BMW X3 features that stand out from the competition.
Despite the SUV market filling up with options, the BMW X3 remains one of the most popular entry-level premium SUVs in the global market today. A vehicle doesn’t reach that status without selling over 1.5 million units over the span of two generations. But rivals are hammering on the door, ready to stake their claim to titles in the compact SUV market. Can the updated BMW X3 reclaim its place atop the compact luxury SUV food chain?
How does it compare aesthetically to rivals?
Commenting on looks of a vehicle is always subjective. I may love it, but you may prefer the Audi Q5 to be more attractive. Someone else may prefer something like the Jaguar F-Pace or the Volvo XC60 above these titans. Point is, aesthetics are a matter of opinion. However, it can be said that the latest BMW X3’s appearance has been vastly modernized to fit into its central design philosophy.
As can be seen on the newer 5 Series models, the X3 has the larger kidney grille and the wider headlights. It also got bigger intakes, fairly similar to the 4 Series, and it’s not looking like an aesthetic dinosaur anymore. Sadly for the X3, its rivals are all making similar moves.
How do these SUVs compare in size?
The tangible numbers here makes it tricky in the cabin and a barometer should be used to grade these SUV models.
Since the X3 is based on the 5 Series saloon platform, it enjoys a longer wheelbase than its predecessor and measures up at 4,708mm in length, 1,891mm in height and is 1,676mm wide. The Mercedes GLC is only 4,656mm long, and the Audi Q5 measures up at 4,663mm. The Jaguar F-Pace is the longest, measuring in at 4,731mm nose-to-tail.
The latest X3’s extended wheelbase allows for plenty of occupant space, while the interior feels noticeably more spacious than its predecessor. It offers similar room to that of the larger X5 model.
In the front, both driver and passenger are spoiled for space. Two full-sized adults will also fit comfortably in the back with enough legroom for a six-foot adult to sit behind a similarly tall driver.
In terms of boot space, the X3’s size hasn’t changed much. On offer is a capacity of 550 litres and its low lip makes it easy to load and unload heavy items. Though it’s not as spacious as Jaguar’s 650-litre luggage area in the F-Pace, it is still practically strong. For maximum space, the X3 offers more than the Volvo XC60 which sits at a 1,432-litre maximum while the X3 offers 1,600 litres.
Towing
BMW keeps towing simple with the X3. Engine, drivetrain and transmission aside, any X3 will have a maximum braked trailer towing capacity of 2,000kg.
Premium materials
Considering the above SUVs are from premium brands, it can be said with certainty that each of them are kitted with premium materials. Be it in the form of fine leather like Alcantara, or even carbon fibre, each of these SUVs is fitted with them in some form or fashion. The only thing that differentiates one from the other is how much of it their maker used to dress them up with.
BMW’s X3 remains to show a lot of promise but what’s going to keep it successful depends on how much BMW will price its variants, especially compared to the prices of competing models from Audi and Mercedes-Benz.