2015 BMW X3 Quick Spin Review

2015 bmw x3

The 2015 BMW X3 is the third generation of a modern-day pioneer, as the original X3 helped launch a new segment for mid-size premium crossovers—or Sports Activity Vehicles, in BMW parlance—back in 2003. This fresh model range builds on a fair amount of success from its predecessors to provide next-gen amenities and performance in a relatively nimble and versatile package. Also notable: The 2015 X3 family is the first to offer a model in a rear-wheel-drive configuration, without the BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

Styling

Although not radically different from its predecessor, the new X3 fine-tunes its appearance with a particularly bold dual-circle headlight design that can be enhanced by full LED illumination; the look also is complemented by circular front fog lights and multi-dimensional surfacing across the body of the vehicle. The new model year sees the introduction of four new exterior finishes and an equal number of new alloy wheel designs as well, while the XLine and M Sport option packages allow for yet further individualization; that latter package includes a number of performance enhancers, too, highlighted by sport-tuned steering, transmission and suspension systems.

New upholstery and trim options also are available for the interior, which benefits from subtle chrome accents, revised center-console cupholders, and cargo space comes to the fore when the vehicle’s versatile 40/20/40 second row is folded. At that point, X3 owners can fit up to 63.3 cubic feet of gear in the back cargo hold.

Performance

There are now four separate powertrains for the X3, starting with the sDrive28i that relies on BMW’s highly effective 2.0-liter, four-cylinder Twinpower unit. That sophisticated engine features a twin-scroll turbocharger, multiple BMW valve technologies and direct injection, with all 240 hp and 260 lb.-ft. of torque routed to the rear wheels. The xDrive28i then adds intelligent all-wheel drive.

There’s more power on tap in the xDrive35i, where a 3.0-liter TwinPower V6 lays in wait with 300 horses and a like amount of lb.-ft. of torque, and a real difference-maker is offered for the xDrive28d. That model sports a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine that packs 180 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque and posts an EPA line of 27 mpg city/34 mpg highway/30 mpg combined.

And each X3 also lives up to the brand’s reputation for driving dynamics, with the entry models able to reach 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds and the range-topper ready to rip off 0-60 sprints in 5.3 seconds.

Safety

Earning a five-star overall safety score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2015 BMW X3 also was recognized by NHTSA for recommend technologies like forward collision warning and lane-departure warning. Of course, the X3 actually goes beyond those features by offering Pedestrian Warning, City Collision Mitigation, automatic parking assistance, blind-spot detection, automatic crash notification, and surround- and rear-view camera setups.

Pricing and Features

The price of admission to the 2015 BMW X3 family starts at $38,500 for the sDrive28i, increases to $40,500 for the xDrive version, reaches $42,000 with the diesel-powered X3 and is capped off at $45,500 by the xDrive35i. That model also makes the ideal showcase for the X3’s portfolio of premium content, which includes BMW ConnectedDrive Service and Apps for infotainment, along with navigation, advanced real-time traffic information, a Harman Kardon “Hi-Fi Sound System Professional,” BMW iDrive display and controller, a “smart” automatic rear liftgate, and a panoramic moonroof.