Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW X3 review - strong engines help make this an impressive SUV - MPG and running costs

Do you really need an X5?

Evo rating
RRP
from £33,945
  • Decent to drive, strong diesel engines, good interior tech
  • Bested by Macan dynamically, numb steering, slightly stiff ride, dated interior design

The xDrive20d is the most frugal model in the X3 line-up. According to official figures, the four-cylinder engine delivers a combined 55.4mpg with CO2 emissions of 135g/km when paired with a manual gearbox. Economy improves on automatic models, which can achieve 57.6mpg and 129g/km. Opting for an M Sport model sees a slightly less efficient 52.3mpg and 142g/km (54.3/136 auto).

Advertisement - Article continues below

The xDrive30d manages 49.6mpg and 149g/km (47.9/156 MSport) and the most powerful 35d gets 47.1mpg and 157g/km. BIK rates range from 23-29%.

To help owners get the most miles-per-tank, the X3 is fitted with a number of tricks from BMW’s Efficient Dynamics programme. There’s ECO PRO mode which minimises the fuel used when pulling away, automatic stop-start and the sat-nav is able to recommend the most fuel efficient route. Aerodynamic wheels are also fitted which reduce rolling resistance. 

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

The BMW M2 CS should have been amazing, so why was it the biggest letdown?
BMW M2 CS
Opinion

The BMW M2 CS should have been amazing, so why was it the biggest letdown?

Meaden found his perfect two-car garage at this year's evo Car of the Year, but it doesn't feature Munich's latest
31 Dec 2025
Was it a mistake to include a Land Rover in a test amongst flagship supercars?
Octa
Opinion

Was it a mistake to include a Land Rover in a test amongst flagship supercars?

The lineup for this year's biggest performance car test was varied to say the least, and one contender stood out from the get-go
28 Dec 2025
The major modern flaws that even today's greatest V12 supercars suffer with
Vanquish and 12 Cilindri
Opinion

The major modern flaws that even today's greatest V12 supercars suffer with

Even one of the best eCoty lineups in years didn't escape the problems inherent in modern cars
30 Dec 2025