2022 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 2022 BMW X3 has refreshed styling and an M Sport appearance package is available for the base model. The M40i gains a 48-volt mild hybrid system, but it doesn’t affect horsepower. The X3 M sees torque rise from 442 to 457 and with the Competition Package, torque jumps from 442 to 479. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid has been dropped. 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 combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid system 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 with pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, 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.