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

Peugeot’s new petrol engine swaps belts for chains to improve reliability
Peugeot Turbo 100
News

Peugeot’s new petrol engine swaps belts for chains to improve reliability

New engine isn’t performance-oriented but does address some reliability issues around so-called ‘wet belts’, swapping them out altogether for chains
16 Mar 2026
Car makers are U-turning on EVs but car buyers are going to pay the price
Plug-in hybrid Lamborghini
Opinion

Car makers are U-turning on EVs but car buyers are going to pay the price

While the combustion engines we love have a stay of execution, the future won't be all sunshine and rainbows for car enthusiasts
17 Mar 2026
The new Jaguar GT is lovely to drive, but that’s not enough for people to buy it
Jaguar GT
Opinion

The new Jaguar GT is lovely to drive, but that’s not enough for people to buy it

The Jaguar GT has the hallmarks of a deeply impressive luxury saloon. Whether it can turn the tide on slow demand for premium EVs is another matter
11 Mar 2026