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

Can BMW’s £50k sports coupe beat the Audi RS3? – car pictures of the week
Audi RS3 and BMW M240
News

Can BMW’s £50k sports coupe beat the Audi RS3? – car pictures of the week

In the current issue of evo, we test BMW’s updated M240 against the Audi RS3 – these are our favourite shots
18 Jul 2026
My Audi S8 can’t make me hate it, even if its safety systems are often terrible
Audi S8 – interior
Long term tests

My Audi S8 can’t make me hate it, even if its safety systems are often terrible

ADAS systems can be the bane of one’s existence in modern cars, but they can’t take the decadent shine off our long-term limo
16 Jul 2026
Mercedes-Benz A-class review – the Audi A3-rivalling hatchback Mercedes can’t afford to kill
Mercedes-Benz A-class front
In-depth reviews

Mercedes-Benz A-class review – the Audi A3-rivalling hatchback Mercedes can’t afford to kill

The current A-class is now almost a decade old. Happily, it still looks and feels relatively fresh
16 Jul 2026