2017 BMW X3 review
BMW X3 highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Generous passenger and luggage space in the upscale interior
- An engaging, enjoyable drive for a SUV
Cons
- It's never been cheap, and rivals offer as much for less money
- Driving and infotainment tech trails its newer rivals
Mileage (EPA estimate)
19 city, 26 highway, 21 combined
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The 2017 BMW X3 is in fine form even toward end of this generation
Even in the BMW X3's last year of this generation, this premium compact SUV gets top marks. The 2017 model bows out on a high: Its sharp driving dynamics, plentiful cabin space, and comfort and quality, mixed with a choice of three powerful yet efficient engines, combine to make for a very appealing all-rounder. The lineup remains sDrive28i, xDrive28i, xDrive28d, and xDrive35i, with sDrive signaling rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive.
It matters little which X3 you choose because all of them drive well, with nice chassis balance, crisp steering, and ample performance. The diesel is the most pragmatic of the three engine choices. It lacks the charisma of its gasoline alternatives but rewards with fuel-and-forget-it-for-a-while range, thanks to its impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy. The xDrive35i remains a compelling, quick, and sharp-handling choice that mixes family duties, fun, and power in equal measure. As the range-topping model, it also has fewer option boxes to tick. If we have one complaint, it's that the X3 has always been a bit expensive and requires lots of extra-cost options to match the features of many of its rivals. The redesigned model for 2018 builds on the strengths of this car, but the 2017 X3 is still one of the toughest cars to beat among luxury compact SUVs.
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 2017 BMW X3?
- X3 trims have been upgraded with Overhead Airbags, Smart Key, Panoramic Sunroof, and Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment this year.
- Heated Steering Wheel and Apple CarPlay features are now available as options on select trims.
2017 BMW X3 trims
Curious how BMW X3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiessDrive28i: Standard features include 18-inch wheels, automatic headlights, rear privacy glass, power liftgate, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, SensaTec simulated leather upholstery, 40/20/40-split folding rear-row, ambient lighting, Bluetooth® functionality, nine-speaker audio system, and more.
xDrive28i: Adds all-wheel drive
xDrive28d: Swaps out to a diesel powertrain
xDrive35i: Adds adaptive xenon headlights, keyless ignition, front-row power lumbar, panoramic moonroof, 16-speaker Harman Kardon® audio system, and more.
BMW X3 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2017 BMW X3
1. All-Wheel Drive
Look out for an xDrive model if you'd like standard all-wheel drive. This gives you additional control in poor weather but also allows you to head off-road when the mood takes you. This opens up so many opportunities for camping trips and vacations, but even if you don't want to do some light off-roading, the added grip is incredibly fun on country roads.
2. Extensive features
The base model comes well equipped with a range of features you might only find on high-end trims from other manufacturers. This means that all 2017 BMW X3s have automatic climate control, ambient lighting, Bluetooth® connectivity, and more. If that's not enough, however, look out for an X3 with one of the available packages to upgrade interior luxury, tech features, and more.
3. Plush interior
With leatherette seating as standard, you know the BMW X3 is going to be a great place to spend time. With options such as heated and ventilated front seats, you can add to the standard luxury of this SUV. Whichever one you choose, you and your passengers can sink back into comfortable seats and enjoy the ride.
4. Dynamic driving
Despite being a luxury SUV, the 2017 BMW X3 is also a driver's car. Its responsive handling, potent engine options, and ride stability make it great fun to drive no matter where you're going. The standard 240-hp, turbocharged 2.0L engine is plenty to add a little excitement to your daily commute, but if you want more, the xDrive35i has a 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder engine with AWD.
5. Passenger comfort
Treat your passengers to a little luxury. The snug seats are comfortable and the available heated front seats will have everyone excited to sit up front with you. Plenty of in-cabin storage makes it easy for your crew to store their things whether it's for the school run or on a road trip.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2017 BMW X3, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
The Jaguar F-Pace is the epitome of luxury. 2019–2020 models feature a beautiful-sounding V8 engine, but there's always the option of putting your favorite tunes on too—something that's made more enjoyable thanks to the premium sound system. 2019 models have available Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity but these become standard from 2020.
The 2017–2020 F-Pace base model has these standard features and more:
Sliding panoramic roof
Powered tailgate
380-Watt Meridian™ sound system
All Surface Progress Control
This good-looking SUV is bound to turn heads no matter where you go. The third generation ushered in a new look and a wealth of features. With just one trim available, this means the 2019–2021 Acura RDX is a good choice if you want lots of standard kit in an SUV that's as capable a commuter vehicle as it is a road trip companion.
The 2019–2021 Acura RDX features as standard:
Triple-sealed doors and acoustic glass
10.2-inch HD infotainment screen
True Touchpad Interface™
Multi-view rear camera
Another luxury SUV, the Audi Q5 features everything you might expect from a vehicle of this marque. The second generation began in 2018 but look to 2020 models if you want something that fits your green-conscious lifestyle. The Q5 plug-in hybrid offers 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
The 2018–2021 Audi Q5 base trim—Premium—features as standard:
Leather upholstery
Rearview camera
Hill descent control
Ambient LED interior lighting
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
4.4 out of 5
16 customer reviews| 5 Stars | 9 |
|---|---|
| 4 Stars | 6 |
| 3 Stars | 0 |
| 2 Stars | 1 |
| 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
- Apple CarPlay
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automated Parking
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Front Seat Heaters
- Full Roof Rack
- Harman Kardon Sound
- Head Up Display
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Leather Seats
- Leatherette Seats
- Navigation System
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Parking Sensors
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear Sunshade
- Rear View Camera
- Running Boards
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Smart Key
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
2.0L
Horsepower
240
Torque (ft-lbs)
258
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
P245/50VR18
Rear tires
P245/50VR18
Seating capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
2017 BMW X3 FAQ
When new, the 2017 BMW X3 has a top speed of 130 mph. For the fastest zero to 60 times, choose the xDrive35i. According to the manufacturer, it can achieve that feat in 5.3 seconds (when new).
The 2017 X3 is well equipped for hauling, offering 27.6 cu-ft of fixed cargo storage. When the rear-row folds down, your available space expands to 63.3 cu-ft, with a flat floor that makes for smoother loading.
With eight inches of ground clearance, sporty handling, and three all-wheel drive trims that offer descent control and a limited-slip differential, the 2017 X3 is a confident SUV that can take you down forest trails and across sandy plains with ease.
From 2018, BMW offers ventilated front seats as an available option. The 2017 X3 is no slouch however, dual-zone automatic climate control keeps everyone comfortable.
More about the 2017 BMW X3
Color options
Exterior colors:
Alpine White
Black Sapphire Metallic
Carbon Black Metallic
Chestnut Bronze Metallic
Deep Sea Blue Metallic
Glacier Silver Metallic
Jet Black
Melbourne Red Metallic
Mineral Silver Metallic
Mineral White Metallic
Space Gray Metallic
Interior colors:
Beige
Black
Ivory White
Mocha
Oyster
Saddle Brown
Sand Beige
Interior details
The 2017 X3 has space for five people across its two rows with leatherette upholstery as standard. Look out for the available packages for full leather seating. Standard power-adjustable front seats make it easy to find the right driving position but look out for the optional heated seats if you'd like to up the luxe factor.
Child seat details
This five-seat compact SUV can comfortably accommodate your youngest passengers. The 2017 X3 has two full sets of LATCH restraints, appointed at the outboard seats. The slimmer middle seat also has an upper tether fixture. The lower LATCH anchor locations are clearly indicated, but deep-set. They may be hard to find initially, with some force required when installing the seats. Plenty of space in the rear row means all types of child seats can be fitted, including front- and rear-facing.
Performance
The 2017 X3 is a responsive compact SUV that comes with three powertrain options, and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive trims. An eight-speed automatic is standard across the board. The sDrive28i and xDrive28i both feature the standard engine—a 240-hp, turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder. According to BMW test results, when new, it can achieve a zero-to-60 time of 6.2 seconds.
Under the hood of the xDrive35i is a 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder engine, that revs up to 300 horsepower and delivers an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined
.If you're shopping for a diesel option, the xDrive28d is powered by a 180-hp, 2.0L turbo diesel engine that can achieve a zero-to-60 time of 7.8 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new).
Year comparisons
2011–2017 BMW X3 (Second Generation)
The 2011 model year ushered in a new generation of the BMW X3. With a bold new look, it turned heads, but the range of engine options is what makes this such a great SUV. For 2015, the BMW X3 received a facelift with revised headlights and a few new interior features such as cupholders.
2018–2022 BMW X3 (Third Generation)
For the X3's third generation, it received an upgraded infotainment system. The turbodiesel engine was discontinued but the performance oriented M40i model was added to the line-up. In 2019, a rear-wheel drive model was added, and previously optional driver-assistance features became standard.
In 2020, more models were added to the X3 line-up. Including a plug-in hybrid and another performance model. Changes in 2021 were minimal but included the addition of standard Android Auto™ connectivity and lane-departure warning.
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