Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW X3 review - strong engines help make this an impressive SUV - Design

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 X3 has much more in common with its X5 bigger brother than the original model did. It’s an attractive SUV and features BMW’s signature kidney grille, giving the X3 a commanding presence. M Sport models look more aggressive with lower bumpers, gloss-black trim and larger alloy wheels.

At the rear, LED tail-lights are standard. The tailgate opens to reveal a low loading space, which can be accessed hands-free if you choose the optional comfort access package. The rearmost windows are angled up at the bottom in classic BMW SUV fashion. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

Despite solid aesthetic foundations though, the X3 does look dated compared to new rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. An all new model promises to take on board the lastest BMW design cues, but till then, the X3 will struggle to make the other parents at your kids football match look over in envy.  

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

This Lotus-inspired sports car has 429bhp and real driver focus: meet the SC01
Small Sports Car Company SC01
News

This Lotus-inspired sports car has 429bhp and real driver focus: meet the SC01

The Small Sports Car Company SC01 has pipped Caterham and Tesla to the post as an electric sports designed to deliver genuine driver thrills
29 Jul 2026
BMW M3 Touring (E46) review – driving the perfect super estate that never was
BMW M3 E46 Touring front
Reviews

BMW M3 Touring (E46) review – driving the perfect super estate that never was

BMW toyed with the idea of an E46 M3 Touring, making just one prototype. A UK company has picked up where it left off
30 Jul 2026
I put budget tyres to the test in the wet, and the results were terrifying
Cheap tyres
Opinion

I put budget tyres to the test in the wet, and the results were terrifying

Skimping on tyres may save you a few pounds, but at what cost, ponders Barker
30 Jul 2026