New BMW X3 Review: This car has a BIG problem

TL;DR

The new BMW X3 offers style but faces tech issues.

Transcript

This is the new BMW X3. It's the all new fourth generation model. It's got a new look, a new interior with new technology. The body is also longer, wider, yet lower than before. But thankfully, the engines are the same as before. But is it good enough for you to buy one and to help it remain BMW's bestselling car? Let's find out. I'm M Watson and y... Read More

Key Insights

• The new BMW X3 features a controversial design, with a large grille and sporty elements, especially in the M50 version.
• Interior design is minimalist but plagued by cheap-feeling materials and a convoluted infotainment system.
• The infotainment system is problematic, occasionally requiring resets, and lacks physical buttons, complicating usability.
• Engine options range from a 2-liter diesel to a 3-liter turbo petrol, with the M50 offering impressive performance.
• The X3's pricing starts at £48,000, but with options, it can reach £77,000, raising questions about value for money.
• Storage is generous, with large door bins and a spacious boot, though some features like seat releases are inconvenient.
• Driving dynamics are strong, with good handling and comfort, but the plug-in hybrid's added weight affects performance.
• The X3 is practical and enjoyable to drive, but its tech issues and interior quality may deter some buyers.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the design features of the new BMW X3?

The new BMW X3 features a controversial design, marked by a large grille and sporty elements, especially in the M50 version. The front includes real vents and an aggressive bumper, while the side has black roof bars and M Sport mirrors. The rear boasts quad tailpipes and distinctive tail lights.

Q: How is the interior of the BMW X3?

The interior of the BMW X3 is minimalist, with a large curved screen housing the dials and infotainment system. While the seats are comfortable, the cabin is marred by cheap-feeling, scratchy plastics. The infotainment system is convoluted, lacking physical buttons, which complicates usability.

Q: What are the engine options for the BMW X3?

The BMW X3 offers several engine options: a 2-liter diesel with 197hp, a 2-liter turbo petrol with 208hp, and a plug-in hybrid combining a 2-liter turbo petrol engine with an electric motor for 299hp. The M50 model features a 3-liter straight-six turbo engine, delivering 398hp.

Q: What are the pricing details for the BMW X3?

The BMW X3 starts at approximately £48,000 and can rise to around £67,000 for the M50 model. However, adding options can increase the price to £77,000. This pricing raises questions about the car's value for money, especially given the interior quality and tech issues.

Q: How is the storage capacity in the BMW X3?

The BMW X3 offers generous storage, with large door bins and a spacious boot providing 570 liters of space. However, some features, like the lack of seat release levers in the boot, are inconvenient. The plug-in hybrid version loses some underfloor storage due to battery placement.

Q: How does the BMW X3 perform on the road?

The BMW X3 delivers strong driving dynamics, with good handling and comfort. The M50 model accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds, faster than BMW's claimed 4.6 seconds. However, the plug-in hybrid's added weight affects performance and handling, making it less agile.

Q: What are the challenges with the BMW X3's infotainment system?

The BMW X3's infotainment system is problematic, occasionally requiring resets and lacking physical buttons. This design complicates usability, as many functions are controlled via the touchscreen. Users may find the system convoluted, with too many apps and unclear navigation.

Q: What is the overall verdict on the BMW X3?

The BMW X3 should be shortlisted for consideration. Despite its tech issues and interior quality concerns, it remains practical and enjoyable to drive. Its strong handling, comfort, and diverse engine options make it appealing, though potential buyers should weigh these against the vehicle's high cost and tech challenges.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The new BMW X3 blends a controversial design with sporty features, particularly in the M50 model. While the exterior impresses, the interior suffers from cheap materials and a confusing infotainment system. Engine options are diverse, offering a range from diesel to powerful petrol variants.

• Starting at £48,000 and reaching £77,000 with options, the X3's value is debatable. Storage is ample, with a spacious boot and large door bins, though some features are inconvenient. Despite tech issues, the X3 remains practical and enjoyable to drive, with strong handling and comfort.

• The infotainment system poses challenges, lacking physical buttons and requiring resets. Driving dynamics are commendable, with good handling and comfort, though the plug-in hybrid's added weight affects performance. The X3 offers practicality and driving enjoyment but faces scrutiny over tech and interior quality.