2022 BMW X3: Review, Trims, Specs, Price, New Interior Features, Exterior Design, and Specifications | CarBuzz

The BMW 3 Series has long been the standard-bearer of luxury sports sedans. Since 2003, the BMW X3 compact luxury crossover has been working hard to achieve that same status for its segment. By and large, it’s accomplished that goal extremely well despite having formidable rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. Now in its third generation, the X3 has been refined and perfected over the years and is now at the top of its game. Currently offered in multiple trims and with optional all-wheel drive, the X3 is the ideal combination of luxury, sportiness, and status for millions of very satisfied owners. It looks equally at home when parked at Costco or a country club.

BMW kindly loaned us a 2022 X3 xDrive30i for a week-long test and, as expected, it delivered the goods. The xDrive30i comes standard with AWD and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This is the entry-level engine and, for less money, there’s the rear-wheel-drive-only X3 sDrive30i powered by the same engine. Those looking for even more power can upgrade to the X3 M40i with its 382-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine.

Don’t expect the X3, regardless of engine and RWD vs. AWD, to be a serious off-roader. It’s not. What it can do is handle minor rough pavement situations, such as gravel roads and the like, snowy weather, and gentle inclines. Above all, it’s a luxury performance SUV, or Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) as BMW likes to say. It is the 3 Series of SUVs.