Pros: Sport-sedan-like handling agility; tall windows make for good visibility; decent fuel economy for the level of performance
Cons: Performance-oriented models ride stiffly; stingy levels of standard equipment, and options add up fast
CG Says: After a significant freshening for 2015, the 2016 BMW X3 sees no changes of note. The X3 is a premium compact crossover SUV. The 28i is powered by a 240-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and the 35i has a 300-hp turbo 3.0-liter 6-cylinder. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 2016 BMW X3 delivers the sportiness and refinement you expect from the brand in a package that’s small but highly versatile. Non-linear throttle response remains an annoyance, at least on the base xDrive28i model, but this premium-compact SUV has enough other positive attributes to make it worth your consideration. Just keep an eye on the bottom line. Base prices are reasonable, but they quickly move upward when options are added.
| Class | Premium Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | BMW |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | sDrive28i: $38,950 AWD xDrive 28i: $40,950 AWD xDrive 28d: $42,450 AWD xDrive 35i: $46,800 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 240 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 28 |
| Optional Engine turbo-diesel 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 180 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 27 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 34 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder |
| Horsepower 300 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 19 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 27 |
