2017 BMW X3 Review: Luxury SUV with Sports Car DNA

The luxury compact SUV segment has witnessed a surge in popularity over the past decade, with automakers vying to offer vehicles that strike the perfect balance between practicality, performance, and premium features. One model that has consistently stood out in this competitive landscape is the BMW X3. Originally introduced in 2003, the X3 has undergone several updates and redesigns, each iteration refining its blend of sportiness, comfort, and sophistication.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the 2017 BMW X3, dissecting its design, performance, interior amenities, technology, safety ratings, and overall value for money. Is the 2017 X3 worth considering for those in the market for a luxury SUV? The short answer is a resounding yes, provided you’re willing to pay a premium for the quintessential BMW driving experience and upscale appointments.

Exterior Design: Sleek and Sophisticated

The 2017 BMW X3 sports an evolutionary design that builds upon the model’s signature muscular stance and sleek lines. While not a radical departure from its predecessor, the updated styling exudes a sense of refinement and modernity that aligns with BMW’s design language.

At the front, the X3 features BMW’s iconic kidney grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights that come standard across all trim levels. The sculpted hood and pronounced character lines along the sides lend the SUV a dynamic and athletic presence, while the rear boasts LED taillights and a power liftgate for added convenience.

For buyers seeking a sportier aesthetic, BMW offers the M Sport package, which includes larger alloy wheels, a more aggressive front fascia, and unique exterior accents that further enhance the X3’s athletic appeal.

An optional panoramic sunroof not only floods the cabin with natural light but also contributes to the SUV’s upscale ambiance, making it a worthwhile consideration for those who value an open and airy interior environment.

Interior Amenities: Luxurious and Spacious

Step inside the 2017 BMW X3, and you’ll be greeted by a well-appointed cabin that exudes luxury and sophistication. The interior is a masterclass in premium materials, with high-quality plastics, leather upholstery (optional), and tasteful wood or aluminum trim adorning the surfaces.

One of the standout features of the X3 is its impressive passenger and cargo space, which is generous for its class. The front seats offer ample support and comfort, even during extended journeys, while the rear seats provide adequate legroom and headroom for adult passengers.

For those who prioritize versatility, the X3 delivers with its 60/40 split-folding rear seats, which can be folded flat to expand the cargo area from 27.6 cubic feet to a cavernous 63.3 cubic feet – ample space for hauling sporting equipment, luggage, or even small furniture items.

Optional amenities like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and multi-zone automatic climate control further elevate the X3’s luxury credentials, ensuring that both driver and passengers can enjoy a comfortable and personalized cabin experience.

Performance: Potent and Agile

Under the hood, the 2017 BMW X3 offers a range of potent and efficient engine options, catering to various performance and fuel economy needs.

The base sDrive28i and xDrive28i models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces a respectable 240 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample acceleration for everyday driving situations and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and responsive shifts.

For those seeking more power, the xDrive35i trim level features a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that churns out an impressive 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. This engine transforms the X3 into a true performance machine, propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds while still delivering a reasonably fuel-efficient EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

Additionally, the xDrive28d trim level offers a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine that generates 180 horsepower and a robust 280 lb-ft of torque. This diesel option is the clear choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency, boasting an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway while still providing ample power for daily driving and light towing tasks.

Regardless of the engine choice, the 2017 BMW X3 impresses with its agile handling and precise steering. The well-tuned suspension strikes a balance between sportiness and comfort, while the available selectable driving modes (Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport) allow drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.

What’s the fuel economy of the 2017 BMW X3?

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many SUV buyers, and the 2017 BMW X3 delivers respectable fuel economy ratings across its engine lineup:

• sDrive28i: 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway
• xDrive28i: 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
• xDrive28d: 27 mpg city, 33 mpg highway (diesel)
• xDrive35i: 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway

It’s worth noting that the xDrive28d turbodiesel variant offers the best fuel efficiency, with its impressive 33 mpg highway rating making it an attractive choice for those who frequently embark on long-distance trips or prioritize maximizing their fuel savings.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2017 BMW X3 is no slouch when it comes to technology and infotainment features, offering a range of advanced systems to keep occupants connected, entertained, and informed.

At the heart of the X3’s infotainment experience is BMW’s iDrive system, which is controlled via a central display and a rotary knob on the center console. While the interface can take some time to master, it offers a wealth of features, including navigation (optional), real-time traffic updates, and seamless integration with compatible smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (optional).

For audiophiles, the X3 can be equipped with a premium Harman Kardon sound system that delivers an immersive and concert-like audio experience, enhancing the enjoyment of your favorite tunes during commutes or road trips.

Additionally, the X3 offers cutting-edge convenience features like wireless charging and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot (optional), ensuring that your devices remain powered and connected on the go.

Safety Ratings and Features

Safety is a paramount consideration for SUV buyers, and the 2017 BMW X3 excels in this regard, earning a coveted 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Standard safety features on the X3 include a full suite of airbags, stability control, and a rearview camera, providing a solid foundation for protecting occupants in the event of a collision.

However, the X3 truly shines with its available advanced driver assistance systems, which can be bundled into various packages. These include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control – features that can enhance situational awareness and potentially help avoid accidents altogether.

What are the pros and cons of the 2017 BMW X3?

Like any vehicle, the 2017 BMW X3 has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick overview of the pros and cons:

Pros:

• Agile handling and responsive steering
• Powerful and fuel-efficient engine options (including a diesel variant)
• Spacious and well-built interior with ample cargo capacity
• Available advanced safety and driver assistance technologies
• Strong resale value and impressive build quality

Cons:

• Limited standard features, with most desirable options requiring additional packages
• Price can quickly escalate with options and higher trim levels
• Firm ride quality, especially with the M Sport suspension
• Rear seat legroom could be better for taller passengers
• Infotainment system can be confusing and has a steep learning curve

Pricing and Value

The 2017 BMW X3 carries a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $39,945 for the sDrive28i model and $41,045 for the xDrive28i variant. However, it’s important to note that the X3’s price can quickly escalate as you move up the trim levels and add optional packages and features.

For instance, the top-of-the-line xDrive35i, which comes equipped with the potent 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine and the Premium package as standard, starts at around $48,000. Additionally, options like the M Sport package, premium audio system, and advanced driver assistance features can easily add thousands of dollars to the bottom line.

While the X3’s pricing may seem steep compared to some of its competitors, it’s important to consider the brand cachet, build quality, and overall driving experience that BMW brings to the table. Moreover, the X3 has historically maintained strong resale values, which can offset some of the initial cost over time.

For buyers seeking to minimize their upfront expenses, BMW often offers competitive lease deals on the X3, making it a more accessible option for those who prefer to cycle through vehicles every few years.

The Verdict: Is the 2017 BMW X3 Worth Buying?

After carefully evaluating the 2017 BMW X3’s design, performance, interior amenities, technology, safety ratings, and value proposition, it’s clear that this luxury compact SUV stands out as a compelling choice in its highly competitive segment.

The X3’s strengths lie in its athletic handling, robust engine options (including a fuel-efficient diesel variant), spacious and well-appointed interior, and impressive cargo capacity. Additionally, the availability of advanced safety and driver assistance technologies, coupled with BMW’s reputation for build quality and strong resale values, further solidify the X3’s appeal.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge the X3’s shortcomings, such as its limited standard features, potentially firm ride quality (especially with the M Sport suspension), and a tech interface that can be challenging to master. Furthermore, the X3’s price tag can quickly escalate when adding optional packages and higher trim levels, making it a less attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

When compared to its closest rivals, such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, and Acura RDX, the 2017 BMW X3 holds its own in terms of performance, interior space, and overall driving dynamics. However, some competitors may offer more standard features or a more user-friendly infotainment system at a similar price point.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase the 2017 BMW X3 comes down to individual priorities and preferences. If you value the quintessential BMW driving experience, upscale interior appointments, and a blend of sportiness and practicality, the X3 is an excellent choice. However, if you’re primarily seeking a luxurious family hauler with a more generous list of standard features and a lower entry price, some of the X3’s competitors may better suit your needs.

For those considering the X3, the xDrive28i or xDrive28d variants, with their efficient yet capable engines and a judicious selection of optional packages, strike a compelling balance between performance, efficiency, and value.