The 2013 BMW X3 ranks 6 out of 9 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 20 published reviews and test drives of the BMW X3, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Reviewers like that the 2013 BMW X3 meshes good performance, upscale amenities and practicality to create a compact SUV that is fun-to-drive, fuel-efficient and spacious enough for a family of five.
The base 2013 BMW X3 has a four-cylinder engine, which is new for the 2013 model year, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The optional six-cylinder engine also has an eight-speed automatic, but it comes with paddle shifters. All X3 models have all-wheel drive, and the X3 averages 21/28 mpg city/highway with the base engine, which is good for a luxury compact SUV. Overall, test drivers are very pleased with the X3’s performance. They like that the engines are powerful, yet deliver good gas mileage. Several reviewers also appreciate that the X3 has sharp steering and a smooth, comfortable ride.
In a class that tends to place performance before practicality, reviewers say the X3 still offers good cargo space, as well as plenty of front and rear passenger space for adults. In fact, one test driver says this quality makes the X3 an appealing choice for families. Reviewers add that the X3’s interior design and materials quality meet their expectations for the class. The X3’s list of standard features is also class-competitive and includes features such as a USB port, Bluetooth and an infotainment system. Test drivers think that most of the audio and climate controls are easy to use, but say the infotainment system does take some getting used to.
In details the new BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder’s displacement of 1,997 cc delivers maximum power of 240 hp / (180 kW) at 5,000 rpm, while due to the twin-scroll turbocharging, developing maximum torque of 260 lb-ft at just 1,250 rpm and remaining constant up to 4,800 rpm. Therefore, the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW X3 xDrive28i does for just 6.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited up to 130 mph. Furthermore this new engine is the most powerful in a new generation of 4-cylinder engines.
Comfort & Utility
The 2013 BMW X3 is available in two trim levels: naturally aspirated xDrive28i and turbocharged xDrive35i.
The xDrive28i comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, keyless entry with push-button ignition, a power tailgate, auto start/stop, leatherette upholstery, 8-way power front seats with driver memory, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, automatic climate control, iPod/USB and Bluetooth connectivity, a 12-speaker audio system, and the iDrive infotainment system with the basic small, square display.
The xDrive 35i adds a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, adaptive xenon headlamps, LED brake lights, wood interior trim, a panoramic sunroof, and a sportier steering wheel.
The most notable option, in our view, is the navigation system, which radically changes the iDrive system, replacing the standard screen with a beautiful 8.8-inch widescreen display?and adding hard-drive-based operation with digital music storage. There are many other options, of course, including sport seats, adaptive dampers, a power tailgate, 19-inch wheels (now available on both models via the M Sport package), and a 16-speaker, 600-watt audio system.
In our interior evaluation of the X3, we immediately noticed that BMW's got the commanding driving position nailed. The front seats are nice and tall, affording an expansive view over the hood?and since the X3's got plenty of glass all around, outward visibility is great no matter where you're looking. We'd consider springing for one of the packages that offer the sport seats, though, as the beefed-up side bolsters and manual thigh-support extenders are worth the stretch.
The X3's gauges will be comforting to BMW aficionados, employing the classic white-on-black numerals that change to orange-on-black at night. Interior materials are almost uniformly premium, and the attractively restrained dashboard design is another element that's straight out of the traditional BMW playbook.
The X3's rear seat is elevated like those in front, yet there's plenty of headroom, so even lanky passengers will have plenty of space. We actually prefer the X3 to the larger X5 in this regard. As for cargo space, there's a respectable 27.6 cubic feet of it behind the second row and 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded down.
Driving Impressions
The X3 is a tall vehicle, no doubt about it, but it remains exceptionally composed in corners for a crossover SUV. That makes its smooth, quiet ride all the more remarkable?BMW really nailed the suspension tuning in this truck. Throw in a choice of two powerful and efficient turbocharged motors, and you've got the clear driver's choice among entry-level luxury crossovers.
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