If you are looking for an SUV that is comfortable for the family and feature-packed—and you have a decent budget—you might want to consider the BMW X3.
The luxury SUV segment is gaining significant popularity in the country; consequently, BMW has introduced its SUV to the Indian market to capitalize on this trend. Amidst stiff competition, BMW has launched the third-generation X3, which is more spacious, luxurious, and tech-laden. The new BMW X3 is a handsome SUV with a commanding road presence. It offers a great set of features and boasts a luxurious interior.
While city driving is comfortable—thanks in part to the capable 3.0-litre diesel engine—and the suspension performs well, we know BMW is capable of delivering an even better driving experience.
If there’s one aspect of this SUV that helps it stand out from the crowd, it’s its handling. The X3 takes corners with a sedan-like attitude, and the wide tires, along with the sporty suspension, ensure a pleasant driving experience. If you’re an enthusiast looking for a sporty-handling SUV, the X3 is your best bet. But if you prioritize comfort, features, or outright luxury, there are others in this segment that may be better for you.
If you’re a true driving enthusiast, you should also look for the petrol xDrive30i variant, which is priced similarly at ₹56.9 lakh (ex-showroom). It packs a new twin-turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 255.5 PS of maximum power and 350 Nm of peak torque between 1450 and 4800 rpm. It is also mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and features steering-mounted paddle shifters.
BMW X3 Exterior –
In terms of design, the third-generation BMW X3 has evolved; it now looks more aggressive than the previous model and is equipped with BMW’s latest technology. The kidney grille has grown in size and features an active airflow system that opens and closes built-in vents based on the engine’s cooling requirements. This is complemented by new adaptive LED headlights and LED fog lamp.
BMW X3 Interior –
The interior of the BMW X3 offers a premium experience, thanks to the use of high-quality materials. The dashboard features soft-touch leather, while the console is accented with stone-finish, piano black, and steel-finish elements. The fit, finish, and build quality meet German standards, and you also get the BMW display key that allows for various functions. However, the interior does not quite match the look and feel of the 5 Series or 7 Series.
Another thing you notice inside the BMW is how quiet the cabin is. BMW has used what is known as ‘acoustic glazing’ on the windscreen for improved insulation, and it has certainly done the job.
As expected, you get a commanding seating position with seats that feature power adjustment and a memory function. The instrument cluster is a 12.3-inch digital multifunction display that is clear and easy to read. The graphics change according to the drive mode and Eco mode; the cluster displays average and instantaneous fuel efficiency, and also offers an option to limit the top speed.
The center console is familiar, having been carried over from the 5 and 7 Series. At the top sits a highly responsive 10.2-inch touchscreen displaying vehicle information, navigation, and audio details; however, you miss out on the gesture controls found in its sedan counterparts. In terms of connectivity, you get standard Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay, but no Android Auto. There is also a wireless phone charging pad located below the 3-zone AC controls, and for audiophiles, a 600W, 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system.
BMW X3 Side View –
At the rear, the bench seat is relatively flat, making it easier to accommodate three passengers; however, the transmission tunnel does cause some inconvenience for the person sitting in the middle. On a rainy day, partially opening the massive panoramic sunroof allows you to enjoy the weather while also enhancing the sense of spaciousness within the cabin. There is ample legroom and knee room to comfortably accommodate larger individuals, and the seatback can be reclined by up to 9 degrees, ensuring comfort even on long journeys.
2026 BMW X3 Performance –
The X3 20d is powered by a robust 2.0-litre diesel engine. While this might seem slightly small for a mid-sized SUV, it performs its job effectively. Upon starting the engine, the first thing you notice is the near-absence of vibration, and the motor remains barely audible below 1,800 rpm. However, there is a slight delay in power delivery, with some turbo lag evident below 1,700 rpm.
You get four drive modes to choose from: Comfort, Eco Pro, Sport, and Adaptive. Selecting one alters the steering feel, throttle responsiveness, power delivery, and—via the adaptive suspension—the ride quality. For city driving, Comfort mode felt the most suitable, as gear shifts are gentler and power delivery is largely linear. While this mode allows for easy overtaking, there is a slight delay before the power kicks in; even when it does, the experience isn’t particularly thrilling.
On the highway, the peak torque of 400 Nm—available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm—allows the car to cruise effortlessly without feeling strained. The 8-speed torque converter shifts gears quickly, ensuring a smooth driving experience.
Switching to Sport mode makes the power delivery more aggressive, though an initial lag remains. Consequently, flooring the throttle results in a sudden jolt followed by linear acceleration. This happens during overtaking maneuvers as well, and the sensation can become somewhat fatiguing over time.
2026 BMW X3 Engine –
Eco Pro mode dials back the X3’s performance, featuring gentler throttle response. As previously mentioned, the instrument cluster continuously displays real-time efficiency, and the top speed is also limited. Adaptive mode, on the other hand, uses GPS data to adjust engine and suspension settings accordingly. However, during our time with the X3, we used Comfort mode the most. And that is because..
2026 BMW X3 Handling –
In Comfort mode, the suspension damping is soft, delivering a pleasant and comfortable ride. It effectively smooths out bumps, and the suspension operates quietly. However, the ride quality isn’t flawless; at times, sharp vertical movements are felt inside the cabin, and the suspension takes a moment to settle after traversing larger bumps. Consequently, even during city driving, there is constant movement within the cabin. While we didn’t have any major complaints, the excellent suspension setups found in the 5 and 7 Series have raised our expectations for BMW.
BMW X3 Rear Profile –
Shifting into Sport mode stiffens the dampers, allowing you to feel the road surface more acutely while effectively keeping body roll in check—so well, in fact, that you almost forget you are driving an SUV. And that is the X3’s best attribute: its handling. The X3 tackles corners and winding roads with great composure. The steering, though slightly heavy, feels direct, and the SUV holds the line you choose with precision. It puts a smile on your face through a series of corners, and even high-speed highway curves are handled with absolute ease.
Then there is the question of off-roading. The BMW X3 comes equipped with xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, but it lacks a dedicated off-road mode in its settings. While it can easily handle rough roads or a drive to a campsite, we would advise against taking it through particularly rugged or muddy terrain.
FAQ
Q. How much does a BMW X3 cost?
Ans. The price of BMW X3 starts at Rs. 59.90 Lakh and goes upto Rs. 65.90 Lakh. BMW X3 is offered in 2 variants – the base model of X3 is xDrive30i SportX Plus and the top variant BMW X3 xDrive30i M Sport which comes at a price tag of Rs.
Q. Do BMW X3 have problems?
Ans. After a 90000 km run oil and coolant leaks and timing chain guide problems become a lot more frequent in nature.
Q. Is BMW X3 a good car?
Ans. BMW has the best tech in the BMW X3, Like two digital dashboard displays as well as a
host of driver-assistance features. Driving is best in class.
