2020 BMW X3

2020 X3 Photos
The idea of a BMW SUV used to be provocative. There were those aghast that the brand that brought the world lithe-handling sport sedans would stoop to creating a big-and-tall family hauler. Then again, there were those delighting that the big-and-tall family hauler they desired could be made by the brand famous for lithe-handling sport sedans. Importantly, the subsequent "SAVs," as BMW called them, generally delivered on being zestier than the typical SUV. We share this little history lesson because it's awfully hard to think of ways the 2020 BMW X3 is provocative or at least more memorable than competitors. What was once distinctive and zesty is now best described as BMW's staple people mover in a large, ultra-competitive segment. Though it still appeals more to those who favor driving engagement and performance, especially the 473-horsepower X3 M, rival SUVs have matched or bettered its zest. And while the X3's cabin is attractive and put together using premium materials, it lacks the elegance of interiors offered by Volvo and Mercedes-Benz, while not quite capturing the more futuristic aesthetic embraced by the likes of Audi or Acura. Basically, the X3 is a nice luxury SUV; a solid, well-rounded choice. That it's not more than that is both surprising and disappointing given what we used to expect from BMW SUVs. What's new for 2020? The biggest news for the 2020 X3 lineup is the addition of three new variants: The impressive xDrive30e plug-in hybrid and the high-performance X3 M and M Competition that offer 473 and 503 horsepower, respectively. BMW also made LED headlights standard on the base X3 sDrive30i model and shifted around some tech and connectivity packages. What's the interior and in-car technology like? The BMW X3’s interior boasts an attractive, clean design and is assembled with premium materials. However, even when extensively optioned, it doesn’t quite rise to the obvious luxury of what you’ll see in a Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the ultra-cool modern design of the Volvo XC60, nor the futuristic spaceship aesthetic of an Audi Q5 or Acura RDX. Frankly, it's a bit dull.   BMW offers three-zone climate control, 10-way power front seats with memory, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard equipment. All models use the latest version of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a redundant rotary control knob. Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard, however BMW does not offer Android Auto integration. Those who want additional tech can add integrated navigation, which brings with it 10.25-inch widescreen display, a HUD, gesture-based interior controls and digital cluster. The base upholstery is synthetic leather (typical for luxury brands), but leather can be optioned from the base sDrive30i model on up and special variants such as the M models get unique interior options to further set them apart from their peers. BMW’s front seats offer ample support and adjustment and can be had with both heating and ventilation; rear seat heaters and a heated steering wheel are also available. How big is it? As mentioned earlier, the BMW X3 …
Full Review
The idea of a BMW SUV used to be provocative. There were those aghast that the brand that brought the world lithe-handling sport sedans would stoop to creating a big-and-tall family hauler. Then again, there were those delighting that the big-and-tall family hauler they desired could be made by the brand famous for lithe-handling sport sedans. Importantly, the subsequent "SAVs," as BMW called them, generally delivered on being zestier than the typical SUV. We share this little history lesson because it's awfully hard to think of ways the 2020 BMW X3 is provocative or at least more memorable than competitors. What was once distinctive and zesty is now best described as BMW's staple people mover in a large, ultra-competitive segment. Though it still appeals more to those who favor driving engagement and performance, especially the 473-horsepower X3 M, rival SUVs have matched or bettered its zest. And while the X3's cabin is attractive and put together using premium materials, it lacks the elegance of interiors offered by Volvo and Mercedes-Benz, while not quite capturing the more futuristic aesthetic embraced by the likes of Audi or Acura. Basically, the X3 is a nice luxury SUV; a solid, well-rounded choice. That it's not more than that is both surprising and disappointing given what we used to expect from BMW SUVs. What's new for 2020? The biggest news for the 2020 X3 lineup is the addition of three new variants: The impressive xDrive30e plug-in hybrid and the high-performance X3 M and M Competition that offer 473 and 503 horsepower, respectively. BMW also made LED headlights standard on the base X3 sDrive30i model and shifted around some tech and connectivity packages. What's the interior and in-car technology like? The BMW X3’s interior boasts an attractive, clean design and is assembled with premium materials. However, even when extensively optioned, it doesn’t quite rise to the obvious luxury of what you’ll see in a Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the ultra-cool modern design of the Volvo XC60, nor the futuristic spaceship aesthetic of an Audi Q5 or Acura RDX. Frankly, it's a bit dull.   BMW offers three-zone climate control, 10-way power front seats with memory, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard equipment. All models use the latest version of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a redundant rotary control knob. Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard, however BMW does not offer Android Auto integration. Those who want additional tech can add integrated navigation, which brings with it 10.25-inch widescreen display, a HUD, gesture-based interior controls and digital cluster. The base upholstery is synthetic leather (typical for luxury brands), but leather can be optioned from the base sDrive30i model on up and special variants such as the M models get unique interior options to further set them apart from their peers. BMW’s front seats offer ample support and adjustment and can be had with both heating and ventilation; rear seat heaters and a heated steering wheel are also available. How big is it? As mentioned earlier, the BMW X3 …
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Retail Price

$41,950 - $55,900 MSRP / Window Sticker Price
Engine 2.0L I-4, 3.0L I-6
MPG Up to 25 city / 29 highway
Seating 5 Passengers
Transmission 8-spd auto w/OD, 8-spd w/OD
Power 248 - 382 hp
Drivetrain rear-wheel, xDrive all wheel
Curb Weight 3,931 - 4,317 lbs
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