The fourth generation X3 gets an edgier vibe for customers looking at an upper-mid-sized premium-badged SUV. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Review

BMW's more boldly styled fourth generation X3 is a premium upper-mid-sized SUV that's a smarter and more sophisticated choice than the car it replaces, stacking up impressively against prestigiously-badged alternatives from Audi, Mercedes, Jaguar and Volvo in this sector. Like its rivals, dynamically targeted almost exclusively towards on-road use, it's another example of just how car-like a model of this kind can be.

Background

After years of evolution, this fourth generation BMW X3 gets a dose of revolution - on the more boldly-styled surface anyway. Underneath, things are rather different, this G45-era model continuing with the CLAR WE architecture of its predecessor and a familiar-looking range of combustion engines. Only combustion engines as it happens: the now-departed old Chinese-built electric iX3 will be reborn as a separately-platformed model based around the even more radical Neue Klasse X concept design. The X3 is a hugely important car for BMW to get right, the previous three generations having amassed over 3.5 million global sales. The first two designs, the E83 of 2003 and the F25 of 2010, occupied market territory for more compact family SUVs now covered by the X1. The third generation G01 model of 2017 shifted up-market, a car that (like its predecessor and this MK4 model) is mainly assembled in the US at Spartanburg, South Carolina; only the MK1 X3 was European-built (in Graz, Austria). In this G45 range, only the PHEV version hails from a different factory - Rosslyn in South Africa.

Driving Experience

Though this fourth generation X3 is combustion-based, BMW hasn't spent too much time altering the previous model's engine line-up. The two main changes are predictable ones; more EV range for the Plug-in Hybrid xDrive30e (which was embarrassingly short in that department before). And greater output for the powerful six cylinder 'M-lite' petrol model, now badged 'X3 M50'. More surprising perhaps is that diesel drive, dumped for the 3 Series model this car is based on, retains its place here, the 20d xDrive with a 197hp unit, 2.0-litres in size, like all four cylinder X3s are. There's a six cylinder diesel too, the 303hp X3 40d xDrive, which makes 62mph in just 5.4s. You're more likely though, to be pointed towards one of the 2.0-litre petrol models. Either the base 20 xDrive, which has a 48V mild hybrid 208hp petrol unit. Or the considerably pricier 30e xDrive, which pairs the same engine with a now-much larger 22.3kWh battery pack that powers an electric motor boosting total output to 299hp. EV range jumps to 56 miles. That only leaves the aforementioned petrol M50 xDrive, for now the flagship model until the M3-based X3 Competition variant arrives. The M50's twin turbo B58 unit should be fast enough for most, tuned to 398hp, spiriting the car to 62mph in 4.6s. Have the drive dynamics across the range been updated? BMW says so. There's a lighter, stiffer structure with a wider rear axle and an almost completely redesigned suspension set-up (double-joint strut front axle suspension and 5-link rear). Adaptive damping continues as an option, but the brand has stopped short of fitting the air suspension and 4-wheel steering systems you'll find in some rivals. It wants these to be the preserve of the larger, more profitable X5. You should also notice more accurate steering, the old dual-pinion rack swapped for a new belt-driven set-up. The maximum permitted trailer load is 2,500 kilograms, depending on the model variant.

Design and Build

Well this is certainly a bolder-looking kind of X3, fully conversant with BMW's latest rather divisive design language. It certainly makes the previous version look rather conservative. And it's bigger too - 34mm longer (at 4,755mm) and 29mm wider (at 1,920mm). Plus (unhelpfully you might think for an SUV) it now sits 25mm lower to emphasise the lower roof and sportier silhouette. There are sleeker LED headlights flanking kidney grilles that can be specified with glowing surrounds. At the rear, there's a more sculpted tailgate and the number plate has been relocated to the bumper. Wheel sizes are between 18 and 21-inches. The interior is an equally big step forward from the previous generation model, but you won't be surprised by it if you've tried any of the brand's other more recent models. The same large curved screen familiar from those reappears again here, incorporating a 12.3-inch driver's instrument display and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen. The latter runs the brand's latest OS9-generation infotainment system, though it can still be controlled by a rotary knob on the console, above which is an illuminated touch panel. Climate control is now adjusted by the kind of haptic 'Interaction Bar' we've lately seen on 5 and 7 Series models. The steering wheel and gear selector have both been redesigned as part of the more sustainably-trimmed cabin's more contemporary feel. Interior ambience lighting changes with drive mode and there's the option of an upgraded Harmon Kardon sound system. Rear seat space is much as before - comfortable for a couple of adults but not ideal for three. There's a 20-litre increase in boot capacity though - to 570-litres with conventionally-engined models, extending to 1,700-litres with the seats folded. With the xDrive30e PHEV, the figures fall to 460-litres and 1,600-litres.

Market and Model

Prices open at just under £50,000 for the 20 xDrive: you'll need around £51,000 for the 20d xDrive. There's quite a price jump for the 30e xDrive petrol PHEV - to just over £57,000. And the M50 xDrive requires around £68,500 from you. These prices represent a bit of a step up from before but at least you get more kit for your money. Standard features across the range include three-zone automatic climate control, acoustic glazing, 'Comfort Access' keyless entry, automatic tailgate operation, an electric folding mechanism for the exterior mirrors, and the 'BMW Live Cockpit Plus' twin-screen cabin set-up, complete with the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system. BMW also includes ambient lighting featuring a Welcome and Goodbye Animation and a tray including wireless charging function for compatible smartphones.  The optional 'BMW Live Cockpit Professional' package adds a head-up display, and also an Augmented View function in the control display. Other optional equipment packs include the 'Comfort Package' which features lumbar support, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, 'Travel & Comfort System' front seat back attachments and Adaptive LED Headlights. The 'Comfort Plus Package' adds sun blinds for the rear side windows, active seat ventilation in the front and seat heating in the rear. Also found on the options list are a fixed panoramic glass sunroof, steering wheel heating, sun protection glass in the rear and a pre-heating function. The X3 30e xDrive comes with the BMW IconicSounds Electric for special sound effects.

Cost of Ownership

BMW isn't developing any more combustion engines but it's doing its best to improve efficiency on the fossil-fuelled units it already has. The four cylinder 48V mild hybrid petrol engine used by the 20 xDrive model is from the latest generation of BMW Group modular engines and delivers up to 40.9mpg on the combined cycle and up to 156g/km of CO2 emissions. As usual with mild hybrid tech, there's a tiny battery that stores energy from regenerative braking, which is then used to aid acceleration and run the engine stop start system. The 20d xDrive manages up to 48.7mpg and up to 153g/km - a CO2 figure that drops to 177g/km for the 40d xDrive. And the 30e xDrive PHEV is rated at up to 313.9mpg and 21g/km, with up to 56 miles of EV range. Unusually, BMW has also given us an mpg figure for this Plug-in Hybrid model when the batteries are depleted: this is 39.2mpg. Its Combined Charging Unit enables AC charging at 11kW as standard. The Plug-in Hybrid model also comes prepared for smart charging with the brand's Connected Home Charging option. Finally, the M50 xDrive is rated at up to 36.7mpg and 175g/km. On to the warranty package. BMW's warranty only lasts for three years but it includes an Emergency breakdown service and at least it isn't mileage limited - unlike the comparable package you'd get as standard with a rival Audi. You can of course extent the warranty with either monthly or annual payments. There's a three year paintwork warranty and the usual 12 year anti-corrosion warranty.

Summary

BMW has had a lot to do with the rise in popularity of mid-sized premium SUVs, having pioneered this segment back in 2003. Rivals have grabbed the headlines since, but with this fourth generation model, the Bavarians are out to redefine what a car of this kind should be. In many ways, this car does just that. Yes it's true that it doesn't offer much that's radically different to what we've seen before in this class, but everything it does do is so complete and polished that it's hard not to admire the end result. Probably the most significant thing about this redesigned G45-era model is that it's given the X3 a luxury demeanour it lacked before, both in terms of its streetside presence and its classy cabin. It really is now the junior X5 we were always promised and quite a number of owners of that larger model might well be tempted to downsize into this one. It's also good enough to drive to ensure that up-sizing 3 Series drivers won't feel short-changed. Of course, no BMW X-model will take you very far off road - and this one certainly can't - but it doesn't deliver that kind of capability because it doesn't need to. In summary, we think that buyers in this sector who can afford the asking price should find that this rejuvenated X3 adds up very nicely indeed. A vehicle this good ought to speak for itself. Try one and we think you'll find that it does.

Body Glass

Rear wiper

Heated rear window

Heated windscreen washer jets

Rain sensor with automatic headlight activation

Electric window trap release and convenient opening/closing feature

Windscreen wipers

Brakes

Cornering brake control (CBC)

Dynamic brake control

Electromechanical parking brake

Brake energy regeneration

Brake drying

Anti-lock braking system (ABS)

Front and rear disc brakes

Braking readiness

Trailer stability control

Brake assist

Integrated braking system

Automatic hold function

Post Crash Collision Warning with braking function

Carpets/Rugs

Floor mats in velour

Chassis/Suspension

Dynamic stability control

Multiple control arm rear axle

Two-joint strut-type front axle with tension strut

Driver Aids

Servotronic system

Variable sport steering

Cruise control with brake function + speed limiter

Attentiveness assist

Reversing assist camera

Parking assistant

Drive off assistant

Active guard professional

My Mode - Personal, Efficient, Sport, Relax, Expressive

Flat tyre monitor

Driver Convenience

Driving Assistant Plus Preparation

Automatic operation of tailgate

Driver Information

BMW Online services

BMW Teleservices

Condition based service

Brake pad wear indicator

BMW ConnectedDrive online services

Language version English

BMW iDrive

Driving Mirrors

M-specific Exterior mirrors

Mirror triangle in black high-gloss

Electric adjustable and heated door mirrors

Mirror base and mirror blade in black high-gloss

Entertainment

DAB tuner

Personal eSim

Exterior Body Features

Rear side wing doors

BMW badge on front and rear

B-pillar trim panel in black high-gloss

M high-gloss shadowline

Locking of the doors

BMW M-specific radiator grille with horizontal bars in Dark Silver and M logo

BMW M-specific front/rear bumpers and side sills

Door handles flush to the surface with lock barrel on driver's side

Side window frame in black high-gloss

4 tailpipe tips

Exterior Lights

Reversing light

Daytime running lights

High beam assistant

LED tail lights

Dynamic brake lights

LED rear lights

Headlight beam throw control

LED 3rd brake light

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

3 zone automatic air conditioning

Interior Features

Anthracite headlining

Glove compartment

Multifunction steering wheel

Luggage compartment separating net

Four grab handles integrated in roof lining

Through loading system

M sport leather steering wheel

Wireless charging tray

Footrest and pedals in black plastic

2 x USB Type C ports for charging and data transmission (front centre console) and 2 x USB Type C ports for charging (rear centre console)

Rear side armrests integrated into door trim

Three upper retaining strap clips integrated into the rear panels of the seat backrests

Steering column adjustment

Two front cupholders and two in the rear center armrest

Front centre console trim in black high-gloss

Front armrest with integrated control panel

Selector lever with toggle operation

12v power socket in front centre console and luggage compartment

Interior Lights

Ambient lighting

Packs

Driving assistant package - X3

Connected pro package - X3

Interior and exterior mirror package - X3

Safety

Warning triangle

3 point seatbelts

Tyre pressure sensor

Head airbags

Child locks on rear doors

BMW emergency call

Crash Sensor - activation of central locking release, hazard warning light and interior lighting

Central airbag

Airbag deployment is controlled with respect to the intensity and scope

Driver and front passenger front and side airbags

Seats

Front sports seats

3 rear headrests

Front head restraints

Electric adjustable seats with memory function

3 seat bench in 2nd row

40:20:40 split folding rear seat with loading system

Front passenger seat

i-Size / ISOFIX attachment points on both outer rear seats, with covers in black

Security

Locking wheel bolts

Comfort access system

Alarm system

Closing system with central locking

Start/stop button with keyless motor start with acoustic drive

Transmission

Steptronic transmission with gearshift paddles

Vanity Mirrors

Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors

Wheels - Spare

Tyre repair kit

Emissions - ICE

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium: 145

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 155

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 160

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 155

CO: 0.04

NOx: 0.03

HC+NOx: 0.024

Particles: 0.0003

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High: 161

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High: 132

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low: 206

Engine and Drive Train

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 84

Cylinders: 4

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 16

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: COMMON RAIL

Catalytic Convertor: No

Engine Layout: NORTH SOUTH

Compression Ratio: 16.5:1

Transmission: SEMI-AUTO

Gears: 8 SPEED

Engine Code: B47D20O2

CC: 1995

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 90

Fuel Consumption - ICE

WLTP - MPG - Medium: 51.4

WLTP - MPG - Low: 35.8

WLTP - MPG - High: 56.5

WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 46.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 6.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 5.9

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 6.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 5.9

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 47.9

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 47.9

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 46.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 7.9

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 5.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 5

General

Coin Description: N

Service Interval Mileage: 18000

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 33E

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Based On ID: N

Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3

Coin Series: M Sport

Special Order: 0

Special Edition: 0

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 999999

Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 6

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 24

Badge Power: 197

Badge Engine CC: 2.0

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

AdBlue: No

Generation Mark: 4

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: 0

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 7.7

Engine Power - PS: No

Top Speed: 134

Engine Power - BHP: 197

Engine Torque - MKG: 40.8

Engine Power - RPM: 4000

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 145

Engine Torque - RPM: 1500

Engine Torque - NM: 400

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 295

Test Cycles

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

Tyres

Wheel Style: Y SPOKE

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Tyre Size Front: 245/50 R19

Wheel Type: 19" ALLOY

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Tyre Size Rear: 245/50 R19

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 4755

Width: 1920

Wheelbase: 2865

Width (including mirrors): 2132

Height: 1660

Height (including roof rails): N

Weight and Capacities

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 570

No. of Seats: 5

Max. Loading Weight: 645

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 2500

Minimum Kerbweight: 1890

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 60

Max. Roof Load: 100

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2535

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1700

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 12.2

Body Glass

Sun protection glass

Brakes

M Sport brakes with dark blue calipers

Chassis/Suspension

Adaptive suspension

Embellishment Trims

Luxury instrument panel

BMW Individual Magnolia fine-wood trim with fine print

Exterior Body Features

Metallic paint

BMW Individual Metallic paint

Fixed panoramic glass sunroof

Exterior Lights

Adaptive LED Headlights

Interior Features

Individuval Merino leather upholstery

Heated steering wheel

Econeer upholstery

Veganza leather upholstery

Packs

BMW Iconic Glow exterior package - X3

Comfort package - X3

Comfort plus pack - X3

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Dune grey

Metallic - Fire red

Metallic - Brooklyn grey

Metallic - Arctic race blue

Metallic - Sophisto grey

Metallic - Black sapphire

Paint - Solid

Solid - Alpine white

Paint - Special

BMW Individual metallic paint - Tanzanite blue

Towing

Towbar

Trim - Leather

Econeer upholstery - Vivid Grey bicolour

Alcantara/Veganza leather upholstery - Black

Veganza perforated and quilted leather - Espresso Brown

Veganza perforated and quilted leather - Calm Beige

Veganza perforated and quilted leather - Black

Individuval Merino leather - Amber with Atlas grey

Individuval Merino leather - Black with Atlas grey

Wheels - Alloy

20" M Double spoke diamond polished cast aluminium alloy wheel in Jet black - Style 1036M Bicolour

20" M Aerodynamic wheels diamond polished cast aluminium alloy wheel in Jet black - Style 906 M Bicolour

21" BMW Individual Aerodynamic wheels diamond polished cast aluminium alloy wheel in Jet black - Style 910 I Bicolour

21" M Star spoke wheels diamond polished cast aluminium alloy wheel in Jet black matt - Style 1037 M Bicolour