2021 BMW X3

Pros: Sport-sedan-like handling agility; generous passenger room front and rear; respectable fuel economy in 30i

Cons: Shifter isn’t intuitive; stingy levels of standard equipment, and options add up fast; some complicated audio controls

CG Says: The 2021 BMW X3 gains standard Active Driving Assistant (forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning), satellite radio, and Android Auto functionality. The X3 M Competition is no longer a model, but is now a package for the X3 M. Added late in 2020 was a Plug-in Hybrid xDrive30e that combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor for a total of 288 horsepower. The xDrive30e can travel an estimated 18 miles on electric power alone. The X3 slots above the X1 and X2 in BMW’s crossover lineup. BMW also sells an X4, a fastback-roofed version of the X3. The X3 was redesigned for 2018. The base 30i has a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 248 hp and the M40i has a turbo 3.0-liter 6-cylinder that is rated at 382 hp. The X3 M is power by a turbocharged 3.0-liter in-line six the develops 473 hp or 503 hp with the Competition Package. All models have an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 30i offers sDrive rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive. All other models have standard all-wheel drive only. Available safety features include forward-collision warning and city collision mitigation, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, front and rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Other available features include heated/ventilated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate controls, head-up instrument display, Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The X3 delivers the BMW brand’s trademark athletic handling and performance combined with the practical benefits of a crossover SUV, and those qualities were only heightened with the excellent 2018 redesign. However, standard equipment levels aren’t particularly generous, and you’ll pay plenty for options.