After more than two decades of producing small SUVs with a sporty edge, the 2026 BMW X3 is the perfect example of what BMW has learned. The X3 comes in two model trims, the xDrive30 that uses a 2.0-liter turbo-four with 255 horsepower, while the M50 uses a 3.0-liter turbo inline-six with 393 horsepower for a true BMW experience.
Both make use of an eight-speed automatic transmission, a 48-volt hybrid system, and standard all-wheel drive. Although the ride prioritizes comfort above performance, the chassis has enough chutzpah to make your journey more enjoyable. Its sleek cabin can accommodate five people, if the backseat occupants are petite or well-acquainted. In a crowded compact SUV Market of deserving competitors, the X3’s lighthearted and pragmatic nature makes it stand out.
Interior & Comfort
Stepping inside you get a tone of modern tech and features. To start off the BMW X3 comes with new power-adjustable sport seats that are heated and ventilated come standard. Also, the faux-leather upholstery comes in three different color options.
Along with real leather, there’s also an alternate combination of imitation leather and suede. For the first time on a BMW product, a woven fabric instrument panel composed of recycled polyester is also available. With the seats up, the new X3 has 32 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the back, 10% more than the previous model, according to BMW.
Infotainment
The New BMW X3 is the first to sport BMW’s most modern iDrive 9 infotainment system. Surprisingly, the iDrive rotary knob is still present, despite its noticeable absence from the newly updated X1 and X2 vehicles.
Inputs can also be entered into the system through voice commands, steering wheel controls, and the touchscreen. A head-up display is not required. With BMW Digital Premium, you can play games in single- or dual-player modes and watch videos while the car is stopped. The X3 now offers Spotify and Amazon Music as audio streaming options.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Under the hood,The xDrive30 comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine produces 255 horsepower when paired with a 48-volt hybrid system. However, the M50 is the true performer thanks to its 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine that produces 393 horsepower. It alsohas the same hybridization technology. Both use all-wheel drive and an automated transmission with eight speeds.
When you drive the 2025 X3, you’ll note that its improved suspension and stiffer body structure enhance upon the already excellent driving manners of the previous generation model. On that note, the M50 comes with an adaptive suspension as standard, while the 30 xDrive can have one as an option.
There are three drive modes: Personal, Efficient, and Sport to customize reactions to the demands of the driver. For towing up to 4850 pounds, the X3 can be equipped with an optional trailer hitch.
0-60 MPH
On performance, BMW claims that the 2026 BMW X3 will reach 60 mph in 6.0 seconds. When fitted with the performance tires, the xDrive M50 can reach a high speed of 155 mph, while the 30 xDrive can reach 130 mph.
Fuel Economy & Consumption
The 2026 X3’s fuel efficiency has not yet been disclosed by the EPA. However, the 2025 xDrive30 model received ratings of 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The M50 model received ratings of 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the interstate.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Although BMW provides the bare minimum of driver-assistance systems as standard equipment, a full suite of functions is available. Among the essential safety features are
- Automatic emergency braking with front collision warning as standard
- The standard lane-departure warning
- Adaptive cruise control is available
How much is the 2026 BMW X3?
The 2026 BMW X3 prices range from $52,075 for the xDrive30 model to $67,075 for the BMW X3 M50 variant.
Source: EDMUNDS
