Ahead of the curve, BMW’s compact crossover provides driving excitement with actual utility. Witness the ins & outs of the 2013 BMW X3 right here.
BMW X3 Trims and Features
The X3 is a compact luxury crossover with seating for up to 5. For the 2013 model year, BMW offers the X3 in two trims, differentiated by two engine choices. The xDrive 28i, from $38,500, utilizes a TwinPower Turbo inline-4 that’s brand new for the nameplate. Drivers familiar with the X3 will notice that the new engine features increased torque, from 221 to 260 lb.-ft. The xDrive 35i starts at $43,600 and features a turbocharged V6 and 300 horsepower.
The X3 is known for its superb handling within the crossover SUV segment, standard all-wheel drive, a high quality interior, and strong safety characteristics. Expect plenty of upscale choices when building your X3, including surround sound, aluminum and wood interior trim options, and a head-up display with lane departure warning- part of the Driver Assistance Package ($2,100).
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BMW X3 Performance
BMW offers two engine choices for the 2012 X3. Replacing the inline-6 from last year is the xDrive 28i’s 2.0 liter TwinPower Turbo inline-4, worth 240 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. If you need a little more, the xDrive 35i features a 3.0 liter turbocharged V6 capable of 300 horsepower that’s matched by 300 lb.-ft. The turbocharged V6 will get the 4,200 pound xDrive 35i from 0-60 in 5.5 seconds, according to BMW.
Either engine comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission featuring a manual shift mode, as well as standard xDrive all-wheel drive.
BMW X3 Fuel Economy
EPA estimates tag the X3 xDrive 28i at 21/28/24 (city/highway/combined) MPG. The more powerful xDrive 35i receives a slight dip in numbers, coming in at 19/26/21 MPG. Both estimates are gauged using premium fuel.
BMW X3 Interior Highlights
Class and comfort intermingle well within the cabin of the X3. Various levels of leather and tech await owners- depending on how much you want to spend- and interior space is said to buck the ‘compact’ label, which is a good thing. There’s room enough for most adults in the 60/40 split rear seats, (there’s also a 40-20-40 option) and the iDrive system- though it sometimes gets a bad rap- provides easy access infotainment.
Though it gets pricey, drivers can stock the X3 with upscale features like heated front & rear seats, 8-way power sport front seats, and steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.
Expect a class average amount of cargo space, maximized by the fold-down rear seats. Drivers also have a water repellant floor and power liftgate to work with.
BMW X3 Safety
X3 standards include ventilated antilock disc brakes with a brake drying feature, stability control, rain sensing wipers, and Electronic Damping Control that monitors suspension and helps reduce braking distance. As per the BMW brand, drivers can also choose to load up on safety options. Available tech comes in the form of front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera with top view, head-up display, lane departure warning system, and BMW Assist emergency services.
Crash ratings haven’t yet been released for the 2013 X3, but don’t expect much of a drop off from last year’s model- the 2012 X3 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick.
BMW X3 Summary
The X3 can get pricey, but you get what you pay for. Drivers have a pair of potent engines to choose from, along with great handling, interior plush, and decent fuel numbers. That all adds up to a great car. Put yourself in the 2013 X3 now, with CarWoo!
