2015 BMW X3 review
BMW X3 highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Agile, engaging handling
- Plenty of passenger and cargo space in the stylish interior
Cons
- Many rivals offer a fuel-saving hybrid option
- One of the most expensive crossover SUVs
Mileage (EPA estimate)
19 city, 26 highway, 21 combined
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Broadly talented 2015 BMW X3 is an excellent all-round premium SUV
The 2015 BMW X3 gets freshened up with some styling and equipment tweaks and adds a third engine to the lineup. The new 2.0-liter turbodiesel, badged xDrive28d, offers a compelling mix of power, ample torque, and strong fuel economy estimates. The gasoline engines remain unchanged and attractive. The sDrive28i and xDrive28i models use a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 240 hp, and the xDrive35i comes with a smooth, powerful 300-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. All models badged xDrive use all-wheel drive, while sDrive signifies rear-wheel drive. Every X3 comes with an automatic transmission, alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, dual-zone climate control, eight-way power seats with memory settings, and BMW's smart iDrive interface for the infotainment system, which includes 12 speakers, HD radio, USB and auxiliary inputs, and Bluetooth® connectivity.
The cabin exemplifies fine build quality, matching materials with a user-friendly design and ample passenger and cargo space. The X3 drives with a sportiness that's right at the top among luxury crossover SUVs, though for 2015 it has some stiff competition from Porsche's Macan. That the X3 still appeals against the agile newcomer underlines how far ahead of the pack it has been for a while. If you want fun-to-drive character mixed with space, for less than the Porsche, the X3 makes a strong case for itself.
All BMW X3 years
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each BMW X3 generation from 2012 to 2026
What is new for the 2015 BMW X3?
- The X3 is available in a variety of new trims, including the SDrive28i and XDrive28D.
- X3 trims have been upgraded with Panoramic Sunroof, Rear Sunshade, and Turbo Diesel Engine as standard equipment this year.
- Automated Cruise Control, Automated Parking, Blind Spot Monitor, and 20 Inch Plus Wheels features are now available as options on select trims.
2015 BMW X3 trims
Curious how BMW X3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesxLine: Includes a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, dual-zone automatic climate control, 6.5-inch infotainment display, adaptive headlights, and more.
M Sport: Adds 19-inch wheels, sport front seats, roof rails, sport steering wheel, special exterior trim, special interior trim, and more.
BMW X3 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2015 BMW X3
1. Three engine options
All 2015 BMW X3s transfer power from the engine to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, with one of three engine options. A 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine comes standard, producing 260 lb-ft of torque. The six-cylinder engine option is also turbocharged and is an inline configuration, producing 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. There's also a diesel option—a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 180 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.
2. Available All-Wheel Drive
As is common with BMW nomenclature, two-wheel-drive trims begin with an "s" and all-wheel-drive models begin with an "x." On the 2015 X3, all models except the sDrive28i are equipped with xDrive. The combination of confidence-inspiring all-weather competence, a finely appointed interior, and plenty of cargo space are some of the many reasons you'll love the 2015 BMW X3.
3. Plenty of cargo space
Cargo space isn't the only reason to purchase an SUV, but it's one of the areas where the 2015 BMW X3 shines. This luxury SUV provides seating for five people across two rows, with a generous 27.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. Fold down those rear seats and you'll get a solid 63.3 cubic feet of space—so if you're taking an adventure for two, you can bring just about anything you want! A storage package is an available option, which includes a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat.
4. Updated styling
The BMW X3 has been around since 2003, and with each passing generation the X3 builds upon its refined charm and continues to advance in available features and space. The BMW received an exterior refresh in 2015, which included updated front-end styling that also carried through to the rear end. This makes it a striking SUV that's bound to turn heads.
5. The latest technology
The 2015 BMW X3 is full of the latest technology on every trim, from driver aids to features focused on comfort and convenience. Standard features like lane departure warning and parking assist make the X3 feel like it has your best interests in mind, and dual-zone climate control helps keep you and your passengers at your individually preferred temperatures. Plus, an available automatic power liftgate with a sensor beneath the rear bumper allows you to open the rear liftgate when your hands are full.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2015 BMW X3, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
The Acura RDX is a two-row, five-seat luxury SUV with sporty flair. 2017 models have a standard 3.5L V6 engine with 279 hp and 252 lb-ft of torque. 2016 and newer Acura RDX models have 26.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, which can be expanded to 76.9 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.
Standard features on the 2016-2018 Acura RDX include:
All-wheel drive
LED headlights and taillights
Heated front seats
The Volvo XC60 is a spacious SUV with a choice of two engine options. Designated in trim levels of T5 and T6, the 2018 XC60 T5 comes standard with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the T6 is both supercharged and turbocharged. The T6 comes standard with AWD. The XC60 received a redesign in 2018 and provides 63.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down.
Standard features on the 2018 Volvo XC60 include:
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Heated front seats
The Q5 is Audi's midsize SUV with lots of standard technology and luxury features. It's a great choice if you're looking for a good combination of space and comfort. The 2017 Q5 has three engine options: a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.0L supercharged V6, and a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder that's also a hybrid. 2017 and newer Q5 models have 29.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, and 57.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Standard features on the 2017 Audi Q5 Prestige trim include:
Adaptive cruise control
Dynamic steering
Paddle shifters
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
4.6 out of 5
8 customer reviews| 5 Stars | 5 |
|---|---|
| 4 Stars | 3 |
| 3 Stars | 0 |
| 2 Stars | 0 |
| 1 Star | 0 |
RepairPal gave the BMW X3 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks BMW X3 16th out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the BMW X3BMW X3 features and specs
Curious how BMW X3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
SDrive28i 2WD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- CD Audio
- Cruise Control
- Leatherette Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Overhead Airbags
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Run Flat Tires
- Side Airbags
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automated Parking
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Front Seat Heaters
- Harman Kardon Sound
- Head Up Display
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Leatherette Seats
- Navigation System
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear Sunshade
- Rear View Camera
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Smart Key
- Sunroof(s)
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
2.0L
Horsepower
240
Torque (ft-lbs)
260
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
17.7
Wheelbase
110.6"
Overall length
183.8"
Width
74.1"
Height
66.1"
Leg room
F 39.9"/R 36.5"
Head room
F 40.7"/R 39.1"
Front tires
P245/50WR18
Rear tires
P245/50WR18
Seating capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
2015 BMW X3 FAQ
Various types of leather are available in the BMW X3, depending on the trim. While 2015 BMW X3 models come standard with leatherette seating material, the available premium package adds various colors of luxurious interior leather choices
Yes. The 2015 BMW X3 has seating for five and includes 27.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat up. This is more than enough space for a small family and all your things. The cabin is also full of sensible storage bins for the small items you need to take with you on daily journeys.
DSC stands for "Dynamic Stability Control" system. A flashing DSC light will come on your BMW when you're driving on a slippery surface. A steady light usually means that your dynamic stability control system needs to be serviced.
The trunk on the BMW X3 can be closed from the key fob, a button in the interior, or the exterior of the trunk. If the optional automatic feature is equipped, the rear hatch can be closed by waving your foot beneath the rear bumper.
More about the 2015 BMW X3
Color options
Exterior colors:
Alpine White
Black Sapphire Metallic
Carbon Black Metallic
Deep Sea Blue Metallic
Glacier Silver Metallic
Jet Black
Melbourne Red Metallic
Mineral Silver Metallic
Mineral White Metallic
Space Gray Metallic
Sparkling Brown Metallic
Interior colors:
Beige
Black
Black Nevada (Premium Package)
Black Nevada with Gray Contrast (Premium Package)
Ivory White Nevada (Premium Package)
Mocha Nevada (Premium Package)
Oyster Nevada (Premium Package)
Saddle Brown Nevada (Premium Package)
Sand Beige Nevada (Premium Package)
Interior details
2015 BMW X3 models provide seating for five and come standard with leatherette seating material. A premium package is an available add-on that offers luxurious interior leather choices. Various interior trim materials are standard, including genuine wood, piano black, chrome, and metal-look accents. Front-seat legroom in the 2015 BMW X3 is 39.9 inches, with 36.8 inches of legroom in the back.
Child seat details
Up to three car seats can fit in the rear of the 2015 BMW X3. This includes front- or rear-facing car seats, booster seats, and LATCH-based car seats. Both outboard seats have anchor systems, which can make installing and removing car seats a simple task. The 2015 BMW X3 is a competent family hauler with easy access to the back row, plenty of legroom, and a large rear cargo area.
Performance
Despite its elevated SUV seating position, the 2015 BMW X3 features sports car characteristics and an engaging driving experience. Models equipped with the turbocharged inline-six engine have the most get-up-and-go, at 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. With the six-cylinder engine, the X3 can sprint from zero to 60 mph in about 5.3 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). All-wheel drive adds to the sporty prowess of the X3; all models except the sDrive28i come standard with AWD. An eight-speed automatic transmission is also standard and provides smooth delivery of power.
Year comparison
2010-2017 BMW X3 (Second Generation)
The second-generation BMW X3 offers improved power over the first generation, with the introduction of a 260-hp 3.0L six-cylinder engine. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, and xDrive AWD is available for the first time. A turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder became the new base engine in 2013, and all X3 models were upgraded to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2015 model year brought a facelift to the front end and a slight redesign to the rear end styling, which carried through the 2017 model year.
2018-Present BMW X3 (Third Generation)
The third-generation BMW X3 got a complete redesign. New standard features include accident detection, tri-zone automatic climate control, and sport seats. While the second generation did offer an M Sport trim package, the third generation has an M Performance-specific model: the X3 M40i. 2019 models gained standard front and rear parking sensors, and navigation became standard in 2020. A plug-in hybrid model (xDrive30e) also became available in 2020.
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