BMW is in the process of refreshing its existing lineup and the BMW X3 G20 is among the latest models to receive a facelift. The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) has undergone numerous revisions, making it more modern and digitalized than before. The BMW X3 is an important model for the brand, which is why they want to make it a more appealing offer through a revised range structure. In addition to the new look, the X3 (and consequently the X4) is sportier and more versatile than ever before.

Exterior

This is still the G20 X3 we’ve known since 2017, but it’s been heavily remastered. The new look is much sharper, featuring narrower headlights, even more pronounced kidney grilles (what a surprise), and a more aggressive lower front fascia with vertical air vents, creating a triangular frame for the bumper. Overall, it’s a more menacing front end, emphasizing the SAV’s sportier aspirations.

The revised X3 can be had with the optional 19-inch aerodynamic wheels, finished in Jet Black that were previously reserved for the iX3. Otherwise, you can still have the standard 18-inch alloy wheels, finished in silver.

The rear now looks cleaner and less busy. Small changes in the right places have completely changed the appearance of the X3. Most notable are the new LED taillights, which thanks to a black border, have a more clearly defined texture. The three-dimensional pincer graphic bolsters the emphasis on horizontal lines and sharp angles. The reflectors themselves are moved further down and are located just above the new diffuser.

The redesign also comes with new paint finishes. You can now choose from a total of 11 exterior finishes, from the regular range. There are two non-metallic finishes – Alpine White and Black, while the metallic finishes are represented by Skyscraper Grey (from December 2021), Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect, Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, and Black Sapphire.

The M-exclusive colors are M Brooklyn Grey metallic, M Carbon Black, Aventurine Red, and Tanzanite Blue. BMW Individual finishes are also available and are expected to have new additions soon.

Interior

Just like the exterior, the BMW X3’s interior has also experienced significant revision. The infotainment touchscreen is now 10.25-inch as standard on all vehicles, while a 12.3-inch is optional. The 2022 X3 also adopts the ala-4-Series center console. Over-the-air updates enable the X3 to stay up to date, while the enhanced capabilities of the Intelligent Personal Assistant should make interaction with the X3's functions a lot easier. With this, the X3 effectively becomes our humble servant.

Another standard feature is the Sports seats with Sensatec upholstery. The seats and parts of the interior can be finished in a wide variety of colors, among which Black, Canberra Beige, Cognac, and Taco Ted. The optional sports seats are available in Vernasca leather in black, as well as in Mocha, Oyster, and Taco Red.

You can also choose between different trim finishes like Aluminum, high-gloss Oak, open-pore Ash, and the new high-gloss Piano black finish. If you go for the M-Package, you’ll get the Aluminium Rhombicle dark finish as standard, while Carbon Fiber is optional.

As far as compact luxury SUVs go, the 2022 BMW X3 is one of the most generous in terms of interior space. Moreover, you get 19.4 cubic feet (550 liters) of minimum cargo capacity, which can go up to 56.5 cubic feet (1,600 liters) thanks to the standard 40:20:40-split rear seats.

Drivetrain

In terms of engines, you still have a plethora of turbocharged inline-four and 3.0-liter turbocharge inline-six units that are either diesel or petrol, as well as a plug-in hybrid. The big thing here is the addition of a 48-volt Mild Hybrid system on all petrol engines.

The base versions are the 20i and 20d, with 184 and 190 horsepower, and 221 pound-feet (300 Nm) and 295 pound-feet (400 Nm) respectively. In terms of 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) times, the 20i needs 8.0 seconds, while the 20d does it in 7.5 seconds.

The 30e might be the most interesting non-performance proposition, thanks to its ability to drive 26 to 31 miles (42 – 50 km) on electricity alone, while consuming 108.6 to 117.6 mpg (2.0-2.6L/100 km) and producing 45 to 59 g/CO2, according to WLTP.

The 30e has the 20i powertrain, but with the addition of a 12 kWh battery pack and an electric motor, for a combined output of 292 horsepower and 310 pound-feet (40 Nm). This allows for a 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) time of 5.8 seconds.

2022 BMW X3 30e specifications

All that is, of course, managed by the Xdrive AWD system and an eight-speed ZF automatic. As a result, the 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) time is 4.7 seconds.

According to WLTP standards, combined fuel consumption is 26.7 mpg (8.8L/100 km).

2022 X3 M40i specifications

Pricing

When the revised 2022 BMW X3 hits the market, it will have a starting price of $44,695. This will get you an X3 30i. It is unknown at this point whether the 20i will be available on all markets, but if it makes it as the base model, on the US market, it is expected to start at around $39,995. On the other hand, the M40i will command a $58,795 price tag.

Competition

Mercedes GLC-Class

The Mercedes GLC has always been one of the X3's main competitors. Just like its Bavarian rival, the representative from Stuttgart is about to receive a substantial revision. It is a well-known fact that Mercedes, BMW, and Audi are constantly matching each other, segment for a segment.

The X3 and GLC couldn't be a better example, as they offer similar size, similar performance stats, and even identical cargo space at 19.4 to 56.5 cubic feet (550 to 1,600 liters).

The Mercedes does offer a lot more drivetrain options than the X3 - a whole 11 of them. However, only the petrol engines get mild-hybrid technology. One of the most interesting options s the GLC 300de diesel PHEV, with 306 horsepower and 516 pound-feet (700 Nm). What's even more impressive is that it can return up to 130 mpg (1.8L/100 km), while being capable of hitting 60 mph in 5.9 seconds.

Of course, there is also a GLC 300e, which is a PHEV with a petrol engine. It's lighter and even quicker to 60 mph, taking just 5.4 seconds.

There is also, not one, but three AMG options, the most powerful of which is the 510-horsepower AMG GLC 63 S.

Mercedes also has a coupe version of the GLC, which will take on the X4.

Price-wise, the revised GLC is expected to start at around $45,000. The diesel variants are also expected to become MHEV.

Read our full review on the Mercedes GLC-Class

Volvo XC60

Volvo has always been an alternative to the German trio for those wanting to stand out. In recent years, Volvo, thanks to no small part to Chinese funding, has become a formidable player in the luxury segment and their XC60 is one of their most versatile vehicles.

The Volvo XC60 was revised for 2021 and scores a few subtle touches, like the redesigned front bumper, new grille, and addition of new wheel designs. Of course, you still get the signature "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight design.

The infotainment system has experienced a significant upgrade. The Sensus system is now replaced by an Android-based interface, said to dramatically improve the user experience.

Other important upgrades concern safety, as the XC60's radar, camera, and ultra-sonic sensors have been improved to provide more accurate data.

Volvo is done with diesel, at least as far as the XC60 goes. You get a variety of MHEV and PHEV options, all based around 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct-injected, inline-four engines.

Power ranges from 197 horsepower and 221 pound-feet (300 Nm) for the B4 to 405 horsepower and 494 pound-feet (670 Nm) for the Polestar Recharge T8 PHEV.

With the XC60, you get one of the best interiors in the segment and a good amount of interior space. Cargo capacity is a bit less than the X3, at 17.1 to 49.8 cubic feet (483-1,410 liters), although still respectable.

Price-wise, you are looking at a $43,00 starting price, while the top-of-the-line Polestar will set you back $71,000.

Read our full review on the Volvo XC60

Conclusion

Even now, when BMW is slowly making the transition to a complete EV lineup, the X3 is one of its most important models, still powered by internal combustion engines. The model has come a long way, since its first incarnation of a smaller, scruffier version of the X5.

The BMW X3 combines great driveability, plenty of equipment (some of which still optional), great connectivity, and amazing versatility. It is BMW's idea of what the perfect compact SUV should be if you don't feel the need to buy the biggest SUV out there. The X3 is compact enough to feel nimble, especially in M-guise, but still offers plenty of room and practicality. On top of that, it's still enough of an SUV to be able to comfortably take you on a tour, off the asphalt.

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