![]() Of the various engine options, the 20d is the most common version. M Sport models make up the bulk of used X3s on sale, making xLine and SE versions harder to find. A broad price range will encompass cheaper models with second-hand specialists, through to the later models offered by BMW dealerships. Having proved so popular when new, there is a strong supply of X3s in the used marketplace. The Variable Damper Control adaptive suspension was £960, with the automatic transmission adding £1,660. Adding the Driving Assistance Package, with extra safety equipment, would cost £1,400. The X3 options list held the potential to turn a reasonably priced premium SUV into a very expensive one. The price range stretched through to the range-topping xDrive35d M Sport, which cost a considerable £47,145. Pricing for the last versions of the X3 range began with the sDrive18d SE, starting from £31,165. If you're looking for the newer version, you need our BMW X3 review. ![]() Post-2014 models in particular deliver on the expectations of a premium SUV, with a classy interior and ability both on and off the road. Having atoned for the errors of the original, there is plenty to recommend about the second-generation BMW X3. The boot is generous, with 550 litres of luggage capacity making it bigger than rivals like the Porsche Macan. Regardless of age, the X3 offers enough space to comfortably seat four adults, although adding a fifth to the centre rear seat can be a squeeze. Features such as satellite navigation and heating elements for the leather-clad front seats became standard equipment. With sturdier trim and more technology inside, they are more desirable than the earlier cars. The 2014 facelift brought a major improvement in the level of the X3’s interior quality. X3s equipped with four-wheel drive can venture further than you might think on muddy tracks, but try not to get carried away. In 2012, the sDrive version was launched, featuring a rear-wheel-drive layout aimed at road use only. Not all X3 models come with BMW’s xDrive four-wheel-drive system. The latter offers a fantastic blend of performance and economy. Choices range from four-cylinder units through to a truly impressive twin-turbocharged straight-six with 313PS. Yet it was what the market demanded for a premium SUV back in 2010, and they do suit the nature of the X3 well. Viewed through modern eyes, BMW’s decision to sell the X3 with diesel-only engine options might seem a little strange. Tellingly, BMW did offer an option to delete the M Sport suspension on these cars. It has bespoke suspension settings that can be very firm with optional bigger wheels. The SE and xLine versions are not as badly affected, but still feel taut, whereas the M Sport is on another level. It results in a harder ride than you might imagine, so abandon any ideas of cruising on pillow-like comfort. To make a large SUV drive like a sportier saloon, BMW fitted the X3 with stiffer suspension. This is aided by light but accurate steering, with the big wheels generating plenty of grip. The X3 outshines the rival Audi Q5, and gives the sportier Porsche Macan real competition for being the ultimate driving machine. The result was a practical and desirable SUV that manages to deliver a rare degree of fun. In short, BMW fixed the lack of interior space, addressed the on-road dynamics and took steps to improve the quality of the interior. Lessons were clearly learnt by the German brand, however, as the second-generation X3, launched in 2010, fixed many of the complaints about the previous version. ![]() The original BMW X3 felt a little bit rough and ready, with a cramped interior and compromised manners on the road. ![]()
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