BMW X3 2024 review
Photo: Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The BMW X3 is the benchmark many premium family SUVs are judged against, and for 2024 it continues to set the standard for driver appeal. Few rivals steer or handle with the same precision, yet the X3 never forgets it is a family car first: the cabin is roomy, the 550-litre boot is among the largest in the class, and the xDrive20d diesel remains a brilliant all-round powertrain for high-mileage drivers. With 197PS from the 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel, it delivers punchy mid-range performance and genuine 45mpg-plus economy on a run. UK buyers also get the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, which makes sense for company-car drivers chasing low BIK rates. Inside, the curved display combining a 12.3-inch instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch infotainment screen looks suitably high-tech, though some physical buttons have been lost in the process. Rivals include the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Land Rover Discovery Sport, but for keener drivers the X3 still feels a cut above. It is the default choice for a reason: practical, premium and genuinely enjoyable to drive.
UK price from: £48,500
Specifications
| Engine | 2.0 TwinPower Turbo diesel |
| Power | 197PS |
| 0-60 mph | 7.8 seconds |
| Top speed | 134mph |
| Fuel economy | 47.9mpg |
| CO2 | 155g/km |
| Boot space | 550 litres |
| Length | 4,708mm |
| Transmission | 8-speed Steptronic auto |
| Drive | xDrive all-wheel drive |
Features
- 2.0 diesel with 197PS and 400Nm torque
- xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive
- Curved display with 14.9-inch touchscreen
- Electric front sport seats
- Reversing Assist Camera
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Power tailgate
- Ambient interior lighting
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake discs (pair) | £119.99 | Vented discs for xDrive20d; check runout on fitting |
| Oil filter | £14.99 | OEM cartridge filter, 15k-mile intervals |
| Cabin pollen filter | £21.99 | Activated carbon type; yearly replacement |
| Wiper blade set | £27.99 | Flat blades for curved windscreen |
| Glow plugs (set of 4) | £64.99 | Diesel cold-start service item |
| Tailgate strut | £34.99 | Gas strut for power tailgate models |
Pros
- Best-in-class handling for an SUV
- Huge 550-litre boot
- Excellent diesel economy
- Strong residuals and desirability
Cons
- Firm ride on M Sport suspension
- Options are expensive
- Some rivals have classier cabins
- Big wheels hurt ride comfort
