Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW X3 review - strong engines help make this an impressive SUV - Interior and tech

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

On the inside, the X3 is spacious and well-made. There are plenty of soft-touch plastics and the overall finish is high quality. Controls and instruments are lifted from other BMW models and are angled towards the driver.

The driving position is good with plenty of adjustment for the seat and steering wheel. Rear space is also generous, although the transmission tunnel makes the middle-rear seat uncomfortable for adult passengers. The boot has a capacity of 550 litres and can be increased to 1600 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

Advertisement - Article continues below

>Read our BMW X5 review

The X3 is well appointed in standard SE trim but there are a range of options available. The professional media package (£900) adds large screen satellite navigation with BMW online services and live traffic reports. Individual options include: heads-up display (£895), panoramic sunroof (£1190), xenon headlights (£610) and surround view (£530).

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is more powerful and cheaper than BMW's M3
Mercedes-AMG CLA 45
News

Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is more powerful and cheaper than BMW's M3

The CLA 45 is no more expensive than the old A45 but with 671bhp, is obviously way more potent
28 Aug 2026
BMW M240i v Audi RS3 – 400bhp German stars fight it out
Audi RS3 and BMW M240
Group tests

BMW M240i v Audi RS3 – 400bhp German stars fight it out

BMW's M240i is one of the best value performance cars on the market. But is it worth the saving over an RS3?
30 Aug 2026
Ferrari 458 (2009 - 2015) review – the last and best supercar of its kind
Ferrari 458 Italia
In-depth reviews

Ferrari 458 (2009 - 2015) review – the last and best supercar of its kind

Few supercars have aged so gracefully; the Ferrari 458 remains thrilling, engaging and deeply desirable today
28 Aug 2026