2018 BMW X3 review
BMW X3 highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Roomy, upscale cabin gains standard equipment for 2018
- More active driver safety aids now available
Cons
- There's Apple CarPlay® but no Android Auto™ connectivity
- BMW played it safe with the new X3's styling
Mileage (EPA estimate)
20 city, 27 highway, 23 combined
Pricing for current inventory
From $19,998*
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All-new 2018 BMW X3 builds on its predecessor's success
You could be excused for missing BMW's all-new 2018 X3 since it looks so much like its predecessor. That's understandable because BMW had no trouble finding buyers for its compact luxury SUV even in its outgoing year. The 2018 is bigger, with more passenger and cargo space, though neither area was really lacking in the previous model. BMW also finessed, rather than overhauled, the interior materials and layout to very good effect.
The engine lineup is familiar, though the diesel has quietly been dropped. The entry-level engine, badged xDrive30i, is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged unit with 248 hp. Above that there's the M40i, that M badge underlining BMW's more overtly sporty intent in its top-flight model. The M40i's 355 hp from its turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine gives this X3 the firepower to really enjoy the X3's fine handling. Both models are all-wheel drive with an automatic transmission. Standard equipment is more generous than before, and both X3 models come with a decent base level of features. Even so, there's a sizable array of individual and option packages to help personalize your X3, usually with a corresponding swell in price when you do so. It's worth it, though, and while the rival Porsche Macan remains the favorite driver's pick, the X3 runs very close, and adds far more practicality, for a good deal less money.
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 2018 BMW X3?
- The X3 is available in a variety of new trims, including the M40I and XDrive30i.
- The SDrive28i, XDrive28D, XDrive28i, and XDrive35i trims have been discontinued for 2018.
- X3 trims have been upgraded with Parking Sensors and Rear View Camera as standard equipment this year.
- A/C Seat(s), Lane Departure Warning, Rear Air Conditioning, and DVD Video System features are now available as options on select trims.
2018 BMW X3 trims
Curious how BMW X3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesxDrive30i: Includes a 248-hp 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine, LED daytime running lights, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ integration, and more.
M40i: Includes a 355-hp turbo 3.0L six-cylinder engine; M Sport exhaust system, brakes, and suspension; variable sport steering; and more.
BMW X3 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2018 BMW X3
1. Convenient wireless technology
New for the 2018 BMW X3 is a 10.25-inch touchscreen to accompany the infotainment system. Standing upright atop the dash, the touchscreen is comfortably in reach and offers a simple way to navigate the newly available wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity. For your convenience, a wireless charging pad is available so your compatible device can charge while you listen to your playlist. This technology is perfect if you want to stay connected during the commute to work or school, or on longer trips with the entire family.
2. Standard all-wheel drive
The 2018 BMW X3 comes standard with all-wheel drive on all trims, which means extra peace of mind in any road conditions. The all-wheel-drive system can adapt, too, as its intelligent drivetrain sends torque to the rear or front wheels and to each axle individually, as needed. Even if you live in a climate that gets a lot of rain, sleet, or snow— or you want to take the X3 off-road—this all-wheel-drive crossover allows you to feel confident that your vehicle can handle anything.
3. Versatility for daily life
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or an urbanite looking for a premium SUV to occasionally haul a trailer or cargo, the X3 can suit both equally well. The 2018 X3 has flexible seating and fold-flat rear seats with a 40/20/40 split, allowing you to fit longer items even while carrying a passenger or two in the back. The cargo area includes 28.7 cubic feet of space, a privacy shade, and a lip to ensure your cargo doesn't fall out when you open the back. When your hands are full, you'll appreciate the motion-activated power liftgate so you can be truly hands-free.
4. Driving comfort
The premium interior of the 2018 BMW X3 includes leather seating surfaces and power driver's and passenger seats as standard; heated and ventilated seats are optional. The front seats also have thigh extenders and adjustable bolstering, plus four-way adjustable headrests offering maximum comfort for a variety of sizes and heights. All surfaces are soft to the touch, offering the luxury feeling you crave.
5. Performance option
2018 brought the debut of the BMW X3 M40i, which is the performance version of the X3. This athletic model gets a whopping 355 horsepower and a long list of sporty elements, including an M Sport exhaust system, M Sport brakes, M Sport suspension with M performance-specific tuning, and variable sport steering. If driving enjoyment is on your list of must-haves in a compact SUV, the M40i will certainly be a source of surprise and delight for daily commutes or longer weekend adventures.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2018 BMW X3, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
The 2017-2021 Audi Q5 is a compact SUV that seats five comfortably and offers ample cargo space. The standard panoramic sunroof, wood accents, and leather surfaces make this premium interior stand out on its own. Power eight-way front seats plus reclining and folding 40/20/40 rear seats maximize flexibility for passengers, pets, or cargo in this compact crossover.
The 2017-2021 Audi Q5 features:
Standard 220-hp 2.0L turbocharged engine or available 272-hp 3.0L V6 engine
All-wheel drive
Available SQ5 performance model
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a compact crossover that offers comfort, available all-wheel drive for driving confidence, and a performance trim. For model years 2017-2021, the GLC offers standard LED daytime running lights on all trims, as well as available adaptive headlights that turn with the car. Standard dual climate control allows you and your passengers to keep your zone tuned to your comfort.
Standard features on the 2017-2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC include:
Seven-inch infotainment screen
Five drive modes, from Comfort to Sport+
Standard 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine or optional V6 engine (AMG model)
The 2017-2021 Volvo XC60 is a smooth and quiet crossover that feels confident in all driving conditions, especially when equipped with available all-wheel drive. The XC60 includes a long list of advanced driver-assistance features, including cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, and rear park assist sensors.
Standard features on 2017-2021 Volvo XC60 models include:
Leather seats
Cruise control
Leather steering wheel and gear selector knob
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Ratings & reliability
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
M40I 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 4WD/AWD
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- CD Audio
- Cruise Control
- Heated Mirrors
- Leatherette Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Overhead Airbags
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Parking Sensors
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Run Flat Tires
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- A/C Seat(s)
- 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
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Navigation System
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Entertainment System
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear Sunshade
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)
Engine size
3.0L
Horsepower
355
Torque (ft-lbs)
369
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
17.2
Wheelbase
112.8"
Overall length
186.1"
Width
74.7"
Height
66"
Leg room
F 40.3"/R 36.4"
Head room
F 40"/R 38.5"
Front tires
P245/50WR19
Rear tires
P245/50WR19
Seating capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
2018 BMW X3 FAQ
If tech features are important to you, you'll find the 2018 BMW X3 is here to please. A 10.25-inch touchscreen is standard for the 2018 BMW X3. This controls various aspects of the infotainment system, including smartphone integration so you can keep connected when traveling.
For those that live in colder climates, the 2018 BMW X3 delivers in unfavorable weather conditions. The 2018 BMW X3 includes standard all-wheel drive, making it a capable vehicle in snowy driving conditions or rougher terrain.
Yes, the 2018 BMW X3 is available with wireless Apple CarPlay as part of the Premium Package.
The Premium Package on the 2018 BMW X3 includes a heated steering wheel, 19-inch V-spoke wheels, heated front seats, heated rear seats, navigation system, head-up display, advanced real-time traffic information, remote services, and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
More about the 2018 BMW X3
Color options
Exterior colors:
Alpine White
Black Sapphire Metallic
Carbon Black Metallic
Dark Olive Metallic
Dark Graphite Metallic
Glacier Silver Metallic
Jet Black (xDrive30i only)
Mineral White Metallic (xDrive30i only)
Phytonic Blue Metallic
Terra Brown Metallic (xDrive30i only)
Interior colors:
Black
Black / Blue
Canberra Beige / Black
Cognac
Mocha
Oyster
Interior details
The interior of the 2018 BMW X3 is full of premium surfaces, including leather, soft-touch armrests and dash surfaces, and even wood accents. The interior is spacious enough for a family and refined for singles and couples seeking luxurious and comfortable driving. With a plethora of interior color options available, the fashionable cabin is sure to please even the most discerning eye. Comfort is paramount, with highly customizable seating for you and your passenger in the front seat, adding to the pure enjoyment of the 2018 X3.
Child seat details
The rear bench of the 2018 BMW X3 has two LATCH anchors for infant and child car seats and can accommodate three car seats across, depending on their size. There are three lower anchors across the second row. With the ride height and width of the BMW X3, it's easy to place children in the car seats in the rear. And taking an infant bucket seat in and out is also simple and straightforward, with helpful wide-opening rear doors.
Performance
The 2018 BMW X3 offers two zippy engines. The base xDrive30i includes a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine generating 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Upgrade to the performance-oriented M40i for a turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder engine producing 355 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, and an eight-speed automatic transmission to drive the wheels.
Year comparison
2011-2017 BMW X3 (Second Generation)
In 2011, BMW kicked off the second generation of the X3 with styling updates, a larger overall size, and new features such as a push-button start, BMW's infotainment system, and an adjustable backrest for the rear seat with 40/20/40 split-folding. A refresh in 2015 brought slightly revised exterior and interior styling and the latest version of the infotainment system. Two appearance packages—the xLine and M Sport—were also new for this update.
2018-Present BMW X3 (Third Generation)
The 2018 BMW X3 was totally redesigned and is the third and current generation for the X3. While the exterior received only minor changes (like a larger kidney grille), the X3 is also 2.2 inches longer overall. The interior was updated and modernized for this generation, with an upgrade to the infotainment system, adding available gesture control and Apple CarPlay connectivity, as well as a 3D surround-view camera system, ventilated front seats, and a touchscreen.
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