[1] |
| Cargo Volume | 32 cu ft (seats up) / 67 cu ft (seats down)[2] | 32 cu ft (seats up) / 67 cu ft (seats down)[3] |
Both engines feature the 48-volt mild-hybrid system introduced with the 2025 redesign. The M50's 4,850-pound towing capacity ranks among the highest in the compact luxury SUV class[1].
BMW positions the X3 between the subcompact X1 and larger X5 in its SUV lineup[1]. The fourth-generation design features angular body creases and a prominent grille that Car and Driver describes as "clunky styling elements front and rear"[2]. Visibility is excellent overall, and the optional surround-view camera system provides added clarity in tight spots[1].
Where the X3 falls short is interior materials. Edmunds specifically notes that interior materials "aren't as luxurious as they should be" for a vehicle in this price range[1]. Standard equipment includes heated and ventilated power-adjustable sport seats with three color choices for the faux-leather upholstery[2]. Genuine leather remains optional, as does a woven fabric instrument panel made from recycled polyester—marking its first use on any BMW product[2].
Cargo space improved 10 percent over the outgoing model, with 32 cubic feet available behind the rear seats[2]. Car and Driver fit 8 carry-on suitcases in the cargo area with the rear seats up and 24 cases with the seats folded[2]. Rear passengers benefit from air vents but lack independent fan and temperature controls[1].
The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the 30 xDrive produces 255 horsepower boosted by the 48-volt hybrid system[2]. Car and Driver tested the four-cylinder model to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds—respectable for a family SUV weighing 4,246 pounds[2]. Edmunds finds the 30 xDrive "fun to drive, offering a satisfying blend of acceleration, ride quality, responsive handling and fuel efficiency"[1].
The M50 delivers a more genuine BMW experience. Its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six produces 393 horsepower and rocketed to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds during Car and Driver testing[2]. Three drive modes—Personal, Efficient, and Sport—tailor responses to the driver's needs, and an adaptive suspension is standard on the M50 (optional on 30 xDrive)[2].
Real-world fuel economy impressed. The M50 returned 29 mpg on Car and Driver's 75-mph highway loop—2 mpg better than its EPA highway rating[2]. The 30 xDrive observed 25 mpg in mixed driving[2]. Premium fuel is required for all variants.
On the downside, the mild hybrid system has room for improvement. Edmunds found the auto stop-start feature intrusive when coasting to a stop, momentarily cutting the air conditioning on warmer days[1]. Car and Driver also notes the "faux engine-noise soundtrack can be annoying"[2].
BMW Operating System 9 powers the X3's digital displays and infotainment system[1]. The iDrive rotary knob remains in place—a welcome surprise considering BMW removed it from the recently refreshed X1 and X2 models[2]. The system also accepts inputs via the touchscreen, steering wheel controls, and voice commands[2].
| Feature | 30 xDrive | M50 xDrive |
|---|---|---|
| Blind-Spot Alert | Standard[3] | Standard[3] |
| Collision Warning System | Standard[3] | Standard[3] |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Optional[3] | Optional[3] |
| Surround View Camera | Optional[3] | Optional[3] |
| Premium Audio | Optional[3] | Optional[3] |
| Heated Steering Wheel | Optional[3] | Standard[3] |
| Panoramic Moonroof | Optional[3] | Standard[3] |
| Remote Engine Start | Optional[3] | Standard[3] |
BMW Digital Premium subscription unlocks video streaming and gaming options when the vehicle is stopped[2]. Spotify, Amazon Music, and now YouTube join the X3's list of streaming services for 2026[1]. Connectivity remains strong with two USB-C ports in each row and a wireless charging pad with vertical design[1].
Climate controls integrated into the touchscreen require additional steps to make adjustments, which Edmunds found less intuitive[1]. Car and Driver agrees that "infotainment controls could be streamlined"[2].
Starting at $52,075, the BMW X3 is pricier than the Genesis GV70 and Acura RDX but cheaper than the Mercedes GLC[1]. Edmunds finds the X3 still offers solid value, even when adding optional features[1]. Buyers generally pay 4.8% below MSRP on the 30 xDrive—approximately $2,454 in savings—while M50 buyers save around 3.2% or $2,090[1].
Special APR rates start at 0.9% for 36, 48, or 60 months[1]. Military members and recent college graduates qualify for a $1,000 discount[1]. Lease options start around $741 per month with $5,741 due at signing[1].
BMW's warranties are standard for luxury vehicles—4 years/50,000 miles basic and drivetrain coverage—but less generous than those from Genesis (5 years/60,000 miles) and some Japanese brands[2]. The three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance matches what Genesis and Volvo offer[2]. BMW maintenance costs typically run higher than mainstream brands after the complimentary period expires.
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
The 2026 BMW X3 maintains its position as a compelling choice in the compact luxury SUV segment, delivering the balanced driving experience BMW has refined over two decades of building sporty crossovers[2]. Edmunds summarizes it well: "The X3 is the rare luxury vehicle that looks, feels and drives like it should cost more than it does"—except for the interior materials[1].
Car and Driver recommends the 30 xDrive for most buyers: "Considering the $15k gap, we think the xDrive30 represents the best value"[2]. Adding the Convenience package and M Sport package still saves thousands compared to the M50.
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