2017 BMW X3

by BMW of Silver Spring

More than an SUV

Sometimes an SUV is more than an SUV. The 2017 BMW X3 continues BMW’s “sports activity vehicle philosophy” by applying the style, luxury, and driving dynamics of the carmaker’s sedans and coupes to a high-riding crossover. The result is a vehicle that’s just as happy tackling the daily commute as a 3 Series sedan, but can do a lot more when called upon, especially when the going gets tough.

For 2017, the iDrive interface included with the optional navigation system is updated to the latest version. The xDrive35i now comes with standard "Comfort Access" keyless entry/ignition, power lumbar adjustment, and satellite radio.

Performance

An Ultimate Driving Machine needs a powerful and responsive engine, and the 2017 BMW X3 has a whole selection of them. They’ll keep you entertained without breaking the bank when it comes time to fill up.

The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive in the X3 sDrive28i and all-wheel drive in the X3 xDrive28i.

Both models with this engine will do 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and achieve an EPA-rated fuel economy of 24 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway).* All X3 models have a top speed of 130 mph.

Alternatively, there’s also a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel four-cylinder available with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive in the X3 xDrive28d. This engine produces 180 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, which gets the X3 from 0 to 60 mph in 8.0 seconds. The main benefit of a diesel is fuel economy, and here the X3 xDrive28d doesn’t disappoint with an EPA-rated 30 mpg combined (27 mpg city, 34 mpg highway).*

For buyers desiring a little more power, the X3 xDrive35i offers a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. This engine is available only with all-wheel drive and the same eight-speed automatic transmission as in the other X3 models.

The X3 xDrive35i will do 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds and gets an EPA-rated 22 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway).*

Features

The 2017 BMW X3 is available only as a five-door, five-seat crossover SUV, though BMW designates its X series lineup as Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV). Note that BMW also offers the X4 “sport activity coupe,” which is essentially the same vehicle with different styling. Prices for the X3 start at $39,250.**

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, power-folding heated side mirrors, eight-way power front seats, wood and chrome interior trim, a 40/20/40-split folding rear bench seat, automatic climate control, power tailgate, tilt/telescoping steering column, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, and more. Buyers also get to choose from M Sport and xLine trim “lines” that come with their own specific exterior and interior styling elements.

Optional features include the Cold Weather Package (heated seats and steering wheel, retractable headlight washers), Dynamic Handling Package (variable sport steering, dynamic damper control), Navigation Package (navigation, head-up display, real-time traffic information, Remote Services, BMW Online and BMW Apps), and other equipment.

Design

The 2017 BMW X3 has chiseled and dynamic exterior styling carried over from other models in the BMW X utility vehicle family. Its twin-circular headlights flare away from the traditional BMW twin-kidney grille, with supplementary round lights integrated into the front bumper. The poised stance is somewhere between a tall SUV and road-hugging sports car.

The interior benefits from similar attention to detail. Tasteful chrome and wood trim pieces give the cabin an upscale feel, while the sporty steering wheel and cleanly-designed gauge cluster show that entertaining the driver is also part of the X3’s mission. A 40/20/40-split folding rear bench seat and a useful 27.6 cubic feet of cargo space (63.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded) are also on hand to make the X3 one of the most versatile vehicles in its class.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 BMW X3 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, the BMW Advanced Safety System, BMW eAssist Call emergency response service with a 10-year subscription, and a full complement of airbags. In addition, the Driver Assistance Package adds park distance control and a rearview camera, while the Driver Assistance Plus package includes Active Driving Assistant, ACC Stop & Go, Active Blind Spot Detection, Surround View, and Speed Limit Info.

Verdict

The 2017 BMW X3 incorporates the virtues BMW is known for into a package that’s just the right size for just about any situation.

For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact or visit us BMW of Silver Spring at 3211 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

*EPA-estimated figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on speed, driving habits, trip length, and driving conditions; actual mileage may be lower.

**MSRP excludes destination & handling fee of $995, tax, title, license, and registration

Image Credit: BMW