2023 BMW X3 Performance

The base 30i models continue to use BMW's proven 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower. In the sDrive30i, power goes to the rear wheels, and the X3 will reach 60 mph in a swift six seconds. The heavier xDrive30i has exactly the same 0 to 60 time and 130-mph top speed. BMW has a habit of making the most of what it's got where its powertrains are concerned, and the base X3 is quicker than the base Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, despite the Merc having more horsepower and torque. The X3 xDrive30i, in our opinion, is quick enough for the majority of buyers. But, of course, there are always those with a craving for speed.

We think that the M40i is the best X3 of all, something you'll agree with just minutes into a test drive. It doesn't have the bone-jarring ride of the X3 M, which we review separately, but is enormously fun to drive thanks to its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six. With AWD traction, it will fly off the line and reach 60 mph just 4.4 seconds later. With performance tires, a top speed of 155 mph is possible. Once again, this is quicker than the more powerful AMG GLC 43 (4.7 seconds).

When properly equipped, the X3 can tow up to 4,400 lbs.

Two spirited powertrains provide the X3 lineup with flexible, potent, and refined performance. In the case of the sDrive30i and xDrive30i, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine produces 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. An assertive yet smooth eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters comes as standard. This engine is eager and responsive, if not truly thrilling, but it does what's asked of it and doesn't have any glaring weaknesses. Whether driving in town or on the highway, it feels strong.

The M40i sounds more like a "proper" BMW thanks to its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, an engine that is widely used throughout the brand's range. It makes 382 hp and 369 lb-ft and is also complemented by an eight-speed automatic. The inline-six has been bolstered by the addition of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It adds an instantly available 11-hp boost, and brake energy recuperation is a feature of this starter/generator system. The start/stop system's functionality is enhanced, and a gliding function between 15 and 99 mph switches off the gas engine temporarily, which has obvious efficiency benefits. Most of the time, you'll be happier with accessing the full 382 hp; the M40i is fast enough to render the X3 M superfluous.

Despite the addition of the 48-volt mild-hybrid system for the M40i, this model's efficiency hasn't been improved. The sDrive30i returns 23/29/25 mpg city/highway/combined. With the xDrive30i, gas mileage figures are 21/28/24 mpg. The M40i gets remarkably close to its less powerful siblings considering that it's vastly more powerful. It will return an EPA-rated 21/26/23 mpg.

All models have a 17.2-gallon gas tank that allows for a range of between 395 and 430 miles.