2022 BMW X3 Review
2022 BMW X3 Review
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Though it doesn't stand out in any one category, the BMW X3 is a capable all-rounder. It's comfortable and enjoyable to drive. The cabin isn't as pretty as those of its contemporaries, but overall the X3 is a solid pick for a small luxury SUV.
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Appraise This CarBMW X3 model years
BMW X3 types
- SUV
- M40i
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2022 BMW X3 Review
byKurt Niebuhr
Senior Vehicle Test Editor
Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of Edmunds' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.
, rating written byBrent Romans
Senior Manager, Written Content
Brent Romans has worked in the automotive industry since 1996. He has written or edited thousands of expert car reviews and road-tested hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Brent is a senior manager of written content at Edmunds and previously contributed to publications such as Super Street and Petersen's 4-Wheel & Off-Road. His personal car is a 2019 BMW M2 Competition, which he bought for its ideal combination of performance, style and practicality.
Pros
- Both available engines are powerful and fuel-efficient
- Wide variety of standard and optional features for personalization
- Roomy interior for all passengers
Cons
- Interior design lacks premium style of some competitors
What's new
- Updated front and rear styling
- Revised interior features larger optional touchscreen display and new center console
- Turbo six-cylinder engine gains 48-volt mild hybrid system
- Plug-in hybrid xDrive30e discontinued
- Part of the third X3 generation introduced for 2018
Overview
The BMW X3 is a small luxury SUV. It offers more room than BMW's extra-small SUV, the X1, without being as large as its midsize X5. The X3's mix of practicality, fuel efficiency and performance has made it a class favorite since its introduction in 2003. For 2022, the X3 gets a light styling refresh featuring slimmer headlights, a larger grille and a revised front bumper. The rear of the X3 also gets a new look via restyled taillights.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 BMW X3 sDrive30i 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$216/mo for X3 sDrive30i
X3 sDrive30i
vs
$201/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
BMW has also fiddled with the X3's engines. It has discontinued the plug-in hybrid model, the xDrive30e, so all that's left is the four-cylinder in the sDrive30i and xDrive30i and the six-cylinder in the M40i. The M40i's engine now comes with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This system features an upgraded starter-generator and an additional battery to assist with engine acceleration, making the stop-start system run smoother and allowing for more efficient engine operation in heavy traffic.
Serious competition can be found in everything from the Mercedes-Benz GLC to the Volvo XC60 to the stirring Alfa Romeo Stelvio. Read our test team's Expert Rating on the 2022 X3 to learn more about its strengths and weaknesses.
What's it like to live with?
The 2022 BMW X3 is the best-selling vehicle in the German manufacturer's fleet — how come? We were curious, too, so we added one to our long-term fleet. Edmunds recently spent 20,000 miles with a 2021 BMW X5 and enjoyed it quite a bit; can the X3 live up to its larger sibling? We'll put it through its paces over 12 months, reporting on any advantages and disadvantages that pop up along the way. Check out our experiences with our BMW X3 xDrive30i here.
Edmunds Expert 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.
Good
7.8
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
Though it doesn't stand out in any one category, the BMW X3 is a capable all-rounder. It's comfortable and enjoyable to drive. The cabin isn't as pretty as those of its contemporaries, but overall the X3 is a solid pick for a small luxury SUV.
Rated for you by America's best test team.Performance
7.5/10
How does the X3 drive? We tested the X3 xDrive30i. Around town, the eight-speed transmission smartly keeps the four-cylinder engine right in the heart of its power delivery. The high 6-second 0-60 mph result we recorded should be quick enough for most people. The brakes are strong for panic stops and easy to control in typical driving.
Around turns, the X3 provides composed and enjoyable handling that's often associated with BMW. Alas, the steering is typical of a modern BMW too. It's too easy to turn the wheel in the Comfort setting, making it a little imprecise. The Sport mode provides additional heft and quickness, but there's still not a whole lot of feel coming through the wheel.
Around turns, the X3 provides composed and enjoyable handling that's often associated with BMW. Alas, the steering is typical of a modern BMW too. It's too easy to turn the wheel in the Comfort setting, making it a little imprecise. The Sport mode provides additional heft and quickness, but there's still not a whole lot of feel coming through the wheel.
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 it being outfitted with the optional Dynamic Handling package. The solid level of control means you feel impacts, but they don't reverberate through the cabin or bounce your head around.
At idle, it's so silent that you'll want to check the tachometer to see if the engine is running. There's a little bit of wind noise from the driver's side window at freeway speeds. Engine noise is pronounced under moderate to hard acceleration, but it's not unpleasant.
At idle, it's so silent that you'll want to check the tachometer to see if the engine is running. There's a little bit of wind noise from the driver's side window at freeway speeds. Engine noise is pronounced under moderate to hard acceleration, but it's not unpleasant.
Interior
8.0/10
How’s the interior? The X3's cabin is spacious and smartly arranged. Most controls are immediately understandable. 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 is easily in view. There's plenty of headroom for all passengers, while foot- and legroom are adequate for even tall passengers.
A tall roof means large windows all around, so there's a good view outside no matter where you look. Cleverly, the rear headrests are short so they don't cut into your view through the rearview mirror. The large side mirrors and optional blind-spot monitoring make lane changes safe and easy.
A tall roof means large windows all around, so there's a good view outside no matter where you look. Cleverly, the rear headrests are short so they don't cut into your view through the rearview mirror. The large side mirrors and optional blind-spot monitoring make lane changes safe and easy.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? The combination of touchscreen and dial controls makes exploring infotainment menus a breeze. The nav system is easy to use and the graphics are tack-sharp, although voice commands offer limited usefulness. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is included.
Storage
8.0/10
How’s the storage? Generous cargo space and plentiful interior storage options make the X3 a versatile SUV. There's a healthy 28.7 cubic feet behind the second row, which can easily be lowered from release handles in the rear, revealing 62.7 cubic feet of space. The door pockets are large and numerous, and we like the small compartment to the left of the steering wheel.
Car seat attachments are easy to access, and there's plenty of space for large child seats. The X3 can tow up to 4,400 pounds when it's equipped with the optional 2-inch receiver that includes seven- and four-pin connectors. We laud the capacity, which is among the best in the small luxury SUV category.
Car seat attachments are easy to access, and there's plenty of space for large child seats. The X3 can tow up to 4,400 pounds when it's equipped with the optional 2-inch receiver that includes seven- and four-pin connectors. We laud the capacity, which is among the best in the small luxury SUV category.
Fuel Economy
8.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA rates the X3 xDrive30i at 24 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is an average number for a luxury SUV with a base engine. Still, our X3 beat that rating both on our standardized 115-mile evaluation route (27.7 mpg) and throughout its two-week test period (26.2 mpg average). An impressive result.
Value
8.0/10
Is the X3 a good value? Though the interior lacks the aesthetic appeal of some competitors, the quality is evident. Gaps are tight and uniform, and the switches and controls feel solid. The X3's pricing structure and feature availability line up squarely against the Audi Q5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC. A bit of an advantage comes from a few ownership perks, such as a longer period of free scheduled maintenance.
Wildcard
7.5/10
Despite being a small 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 some other vehicles in the segment. The X3 has an instantly recognizable shape that looks somewhat like a miniature X5, and that's a good thing. But we're less enthusiastic about the interior, which lacks the richness found in rivals.
Which X3 does Edmunds recommend?
The standard X3 sDrive30i is plenty powerful and capable for the vast majority of drivers. For those in colder climates, upgrading to the all-wheel-drive xDrive30i might be a worthwhile expense. To that, we would add the Premium package for its panoramic sunroof and heated seats and the Parking Assistance package for the always useful surround-view camera. If you're seeking a little extra performance, the powerful M40i model could be an appealing choice.
2022 BMW X3 models
The 2022 BMW X3 is available in three trim levels that are primarily based on engine choices. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i both receive a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (248 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque), while the M40i gets a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine (382 hp, 369 lb-ft of torque) coupled with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. An eight-speed automatic drives the rear wheels on the sDrive30i, and all-wheel drive is included with the xDrive30i and M40i.
The sDrive30i and xDrive30i share the same features list with highlights that include:
- Adaptive LED headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
- Auto-dimming mirrors
- Front and rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
- Power liftgate
Inside, you'll find:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Remote monitoring and control via a smartphone app
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and central touchscreen
- Over-the-air software updates
- Navigation system
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- 12-speaker audio system
Standard advanced safety features include:
- Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
- Frontal collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
The more powerful M40i also adds:
- Unique interior and exterior styling elements
- Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
- Higher-performance tires
- Sport suspension
- Upgraded brakes with blue calipers
- Keyless entry
- Panoramic sunroof
- Digital gauge cluster display
- 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen
Some of the M40i's features are available on the 30i as options. Other add-ons include:
- Automated parking system
- Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the vehicle and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
- Leather upholstery
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated front and rear seats
- Ventilated front seats
- Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield)
- Trailer hitch
- Dynamic Handling package (sport suspension, upgraded brakes, sport steering)
- Rear side window shades
- Premium Harman Kardon audio system
- Wireless charging pad
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Average
#16 out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the BMW X3 from 2008-2022.$741/yr
vs. $559/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.71x/yr
vs. 1.23x/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).13.6%
vs. 8.6%
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2022 BMW X3.
5 star(81%)
4 star(6%)
3 star(3%)
2 star(7%)
1 star(3%)
32 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
6 months in
Bruce, 02/04/2023
2022 BMW X3 sDrive30i 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
I’ve had my 2022 X3 for 6 months now. My wife and I love it. No other SUV drives like this BMW. A great combination of fun, luxury and tech. Fast enough, better than expected fuel economy (25/35) after 6 months, comfortable but minimalist leather seating, lots of nice touches. Fun to drive!
5 out of 5 stars
Vroom, Vroom
Detour Dave, 07/23/2022
2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
Owned an Audi Q5 prior to purchasing my new X3. Wasn't thinking about trading the 2018 Audi (really liked it), but with used car values up 39% last fall-it was a no brainer. BMW gave me a $2000 military discount off SRP. I now have driven the car some 8000 miles and every trip is a joy. The super peppy 4cy. turbo will get up and go in Sport mode and still gets me over 30 MPG in highway … driving. Due to the chip shortage, BMW put in some M model features simply to get the car produced. The 2022 was cheaper than a similar 2001 as some features were unavailable ie. passenger seat does not have power adjustment. The tech package outpaces the Q5 with several additional features. On my first 3 hour trip, the car asked me if I was tired as it would find me a coffee shop. The seating position is superb and the ride is extremely quiet. The nav system takes some getting used to, but is very large and accurate. Car play is included, but I never use it. The run flat tires run smooth and create a much larger cargo area due to the absence of a spare tire. Under the cargo area is a large storage area for small items. All in all, the X3 is a very good value for the dollar. The only shortfalls of this quality vehicle are the standard sound system (very mediocre) and the floor mats supplied are cheap and need replacing. I do miss the USB ports of the Audi as I could load up hundreds of songs.
5 out of 5 stars
I like it
Mike, 09/21/2021
2022 BMW X3 M40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A)
It's been a month so far so good. The addition of the 48 volt battery makes the start stop all most unnoticeable. Excellent horse power, that thing is a beast! Fun spirited driving, Couldn't be happier.
Update - Still happy after 6 months. No issues at all
3/23/2023 Update - Still loving this car! I've had zero issues and have only done maintenance. Gas milage is good. The … average since I owned the car has been 27mpg. I would recommend
5 out of 5 stars
It’s Pretty darn good.
Cash, 09/12/2021
2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
This car is great. My single only issue is that the driver seat is not as comfortable as I would like it and I wish it had maybe 1 more inch of lift capability so that I could sit a little higher.
2022 BMW X3 video
2022 BMW X3: What It's Like to Live With | BMW X3 20,000-Mile Long-Term Test Wrap-Up
The compact luxury SUV segment is one of the most hotly contested in the industry, so it's important that vehicles in this segment are as well rounded as possible. The BMW X3 is one of the most popular offerings — and BMW's best-seller — so we got behind the wheel of a 2022 X3… xDrive30i model for more than 20,000 miles to see if it's deserving of those high sales figures. In this video, Edmunds' Lauren McCay gives you the rundown on our experience, from tech to fuel economy to utility and everything in between.
2022 X3 Highlights
SUV
sDrive30i
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $43,700 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 25 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $216/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 28.7 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the X3 models:
- 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.
- Parking Assistant Plus
- Guides the X3 into a parallel parking spot with minimal driver intervention.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover17.2%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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