The new BMW X3 has landed and it's had a shock makeover both inside and out.
This is a critically important model for BMW. It's one of the brand's most popular cars and, as a family-sized SUV, it's playing in one of the most competitive classes on sale.
BMW redesigns have occasionally been overly conservative but that's not a criticism you can level at the new X3. This model feels like a ground-up rethink, drawing a little inspiration from the brand's recent 'Vision Neue Klasse X' concept.
2024 BMW X3 styling
There was little to criticise about the old X3's styling, but it felt predictable and a little unremarkable compared to more eye-catching rivals. The new car is much more modern looking, with clean surfaces that BMW accurately calls 'generously sized' to give the car a 'monolithic' appearance.
By the company's recent standards, its signature 'kidney' grilles are fairly restrained compared to the oversized units on the M3 or XM, for example. If they're not eye-catching enough for you, however, select the M Sport Pro package to add 'Iconic Glow', which puts LED backlighting around the grille frame to make the front end more, er, distinctive.
The more you look at the new X3's profile, you might notice it has fairly exaggerated rearward proportions. Its bonnet stretches far out in front of the car and the cabin seems heavily weighted towards the rear axle, giving the impression of extra rear width and a planted stance. This feels like quite a departure from the old X3's more traditional SUV-like proportions.
2024 BMW X3 interior
The new X3's exterior is clearly distinguished from its predecessor, but its interior feels like a complete clean-sheet redesign. Some familiar beats can be found – the massive double-screen panel that forms driver's dials and the central infotainment system has appeared in recent BMW models. The lighting is all new, however, with dramatic backlit panels around the controls beneath the screen, on the door panels and in the centre console.
Between the seats, you'll find wireless phone charging and a new switch-style automatic gear selector, as well as a crystal-effect rotary dial which allows more control over the infotainment system. All models come with 'Econeer' upholstery made from recycled plastic, with the option to upgrade to 'Veganza' faux-leather or Merino full leather.
Lots of passenger space is a given considering the X3's fairly substantial dimensions and five-seat cabin layout. The boot has also grown 20 litres over its predecessor, bringing the total to 570 litres or 460 on the plug-in-hybrid model.
2024 BMW X3 engines and performance
All models in the lineup come standard with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and the company's xDrive four-wheel-drive system. The engine range itself has also been simplified with just four to choose from.
Entry-level xDrive 20 models use a 208hp 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. This'll dash from 0-62mph in just under eight seconds and should return mpg figures in the high 30s if you drive gently. You also have the option of a 197hp xDrive 20d 2.0-litre diesel, which is a tenth faster than the petrol to 62mph and can average fuel economy in the high-40s.
Next up is the xDrive 30e plug-in hybrid. This makes a combined 299hp for healthy acceleration and, in ideal circumstances, can average more than 250mpg. Electric-only range is improved over the last X3 with a claimed 56 miles from a full charge.
Finally, there's the range-topping xDrive M50. This sports a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine with a massive 398hp. It'll leap from 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds, making it faster than most legitimate sports cars in a drag race. It also gains performance parts such as an upgraded steering system, brakes and rear differential to cope with the extra speed on straights and in corners. Adaptive dampers are also available on the M50's options list.
2024 BMW X3 price and specs
Prices for the entry-level models start from £46,800 rising to £48,210 if you want the diesel engine. Standard equipment includes alloy wheels, three-zone climate control, cruise control, a powered boot lid, ambient interior lighting and acoustically insulated glass. You also get a full infotainment system with built-in sat nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
You'll pay £56,340 for the plug-in-hybrid xDrive 30e. Expect these prices to rise a little if you choose BMW's popular M Sport trim, which gets larger alloys and a meaner-looking body kit.
The xDrive M50 tops the range at a steep £64,990, although it gets lots of extra sporty accessories and performance parts plus a big engine to justify its higher price.
2024 BMW X3 release date
BMW expects deliveries for the new X3 to begin in the fourth quarter of 2024.
As a result, the first nearly new examples should start arriving at Motorpoint at some point towards the end of 2025. These will have substantial savings on their brand-new list prices.
Premium SUVs, affordable prices
Motorpoint has a huge selection of used cars for sale, along with dozens of different SUVs from popular brands – all with thousands of pounds off their brand-new price.
