Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW X3 review - strong engines help make this an impressive SUV - Design

Do you really need an X5?

Evo rating
RRP
from £33,945
  • Decent to drive, strong diesel engines, good interior tech
  • Bested by Macan dynamically, numb steering, slightly stiff ride, dated interior design

The X3 has much more in common with its X5 bigger brother than the original model did. It’s an attractive SUV and features BMW’s signature kidney grille, giving the X3 a commanding presence. M Sport models look more aggressive with lower bumpers, gloss-black trim and larger alloy wheels.

At the rear, LED tail-lights are standard. The tailgate opens to reveal a low loading space, which can be accessed hands-free if you choose the optional comfort access package. The rearmost windows are angled up at the bottom in classic BMW SUV fashion. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

Despite solid aesthetic foundations though, the X3 does look dated compared to new rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. An all new model promises to take on board the lastest BMW design cues, but till then, the X3 will struggle to make the other parents at your kids football match look over in envy.  

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

De Tomaso Pantera (1971-1992) review – the forgotten 1980s supercar
De Tomaso Pantera
Reviews

De Tomaso Pantera (1971-1992) review – the forgotten 1980s supercar

The Pantera is an oft-forgotten, much-misunderstood supercar. Driving the rare GT5-S version shows it deserves its place among the greats
15 Sep 2026
Audi RS5 v BMW M3: estates go head-to-head – car pictures of the week
Audi RS5 Avant and BMW M3 CS Touring
Features

Audi RS5 v BMW M3: estates go head-to-head – car pictures of the week

In this week’s car pictures we look at the highlights from our highly anticipated estate head-to-head between Audi’s RS5 Avant, and the class favourit…
12 Sep 2026
BMW M5 (F90, 2017 - 2023) review – a 600bhp saloon for £35k
BMW M5 Competition F90
In-depth reviews

BMW M5 (F90, 2017 - 2023) review – a 600bhp saloon for £35k

The F90 BMW M5 added polish and all-wheel drive to Munich’s super saloon formula, making it quicker than even its 2026 successor
15 Sep 2026