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2022 BMW X3 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

BMW X3 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Sharper new look for a favorite compact luxury SUV
  • Strong performance mated to solid EPA-estimated fuel economy

Cons

  • The interior is beginning to feel old compared to rivals
  • The X3 M's suspension is on the uncomfortable side

Mileage (EPA estimate)

14 city, 19 highway, 16 combined

Pricing for current inventory

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Price
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The 2022 BMW is better than ever, thanks to a new look, more standard equipment

For 2022, BMW refreshed the X3, its perennial favorite compact luxury SUV. Styling changes to the front and rear sharpen its looks, while inside there are some detail changes around the center console, touchscreen displays, and instruments. BMW has quietly dropped the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, but it could return in time with an improved battery-only range and better EPA-estimated fuel economy. The X3 is offered with an automatic transmission only. The lineup starts with the sDrive30i and xDrive30i, the s signifying rear-wheel drive and the x all-wheel drive. These models are powered by a punchy 2.0-liter turbocharged with 248 hp, which is smooth and quick. As long as you're not reveling in the X3's sharp handling and pushing the engine hard, they return good EPA-estimated fuel economy.

If you want your X3 with a bit more grunt, then the M40i is worth seeking out. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder packs a more potent 382 hp, making it very quick, and tweaks to its M Sport suspension let you enjoy its greater performance. 2022 changes to the M40i include a mild hybrid system that smooths out the stop-start system in traffic and adds a little bit of boost under punchy acceleration. In the unlikely event that's still not enough, BMW can sell you a full-on X3 M. This Motorsport model sees power swell to 473 hp in standard form or 503 hp in the Competition model. Either one is impressively fast and capable, but, really, the X3 M's stiffer ride only compromises the X3's strengths.

All BMW X3 years

What is new for the 2022 BMW X3?

  • A/C Seat(s) and Remote Start features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The XDrive30i trim now comes with Smart Key and Android Auto as standard equipment.
  • The sDrive30i trim now comes with Smart Key and Android Auto as standard equipment.
  • The M40I trim now comes with Adjustable Suspension as standard equipment.
  • The M trim now comes with Navigation System as standard equipment.

2022 BMW X3 trims

Curious how BMW X3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

sDrive30i:

  • 248-hp, 258-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Side Airbags
  • Rear Defroster
  • Cruise Control
  • Power Seats
  • Memory Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control

XDrive30i:

M40I:

M:

  • Includes all features available on the M40I
  • 473-hp, 457-lb-ft of torque 3.0L
  • Leather Seats
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • View our BMW X3 M inventory

BMW X3 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2022 BMW X3

1. Enticing engine options

If you're shopping for a luxury compact SUV that's a true performer, this 2022 BMW X3 review is a great place to start your search. The X3 offers an appealing pair of engine choices, allowing you to cater your driving experience to meet your need for on-road excitement. The 2022 X3 xDrive 30i comes standard with a 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a quick throttle response—it can fly from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). Even more thrilling is the performance-oriented M40i, with its 382-hp turbocharged-six that uses a 48-volt mild hybrid system to push out 369 lb-ft of torque and achieve a zero-to-60 mph time in 4.1-seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new).

2. Agile handling

The 2022 BMW X3 sDrive30i comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but for challenging conditions—like rainy roads, snow-covered streets, and gravel paths—the xDrive30i and M40i feature all-wheel drive for added grip and confidence. Whether commuting or road tripping, you'll love the 2022 X3's driving dynamics. This compact SUV feels stable around turns, the steering is well-weighted, and the brakes deliver plenty of stopping power. Even with its firm ride and sporty attitude, the 2022 BMW X3 glides over uneven pavement, making it a comfortable choice for any journey.

3. Stylish and spacious

The five-passenger 2022 BMW X3 has an elegant interior, offering plenty of space and premium features. The large doors make it easy to climb into the cabin, where you'll find standard 10-way power-adjustable front seats with leatherette upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control. With 36.4 inches of rear-seat legroom, adult passengers will sit comfortably. This luxury compact SUV also has impressive cargo capacity, with 28.7 cu-ft behind the second row and 62.7 cu-ft with the rear seats folded.

4. Modern connectivity

The 2022 BMW X3 includes intuitive infotainment and connectivity features to enhance your daily drive. A large 10.25-inch touchscreen comes standard, with sharp graphics and responsive inputs. The navigation system is convenient for finding your way, while Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto capabilities ensure seamless smartphone integration. Wireless device charging is optional, as is a 16-speaker Harman Kardon® stereo for concert-like sound. Plus, available Wi-Fi hotspot capability in the 2022 X3 helps you stay connected on your travels.

5. Confidence-building tech

The 2022 BMW X3 includes a range of standard driver aids for your peace of mind. A rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and rear cross-traffic alert simplify tricky maneuvers, and blind-spot monitoring ensures confident lane changes. Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking alert you of potential hazards and activate the braking system if you're slow to react. The 2022 X3 also comes with lane departure warning to keep you on your path.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

3
Average

RepairPal gave the BMW X3 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks BMW X3 16th out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the BMW X3

BMW X3 features and specs

sDrive30i 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cruise Control
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Leather Seats
  • Navigation System
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Rear Sunshade
  • Remote Start
  • Run Flat Tires
  • Running Boards
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

248

Torque (ft-lbs)

258

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

17.2

Wheelbase

112.8"

Overall length

185.9"

Width

74.4"

Height

66"

Leg room

F 40.3"/R 36.4"

Head room

F 41.1"/R 38.5"

Front tires

P245/50HR19

Rear tires

P245/50HR19

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2022 BMW X3 FAQ

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