Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid
Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid





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BMW X3 model years
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2021 BMW X3 Hybrid Review

byTravis Langness
Reviews Editor
Travis Langness has worked in the automotive industry since 2011. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.
Pros
- Smooth ride and comfortable seats
- Wide variety of standard and optional features for personalization
- Roomy interior for both front and rear passengers
Cons
- Limited real-world EV range
- Lower overall fuel economy than the gas-only X3
- Questionable value proposition of the plug-in hybrid
What's new
- 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
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 X3 Highlights
Plug-in Hybrid
- EPA Electric Range
- 17 miles
- Combined MPG
- 24 MPG
- Cost to Drive
- $166/month
- Charging time
- 3.0 hours
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- all wheel drive
- Engine Type
- Plug-in hybrid
- Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
BMW also gives you the option of making your X3 a little greener with the xDrive30e. It's a plug-in hybrid, which means it has a regular gasoline engine plus a hybrid system that you can charge using an external power supply. Charge up the hybrid battery and the X3 xDrive30e offers an EPA-estimated 18 miles of electric range. When it runs out of juice, it operates like a standard hybrid and uses its turbocharged four-cylinder engine to keep things moving.
If you're charging it up between daily commutes, this X3 hybrid might make a good deal of sense. Unfortunately, fuel economy is disappointing once you run out of electricity. The plug-in hybrid X3 gets an estimated 24 mpg, while the regular X3 (with all-wheel drive) gets 26 mpg. That, plus the higher price, makes the value proposition questionable. Check out our expert rating for our in-depth take on this plug-in X3 hybrid.
Edmunds Expert Rating
great
8.1/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
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.
Rated for you by America's best test team.
Performance
8.0/10
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.
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.
Comfort
8.0/10
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.
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.
Interior
8.5/10
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.
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.
Technology
8.0/10
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.
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.
Storage
8.0/10
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.
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.
Fuel Economy
6.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? 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.
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.
Value
7.5/10
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.
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
8.5/10
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 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.
Which X3 does Edmunds recommend?
In its plug-in hybrid trim, the X3 is only sold in one trim level, the xDrive30e. There are a number of options, however, and we recommend two specific option packages: the Convenience package and the Driving Assistance Professional package. If you're looking for a few more creature comforts, such as heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel, the Premium package is a nice addition too.
2021 BMW X3 models
The 2021 BMW X3 plug-in hybrid comes in only one trim, dubbed xDrive30e. It is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired to a plug-in hybrid system. Total output stands at 288 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Power is routed to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. According to BMW, fully charging the 12-kWh battery pack using a standard 120-volt outlet takes 11.5 hours. It only requires 3.5 hours at a Level 2 charging station.
xDrive30e
The X3 plug-in's sole trim packs a ton of features. These include:
- 18-inch wheels
- LED headlights
- Power tailgate
- Heated and power-folding mirrors
- Auto-dimming interior and driver's side exterior mirrors
- Three-zone climate control
- Driver-seat memory settings
- Sport seats with adjustable side bolsters
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Navigation system
- 10.25-inch touchscreen display
- 12-speaker audio system with satellite radio
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
The X3 also comes standard with:
- Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
- Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
As with all BMWs, a healthy list of optional packages are available, such as:
- Convenience package
- Four-way lumbar adjustment for front seats
- Keyless entry
- Panoramic sunroof
- Premium package
- Contents of the Convenience package
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line onto the windshield)
- Parking Assistance package
- Front and rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible behind or in front of the vehicle when parking)
- 360-degree camera (gives you a bird's-eye view of the car for tight parking situations)
- Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with no driver intervention)
- Executive package
- Contents of the Premium and Parking Assistance packages
- Hands-free cargo opener
- Gesture control (allows you to control certain aspects of the infotainment system by gesturing in the air)
- Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
- Driving Assistance Professional package
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the X3 and the car in front)
- A more advanced version of the forward collision mitigation system
- Dynamic Handling package
- Variable-ratio steering
- Upgraded brakes
- Adaptive suspension dampers
Some features included in the packages above can be ordered as stand-alone options. There are other options, but note that some require packages before they can be added. These include:
- 19-inch wheels
- 20-inch wheels with summer performance tires
- Leather upholstery
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system
- Wireless charging pad (paired with a Wi-Fi hotspot)
- Sound-reducing windshield and side windows
- Rear side-window sunshades
- Trailer hitch
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid.
5 star(69%)
4 star(7%)
3 star(10%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(14%)
29 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Volvo to BMW - great upgrade
wbm, 07/26/2021
2021 BMW X3 xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A)
We had a Volvo S60 Inscription - nice car, but small details, such as no roof rack, and small trunk after installing a spare tire mean that it was not suitable for long trips. We looked at the XC60 hybrid, but with no spare, it did not seem ready for camping trips (we did use the spare on the Volvo - it paid for itself first time when we had a flat on the way to the airport on an … interstate...). The BMW has run flat tires, which may not be optimal, but they at least allow one to get off a dangerous auto route when one has a flat.
We have now put in 2000 miles on short and long trips on the BMW. Overall, we found the BMW X3 hybrid with executive package to be more refined than the Volvo - great handling, lots of power, comfortable, quiet, nice sound system, android auto works so one can use google maps.
In terms of gas mileage, I assume the EPA 24 mpg comes from gas only. However, the hybrid system seems to work well, and without charging, we are getting consistently around 32 mpg (same as the S60, which is a sedan),
so the range in practice is about 420 miles. At home, we get around 18-20 miles per change on electric only, and so we rarely buy gas when not on a trip (got a Mustart charger that plugs into the dryer outlet - charging is 4 hours). Finally, as others have pointed out, the car has great safety numbers.
A Gripe: With the kick opening of trunk means the BMW hitch does not work, and one has to use a stealth hitch, which works well. However, with a bike rack installed, one has to be careful with both the kick opening (which can open and hit the rack), and backing up - need to turn off parking, otherwise car slams on brakes since it thinks the hitch is a wall. Since bikes stick out, the lane warning light is often on. Would be handy if there was bike rack detection or setting.
Overall, we are very happy with the car, and just have to learn to turn off the park assist when backing up with bikes...
5 out of 5 stars
Lovin' my x30e PHEV
BMW Appreciator, 02/22/2021
2021 BMW X3 xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A)
After years in sedans, I transitioned to an SUV. My 3rd BMW and I love how they drive, the 2021 x30e is even more fun. It's loaded with amenities and I'm having fun with the plugin. Got the Exec package and loving all features - ACC, electronics, LDW seems more like LKA on highway (not sure if that is a BMW thing), racing seats, heated front/rear, pano roof. It's quick, taut and … enjoyable. All in a smaller package so I can park it in front of my office and not feel self-conscious. A real winner.
5 out of 5 stars
Quick acceleration and great gas mileage
Rob, 05/15/2021
2021 BMW X3 xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A)
First BMW I've owned but very happy. Got the 2021 30e hybrid since it was some $1200 less than the 30i with tax credit. Gives a very quiet ride with nearly instant acceleration making it lots of fun to drive. Can pass cars and trucks on highway with easy, even crusing at 70+ mph. Have been getting 40-65 mpg on short trips (50-100 miles) without trying, but drops to low 30's on long … 200-400 mile trips. I hardly buy it any gas. Worried about its listed 320 mile limited range but it has been more like 350-425 so has not been an issue at all. Always get more than 20+ mile electric range. Very comfortable on longer drives. Bought in part due to its IIHS crash numbers which rank among the best. Got several options (parking assist, drivers assist pro, Premium package) which bumped the price up $6k but feel it was worth it. With 12k mileage, no issues. Perhaps the best car I ever bought. Quiet ride, fast when needed, nice interior plus great gas mileage. What's not to like?
3 out of 5 stars
Nice, but Build quality issues
Mart, 10/10/2021
2021 BMW X3 xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A)
3 months after purchasing a BMW3xe there was a significant rattle/ tapping somewhere in the vehicle. the dealer discovered the noise was coming from the sun roof. Now they have to take the entire sunroof out and replace it. This should not be happening with a 64K car. If I could go back in time I would get an Audi or Porsche instead, but this point even a Subaru would be better.
More about the 2021 BMW X3
Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid Overview
The Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid is offered in the following styles: xDrive30e 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A). The Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.
What's a good price on a Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid?
Price comparisons for Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid trim styles:
- The Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid xDrive30e is priced between $43,488 and$50,998 with odometer readings between 13293 and31018 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used 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 used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrids are available in my area?
Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid Listings and Inventory
There are currently 7 used and CPO 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrids listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $43,488 and mileage as low as 13293 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a prew-owned vehicle from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a used or CPO vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid for sale near you.
Can't find a used 2021 BMW X3 X3 Plug-in Hybrid you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a used BMW X3 for sale.
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Find a used certified pre-owned BMW X3 for sale.
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Should I lease or buy a 2021 BMW X3?
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
Check out BMW X3 lease specials
Related Used 2021 BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid info
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