2018 BMW X3 xDrive30i

The 2018 BMW X3 xDrive30i is a bold and rugged small SUV that offers three major body styles: the xLine, Luxury, and M Sport. I will focus on the M Sport version.

The 2.0 L TwinPower Turbo inline four-cylinder engine with Valvetronic variable valve control and Double-VANOS camshaft timing control, plus high-precision direct injector, delivers optimum power and efficiency. The Driving Experience Control serves up Eco Pro, Comfort, and Sport modes to tailor the power and response to the driver’s needs.

The eight-speed automatic transmission with sport and manual shift modes, along with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, moves you through the gears quickly and effortlessly.

The X3’s powertrain delivers an EPA rating of 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, for 25 mpg combined. This roughly translates to 4.0 gallons per 100 miles.

The 2018 BMW X3 is a vehicle designed for individual needs, giving you agility, developed utility, and superb power.

The xDrive all-wheel drive system offers dynamic stability assistance, brake drying, and brake standby features with dynamic traction control and hill descent control.

The ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, together with an anti-lock braking system and dynamic brake control, provide additional stability to the vehicle and confidence to the driver.

Inside, the 10-way power front sport seats with driver seat memory allow for instant comfort. Unlike some sport seating in competitors’ vehicles, BMW seats are wide throughout without narrowing in the upper back.

The interior trim is oak wood for a natural grace. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats provide back-seat passengers with the same comfort found in the front seats.

The driver commands the vehicle with the three-spoke leather-wrapped multi-functional sports steering wheel. The iDrive 6.0 infotainment system with on-board computer controller, seven programmable memory buttons, USB audio connection, and Bluetooth hands-free functionality provide the technical foundation for driver communication.

The automatic three-zone climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers with adjustable speed, and power tailgate keep the cabin comfortable and make cargo loading and unloading a breeze.

As for the exterior, the LED low-beam and halogen high-beam headlights, LED fog lights, and power-folding heated side mirrors help to keep outside events in focus even when foul weather approaches.

The 19-inch light-alloy wheels, roof rails in satin aluminum, and satin aluminum exterior trim bring an additional beauty to the outer appearance.

The audio system provides AM/FM radio plus CD and MP3 playback with high-fidelity amplification and speakers.

The primary safety and standard security features include the front and rear Head Protection System (HPS), driver’s and passenger’s front air bags, a supplemental restraints system with advanced technology, and seat-mounted front and side impact airbags.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the X3 line starts at $41,000 for the rear-wheel drive sDrive30i. If you’re opting for the xDrive AWD, that brings the starting price up to $42,650. Its more potent sibling, the X3 M40i, is priced at $54,500.

After deciding on the xLine, Luxury, or M Sport style for the xDrive 30i, you can choose a feature tier: Convenience Tier, Premium Tier, and Executive Tier. On top of all of these choices, you can still include driving and parking assistance packages plus individual features. The price can quickly add up.

Driving this beautiful BMW X3 will give you a great sense of pride. The performance is terrific. The vehicle is comfortable, quiet, and has explosive power. And the technology is cutting-edge and easy to employ.

Warranty
4-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty
12-year/unlimited-mile Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
4-year/unlimited-mile 24-hour Roadside Assistance Program

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or at [email protected].