Pricing
The little engine that could!
2023 X3 xDrive30i Parking Assistance Package Premium Package Remote Engine Start Wireless Charging This is my first post-Pandemic auto purchase and it has been an eye opener for sure! If you haven't gotten a car since COVID started, be prepared to be disappointed by offerings and package deductions due to supply chain issues. For some background, I cross shopped this against a Mercedes GLC. From reviewing various GLC window stickers where some packages were called "Lite", it was obvious that some critical components would not be included (such as the hands-free liftgate, which was a deal-breaker for me). Let me dive into the Highs/Lows with some thoughts on each after owning the car for 3 weeks. Highs: 1) Performance - this car has a Sport mode that will make you fly like a bat out of hell if you want to! Although the default driving mode is "Comfort" every time you start the car, everybody does this for fuel economy advantage when the car is tested/reviewed to match EPA numbers. I normally drive in ECO-PRO for max fuel economy but have that Sport mode on-demand when entering a highway or for passing. I'm getting about 27 mpg on mixed driving, which is actually better than the large, heavy TLX I turned in. Did I think about upgrading to the 6-cyl M40i? Only for a split second! A fully optioned M40i is easily X5 money and I don't need the speed of the M40i nor the size of the X5. BMW makes great engines that are fuel econ friendly and perform when you need it to! 2) Cargo space - I believe it's top 2 or 3 in its luxury class. Plenty of room and allows me to put my golfbag in sideways along with a foldable push cart. The available handsfree liftgate (waving your foot) made this easy over the GLC (missing in the "Premium Package Lite"). 3) Door ajar warning - if one of the doors is slightly ajar, you will get a pulsating red light on the guilty door. This is extremely handy if you have kids rushing out that may not have closed the door completely! 4) Infotainment - this is my first car with wireless CarPlay and it works really well! BMW also gives you a choice of either using the touchscreen or the physical dial located near the shifter. Some functions do require drilling down into the menus but I have no issues with this. 5) Surround Cameras - my first car with surround cameras and it makes parking a breeze! There is also the added bonus of a Remote 3D Camera feature on the MyBMW app that lets you see your car's surroundings in case you forgot where you parked or possibly as info to police if your car's been stolen. Lows: 1) No HUD available - due to the chip shortage, the HUD is only available on the M40i for $$$. I was hoping to get one this time around but I've never had it so not as big a deal right now. 2) Audio system - the standard HiFi sound system is garbage. I easily went from one of the best (3D ELS in the TLX A-Spec) to one of the worst. I read that the Harman Kardon package isn't that much better (and why I didn't look for this package). I may end up changing out the amp and/or speakers down the road when the warranty is expired. Audiophiles may want to stay away from BMW. 3) Brake feel - after 3 weeks, I'm still trying to dial in how to brake properly in this car. As you slow down, I often find the car lurching forward for the final second. Braking under Sport mode is pretty aggressive and why I only reserve that drive mode for special situations where I need speed. This may or may not be a deal breaker for some so a test drive is highly recommended! 4) Choice of ambient lights - there are only about 6-8 color combos to choose from. Red is not an option, most likely due to it being reserved as the "door ajar" color. 5) Wireless charger - a waste of $500. Although it comes with a BMW digital key which allows you to program your phone as a key, the charger itself only keeps the phone charge neutral (don't expect rapid charging here). I ended up buying a MagSafe charger and plugging that into the USB C port located in the driver side valet box. This could be a "High" instead of a "Low" if you dislike carrying the keyfob as you could use the digital key exclusively. Digital key is included in the package because you can't activate the digital key w/o the wireless charging pad (done by a BMW Genius during car delivery). Final thoughts: I could have waited for the fully redesigned 2023 GLC coming next April but there is a significant price increase and I have no idea if those stupid "Lite" packages will continue. I'm not a fan of getting the first year of a new gen car anyway so that made the decision easier. Note that BMW is still trying to sell plenty of 2022 X3s and they only have recently arrived after much delay. If you are a fan of the gesture controls, you will want a '22 model as it's not available on the '23 models. You'll also have to weigh the cheaper MSRP/sale price of a '22 vs a '23 against future resale value of the car. One Year Update: a year later, the car runs great and not much to complain about. Fuel economy has been great and the drive still brings a smile to my face. I don't recommend long trips (3-4 hours) as the seats can be uncomfortable (YMMV as everyone's body type is different). I really wish I had adjustable side bolstering since sliding in the seat can happen on tight turns. If buying used, highly recommend the Parking Assistance Package and make sure to get Harman Kardon (I didn't and regret it!). I didn't get the Driving Assistance Package but I hear good things about it. Hope this helps!
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Safety!!
Safety features are phenomenal. We had a 2020 X3 that was totaled by someone who caused our accident. The doors of our X3 automatically unlocked, so that the emergency help could get to us immediately, without us having to think to open the doors. My husband's arm was broken, and I was bruised by the airbags and seatbelts; however, our X3 kept us from being totally incapacitated and seriously injured. I recommend BMW, not just for just their wonderful safety features, but it drives like a dream. It is so easy to handle and is quick to move, when needed. The car that caused our accident made an illegal left turn, on an off ramp, directly in front of us, traveling between 35-40 mph. He came out of nowhere and it happened so quickly, we didn't have time to hit our brakes. The other car drug us approximately 15 feet. It could have been a lot worse, had our BMW X3 not been so superbly built with awesome safety features. I don't think I will ever have any vehicle other than a BMW.
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- sDrive30i 4dr SUVMSRP: $33,42020 mi away
- sDrive30i 4dr SUVMSRP: $34,42011 mi away
- xDrive30i 4dr SUVMSRP: $47,99018 mi away
M40i is what you need
Got my new BMW X3 M40i a few days back. I love the aventurin red exterior. It goes really well with shadow line trim and black leather interior. To spice things up, I chose blue brake calipers. I opted for all the options except larger 20 inch wheels (compared to the standard 19 inch I got) and sport differential (comes with summer tires), to keep the ride on the comfortable side. If you are planning to drive on tracks and not usual roads, you will need those. Otherwise, avoid both, since the suspension is already on the harsher side. Regarding the driving experience, the 382 HP power train is simply awesome. It combines an inline 6 with twin turbochargers and an electric motor. There's no turbo lag and the car reaches 60 mph (100 kph) in just 4 seconds. Yet better, you can set each of engine, tranny, steering, and suspension to either comfort or sport mode, so you essentially have 16 cars in one. I keep the suspension to comfort while setting the rest to sport. Setting the engine and tranny to sport also results in an unbelievably sweet engine note, and you wouldn't want to turn on your stereo. The car is pricey but the engine note is just priceless. In that sense, M40i does stand for intense midlife crisis after 40. UPDATE after 1 year of ownership, 11,750 miles: Everything is good so far. The Aventurin Red exterior is certainly an attention-getter. Also, in the default Comfort mode, the car delivers an exceptional 33 mpg on highway with premium Shell fuel. This is much better than the official rating.You can surely do better by choosing the Eco Pro mode. I am now using the Sport mode for stop-and-go traffic and Comfort on highway trips. In both these modes, acceleration is exceptional. In Comfort, the active exhausts stay quiet, and you can hear the stereo better. In Sport, it's all pops and crackles and a ton of fun. Also, enjoying the car's self-driving features on long trips. The car drives beautifully on its own even on busy highways. Need to be careful though in construction zones where lanes are not properly marked and also on twisty roads. Not much to complain about yet, but if something comes up, I will post another update.
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Everything I had hoped it would be.
After owning three GLC’s I wanted a change. This X3 is one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. Having owned many different luxury cars over the years, this car is everything I had wanted. Smooth ride yet great road mannerisms. High quality fit and finish and very configurable when ordering. I ordered mine with the M package and upgraded to 20 inch wheels. Unless you really desire lots of power the standard engine is perfect. Zero to sixty in 6 seconds. Definitely worth test driving if you’re reviewing multiple brands.
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A dream machine
Responsive, excellent handling, adequate pep, and a remarkably quiet, solid ride. Update: Still lovin' it!!
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The hot rod I all ways wanted
I leased an 2021 X3 30i, I moved up to the 2024 X3 40i fully loaded! It is night and day compared to my previous X3. It took me a two weeks to get comfortable with how fast this car is! In comparison my first BMW that was a 1997 540i Sedan with 282 HP V8! It was an amazing car, loved it! But this 40i with M suspension takes that to a new level! Everything is sharper, steering, throttle response, cornering, breaking! The only down side is the run flats, the ride is too harsh, this is my third X3 and I’ve switched out the run flats on those vehicles and got a much nicer ride and I’ll be doing that with this one. Oh one more thing, a car turned into my lane from a left hand turn lane she decided to go up one more street before making a left, a saw her turn into me and I later found out that the X3 avoided her on its own! It felt weird (steering wheel movement) I thought i did the steering input but one of the genius guys at the dealer told me the car avoided her I was shocked! Amazing!!! I owned a Honda accord that had cameras in the side mirrors like This car (SUV) it feels like a car, i drive it every day because I’m addicted, the acceleration from a stop at an intersection is awe-inspiring the lower speeds are where this vehicle shines it’s so solid in its footing so drivable so much the master in this space it’s like that dance partner, like Michael Jordan in a crowd of lessor beings! Then there’s the Harmon Kardon system oh my God yes I spelled that out because it’s Amazing!!! I play bass guitar in multiple bands and I’m very critical of how we should sound this system is better than itunes atmos and I really like atmos! I shouldn’t say this but I’ve driven this car up to 127 MPH several times now, Wow I’ve never done that before with any other car but it happens so fast! I’m in love!
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NOTHING but BMW for me
Have driven only this brand since 1998. 3 series (2), 5 series (2) and X3 (on #5). Each was phenomenal for the my age and needs at the time. Fast and furious in my 40’s, now safe and very peppy in my senior citizen years. Still love this brand and am still proud to say I have a Beemer. Nothing drives like it. I’m a healthcare worker and that X Drive got me to work through blizzards, icy roads, heavy rains. Nothing stops her. It’s always a thrill to get behind the wheel. Still! Every time!
A just-the-right-sized SUV
BMW has evolved the X3 over the generations into a not-to-big and not-too-small SUV. Inside is modern with enough space that you don't feel claustrophobic. The tech is well thought-out and the latest iDrive easy to use. For a BMW it feels luxurious, but I can understand how people moving from other luxury brands may feel differently. Overall the controls are easy to use and intuitive. Positives: - The B58 in-line 6 cylinder engine is a gem with smooth linear power throughout the rev range - Just the right size to accommodate adults in the back seat (the backseat is the Porsche Macan's weak point) - Good tech: heads-up display, surround view camera, interior lighting, iDrive is easy to use, and different driving modes which you can customize - Gas mileage is better than expected Negatives: - Ride quality is disappointing. The suspension is stiff and jittery even in the softest settings. Those prone to motion sickness will struggle. As a sport SUV, one can expect a stiff suspension, but this just transmits too much jitter and motion into the cabin. Those who argue that the ride is appropriate for a sporty SUV should spend time in the Porsche Macan or Cayenne to see what's possible. This is a recognized weakness that BMW addressed in the 2025 model. - Transmissions seems to hunt around too much in the sport settings (as compared to Porsche PDK which feels telepathic). It's fine, but I find my self needing to manual shift when enjoying a country road. - Leather is lower quality compared to other luxury brands. It's fine, just a bit stiff. - base stereo is weak. Overall it's a great SUV, but recommending taking an extended drive to see if the ride is acceptable prior to purchasing.
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Lots of car for the money
We recently purchased a 2024 X3 from BMW Seattle. The vehicle delivers a very enjoyable driving experience while providing both a pleasantly comfortable ride and user-friendly environment. We also own a 2022 BMW X5 and bought the X3 largely due to our very positive experience over 1.5 years of owning the X5 so far. While the X3 isn’t quite as luxurious as our X5, the X3 delivers a comparable driving experience despite its smaller size and significantly lower cost. We are very happy to have both vehicles in our garage!
Nice upgrade from 2021 X3
Lease expired on my 2021 X3. Incoming 2024 is like a different vehicle. This seems really odd to me since it essentially the same. The 2024 is much quieter and seems to run smoother. I appreciate the updated interior lighting and the heads up display. The only thing I'm not fond of is the fake leather seats. But hey, it's only 3 more years. Great small suv.
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Agile driving machine
Fun to drive, easy to park, and smooth handling on the highway. Getting 31 mpg on premium gasoline. Impeccable interior with ample space for luggage. Vision is great in all directions with technology assisting when driving. Ride is not as smooth as the 2 BMW sedans that we owned for over 11 years but the road handling is firmer and the ride is somewhat firmer with the different tires.
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Luxury Vehicle
Smooth driving, safety, comfortable, strong power, beautifully, & smart design.
Love this X3
I have owned four BMWs and this is the one that is affordable, fun to drive, and has the right amount of performance.
Triple Black
My first BMW! Love my M Sport Package model. Smooth, quiet and steady on the road.
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Imados’ BMW
I like everything about this BMW X3. Very smooth, very elegant and sporty at the same time. Good on gas and looks.
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Awful Steering
Just bought a 2024 X3 and after a few days when I was on a longer stretch of road, I found myself constantly moving the steering the wheel back and forth without the car moving. After some internet research, lots of people are complaining about micro adjusting the steering wheel constantly. When I brought this to the attention of the BMW service dept asking if perhaps something could be tightened, they literally refused to respond on point. Same thing with corporate BMW. It's like talking to a brick wall. I even asked should there be any play in the steering? You would think the answer would be a straightforward "no,' but all these people just change the subject and refuse to answer. Also, there have been steering recalls on this X3, specifically loose steering gears. Be very careful when test driving this vehicle. Move the steering wheel back and forth and see if you experience any play. An Edmunds review from 2022 actually points out this issue on the X3.
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Beamer
Great vehicle love everything about it!!!
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2024 X3 Steering Wheel Vibration
I traded a 2021 X3 Sdrive on a 2024 X3 Sdrive. I immediately noticed a steering wheel vibration/buzz feeling at 1100-1200 rpm. Long story short, apparently BMW has removed the top dampers on the front struts. They say they aren't needed and that the vehicle "meets US specs". The vibration is almost like the lane departure vibration you get. BMW won't address this and clearly ... after owning six of their products over the last 20 years ... I am not happy.
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Love it!
Love the quiet interior and smooth ride. It feels solidly built. The price was right in line as other less luxurious cars that we looked at.
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Nice car
I love it!
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Solid but boring
Seating not real comfortable, drives more like truck than car…seat quality iffy, Ride smooth, need sport mode for good pickup, trunk area small as 330ix Hard to do tight corners, front hood looks like bat mobile from inside..noise level great except wind thru windows …dealer response sucks
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Horrible ride quality
This is our sixth BMW and possibly will be our last! All the BMW’s that we have ever had drove very well and handled very well. However, this brand new 2024 BMW X3 rides like crap it jiggles it bounces it shutters sorry but I hate this car. I wish I could turn it in and not look back, I reported it to customer service and I reported it to the dealership both seem like they don’t care don’t ask me why cause we’re very good customers. I myself think it’s very possible that they fine tuned the suspension for the new regular tires 19 inch that they put on the vehicle however, this vehicle came with run flats and I don’t think the suspension was tuned for them. They of course will not admit to it but like I said, I wouldn’t buy another BMW X3. Sorry I almost feel like I’m unsafe driving the car no joke that’s how much it bounces and jiggles especially in the warm weather when the tire pressure goes up just a pinch wow. Sadly I am seriously disappointed. November 24,2024 update my wife and I met with somebody in service. We have an appointment in January the person that we met with made us feel encouraged that they would fix the problem, no matter what. I will spare you all the details but promise to provide an update after the car is brought in for service in early January. It seems like I was right and that the run flats might be at fault, but that is still to be determined in January after they evaluate the car hands on for themselves. Review to be continued.
Cheap interior
Recently took delivery of a new 2023 BMW x3 m40i to replace my 2019 version. I must say that the new car is quieter and a bit more refined than the '19. The way it runs and drives is as always just fantastic. Here I'll stop with the Kudos and get to my problem with this car. The interior stinks. No matter what color you order it will be 60% black. This is "bean counters" heaven and no excuse is good enough to justify it in a car that cost over 60k. This is the only reason it gets 3 stars otherwise it's 5 for sure.
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Not as solid as 2019
I think there is little more road noise as compare to my 2019 x3. I am not happy about it. It feels more as car drive as compare to solid SUV drive. The doors are lighter and does have a usual BMW thump sound on closure. It drives well, only a week old no complaints. The changes in idrive are always painful and relearning. I am not sure that BMW brand is moving towards not maintaining some of it’s own standard or it’s just a change. I am upset the dealership did not give me OEM BMW mats as I expected. I should not have trusted them!
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Nice luxury transport if a bit underwhelming
The X3 xDrive30i is a nice SUV for the money. It steers and handles better than any vehicle this size should be able to do! It also has a level of craftsmanship to the fit and finish of the interior that is class leading. Everything feels solid and tight and every surface you touch justifies the premium you paid. The 248 HP turbo 4-banger, however, lacks the low-end torque to make this feel like an ultimate driving machine. You really have to put your right foot into it and dig into the rev range to make this SUV move. Sport and Sport Plus modes help, as do the paddle shifters. But I really had to think about acceleration when merging into traffic or passing on the highway. I drive a 2022 X5 x40i and a 2017 Audi Q5 2.0 and this 2024 X3 was noticeably sluggish compared to both. Not the car for me, but if you're a less spirited driver and want impeccably built luxury transportation for the money, you should consider this X3.
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Great vehicle!
I love everything about this suv
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Do not Purchase X3
Trunk gaskets wrong design, leaking rain water inside, Car goes toasted.
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Horrible driver side wind noise
Driver side window has horrible wind noise. Dealer had it for over a week and brought it back stating “they made some tweeks” but I don’t notice any improvement. It is infuriating to pay 70k for a car and hear wind noise at speeds 60 and above with no resolution.
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Not a mild hybrid fan
This 24 model came with the mild hybrid system. I don't like it. Not as much power and horrible gas mileage as compared to my previous 21 X3M40i. I can go into a corner fast but when I want more power applied, it times out for a few seconds. No it is not lag. It is the electric boost. It is horrible to count on. I won't buy another BMW if it has the hybrid system. Gas mileage is horrible too but supposed to be as good if not better. My best so far is 24.5 and I had to baby it and put it on cruise at 60. It normally gets 21-22 unless I start gassing hard then it drops to 18-19. My previous 21 X3M40i got me 34.7 at 75 and also gave me 22mpg at over 100mph. It was a gasoline only engine. UPDATE: I have the X3M40i and love it. High performance when I need it. Quite comfy and my worst mileage is 23.5 at 80mph on cruise whereas my best is 29.5 at 70mph on cruise. No problems to speak of. Love how it corners and has a 4.4sec 0-60.
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Zip
We have the M model. Plenty of acceleration, very safe drive and a lot of driver assist features. Regret we did not get the reverse mirror automatic setting and the foot operated hatch actuator. We are very pleased with our BMW X3 purchase.
Amazing car
The quality and features of the BMW X3 are outstanding and not to mention the amazingly good gas mileage in Eco Mode (36-39 mpg on highway). A Great family car.
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