2021 BMW X3 Hybrid
2021 BMW X3 Hybrid Review
- Smooth ride and comfortable seats
- Wide variety of standard and optional features for personalization
- Roomy interior for both front and rear passengers
- Limited real-world EV range
- Lower overall fuel economy than the gas-only X3
- Questionable value proposition of the plug-in hybrid
- Many advanced safety features are now standard
- Android Auto is finally available
- A few previously optional features are now standard
- Part of the third X3 generation introduced for 2018
Our verdict | |
The BMW X3 plug-in hybrid is a bit of an odd duck. On one hand, it's more expensive on paper and thirstier than the gas-only X3, and observed EV-only range falls short of EPA estimates. Conversely, the hybrid is quicker and might cost less if you qualify for all the available tax rebates. The hybrid's value proposition is questionable, but the underlying X3 platform ensures the xDrive30e's excellence compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs. | |
How does the X3 drive? | |
Even though its gasoline engine has less horsepower than the gas-only X3's engine, the plug-in hybrid's electric motor provides extra boost for an improved 0-60 mph time. The sprint comes in just 6.1 seconds, nearly a second quicker than the standard xDrive30i. Our tester was equipped with the M Sport and Dynamic Handling packages, plus summer performance tires — an unusual combination for a hybrid, but one that transforms the X3 from mild-mannered SUV to adept canyon-carver at the press of a button. The brake pedal is light and easy to operate, with an imperceptible handoff from regenerative to friction brakes. The summer tires help deliver an exceptional 110-foot distance in our simulated-panic stop from 60 mph. The steering is a little too light in Comfort mode, with Sport firming it up nicely. | |
How comfortable is the X3? | |
The front seats deliver the comfort and support needed for long stints at the wheel. A wide range of adjustments ensure a good fit for almost everyone. On bumpy roads, our test X3 had a fairly busy ride quality, which we partially attribute to the optional 20-inch wheels. The solid level of control means you feel impacts, but they don't reverberate through the cabin or bounce your head around. The X3 PHEV is silent in EV mode, with only a modest amount of tire noise to keep you company. The engine isn't loud when it kicks on, but putting it into Sport mode makes the exhaust a little more boisterous. It sounds great for a four-cylinder. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The X3's cabin is spacious and smartly arranged. The large doors translate to big openings, and the sills are low enough so that you don't have to step up into the cabin. Various driver's seat and steering wheel adjustments ensure all instrumentation falls easily into view. There's plenty of headroom for all passengers, while foot- and legroom are adequate for even tall passengers. Visibility is fantastic all around. There are no usability concerns since most buttons are within easy reach. The iDrive 7 infotainment system is complex, but only because of the breadth of its customizability. Of note are the preset buttons below the front air vents. They can be programmed to store radio presets, destinations or even oft-visited menus. That's a nifty feature. | |
How’s the tech? | |
All the latest tech offerings are present on the X3, but they're often on the optional features list. That's especially true of the advanced driving aids — only forward collision warning is standard. You'll have to pay extra for equipment such as lane departure mitigation and blind-spot monitoring, but once you do, you'll find that most systems work well. The X3 excels in other areas too. The optional Harman Kardon audio system doesn't cost very much, but it delivers clear, punchy sound and features an equalizer for customizing your sound preferences. To connect your phone, the X3 comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. | |
How’s the storage? | |
The X3 xDrive30e has less cargo space than the non-hybrid model — 27.2 cubic feet versus 28.7 cubes — due to its raised cargo floor. Still, there's more room in the back than most small crossovers. The seats fold flat, though you might have to fold the headrests to clear the front seatback. Front storage is plentiful, with a decent-size bin underneath the armrest and large door pockets. The rear door pockets are similarly accommodating. Car seat anchors are clearly marked, though you will have to remove the cargo cover to attach the tethers. As with the standard X3, the xDrive30e is rated to tow up to 4,400 pounds when properly equipped. Rival plug-ins are rated at 3,500 pounds. | |
How economical is the X3? | |
The EPA estimates the xDrive30e can travel up to 18 miles in EV-only mode before the four-cylinder motor kicks on. We were only able to travel 13.8 miles on our 115-mile evaluation route before running out of electricity. In gas-only mode, the X3 is estimated to earn 24 mpg combined. Curiously, this is 2 mpg lower than the non-hybrid xDrive30i. The hybrid's smaller gas tank means you also get about 100 fewer miles of range before you have to fill up. That said, on our driving loop, we achieved a gas-only average of 28.4 mpg, compared to the 27.7 mpg earned on a previously tested xDrive30i. Fuel economy gains versus the xDrive30i are partially attributable to individual driving style and traffic patterns since our xDrive30e test was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic with less traffic than usual. Our conclusion is that upgrading to the xDrive30e offers minute financial benefits, if any. | |
Is the X3 a good value? | |
With a starting price of $49,545, the xDrive30e is $4,600 more expensive than the non-hybrid xDrive30i. But here's the rub: If you qualify for them, federal and state rebates might make the plug-in slightly less expensive. It's hard to say which version makes more financial sense, especially once you start weighing the hybrid's lower fuel efficiency against charging costs. Other benefits, such as HOV stickers, might tip the scales in the plug-in's favor. Basic and powertrain warranties line up with those for other luxury crossovers at four years/50,000 miles. BMW covers the first three scheduled maintenance services up to 36,000 miles, which is more generous than other automakers. | |
Wildcard | |
Even as a compact SUV, the X3 relays driving excitement through its steering, handling and engine sound. These attributes make it a bit more entertaining to snake up a mountain road or barrel through a freeway on-ramp than other vehicles in the segment. We appreciate that BMW extends its performance upgrades to its plug-in hybrid; Volvo and Mercedes do not offer sporty enhancements for their PHEVs. The X3 is a well-appointed and nicely constructed SUV that should live up to anyone's expectations for a luxury crossover. It also gets points for being one of the few small luxury crossover PHEVs. Bringing down this score are the hybrid's dubious fuel-cost savings. | |
The 2021 BMW X3 is a well-rounded small luxury SUV. Whether it's practicality, safety, comfort, technology or performance you're interested in, the X3 delivers. It's a mainstay of BMW's lineup, giving you more room than the X1 and X2 while keeping the price reasonable compared to the larger X5.
2021 BMW X3 Hybrid pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Features & Specs
| xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD 2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $49,600 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | N/A |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite X3 safety features:
- Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Maintains a set distance between the X3 and the car in front. Can bring the X3 to a stop and resume speed when the car in front moves.
- Adaptive Brake Lights
- Brightens the brake lights to indicate a sudden stop and flashes them to indicate an emergency stop.
- Automated Parking system
- Guides the X3 into a vacant parallel parking spot with minimal driver intervention.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 4 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 17.2% |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
BMW X3 vs. the competition
BMW X3 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLC has been a top pick for a while, and for good reason. It strikes a better balance between performance and comfort than the X3, and its cabin is the most luxurious in the segment. But the BMW has the GLC beat when it comes to cargo capacity and fuel economy.
BMW X3 vs. Volvo XC60
The Volvo XC60 is another one of our class favorites, especially for its unique and elegantly simple Scandinavian design. Since it's a Volvo, the XC60 comes with a long list of standard safety features that you'd have to pay extra for in some rivals. The X3, however, is a lot more fun to drive and has an easier-to-use infotainment system.
BMW X3 vs. Acura RDX
The Acura RDX is highly regarded in the small luxury SUV class for its spacious passenger and cargo areas, sporty handling and relatively affordable price. The only engine offered is a four-cylinder, but it is more potent than its rivals. Unlike the X3, the RDX's options are bundled in larger packages, which may force you to get some options you'd rather not. The BMW's infotainment system is also easier to use.
FAQ
Is the BMW X3 a good car?
What's new in the 2021 BMW X3?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 BMW X3:
- Many advanced safety features are now standard
- Android Auto is finally available
- A few previously optional features are now standard
- Part of the third X3 generation introduced for 2018
Is the BMW X3 reliable?
Is the 2021 BMW X3 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 BMW X3?
The least-expensive 2021 BMW X3 is the 2021 BMW X3 xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $49,600.
Other versions include:
- xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $49,600
What are the different models of BMW X3?
More about the 2021 BMW X3
2021 BMW X3 Hybrid Overview
The 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid is offered in the following styles: xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A).
What do people think of the 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 X3 Hybrid 1.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 X3 Hybrid.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 X3 Hybrid featuring deep dives into trim levels including xDrive30e, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid?
2021 BMW X3 Hybrid xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A)
The 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $52,995. The average price paid for a new 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) is trending $4,707 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,707 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $48,288.
The average savings for the 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) is 8.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 40 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2021 BMW X3 Hybrids are available in my area?
2021 BMW X3 Hybrid Listings and Inventory
There are currently 74 new 2021 [object Object] X3 Hybrids listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $52,955 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 [object Object] X3 Hybrid for sale near you.
Can't find a new 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid X3 Hybrid you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new BMW X3 for sale - 1 great deals out of 5 listings starting at $14,109.
Find a new BMW for sale - 6 great deals out of 8 listings starting at $20,995.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid and all available trim types: xDrive30e. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out BMW lease specials