POPULARITY brings with it its own set of issues.
Staying at the top of your game is always going to be difficult in a dynamic world of innovation and changing preferences.
In the particularly demanding automotive industry, where constant innovations and disruptions sometimes deliver seismic shifts, popularity may last but for a fleeting moment.
Before the advent of electric vehicles, the BMW 3 Series was the bestseller for the German marque. Well made, well sized, it drove well and appealed to those who wanted a family sedan. But as changes rocked the scene — the arrival of SUVs, EVs and new models — the mantle had to be passed on.
In 2023, the BMW X3 assumed the bestseller tag for BMW, as the public preference for larger, roomier and more versatile vehicles continues to grow.
Review follows after the video.
Into its 20th year, the all-new fourth generation BMW X3 will make its public debut at the Singapore Motor Show in January 2025.
STORM-ASIA took the BMW X3 for a test drive ahead of the launch.
BMW X3 Initial Impressions
The restyling helps in the X3’s outward appearance, where the more upright, boxy look is progressively being replaced by a lower, more shapely profile. The coupe SUV is becoming increasingly popular, and this approach has been adapted and adopted in the new X3, which is longer, broader but lower than its predecessor.
These changes have helped not just in its looks, but in its handling as well, making the X3 a more engaging car to drive.
It delivers an adequately powered performance, but without the rocking sensation that comes with a lot of SUVs.
Despite its greater length, it’s pretty tight for legroom in the back, especially if you’ve got tall folks in front pushing the seats all the way back. A lot of the spare space can be found in the boot. And if you needed yet more space you could always drop the rear seats and have enough room to ferry quite a few things.
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The front is dominated by the large kidney grilles which light up, to further accentuate their size.
From certain angles, the X3 looks bulky and less appealing than its side profile would suggest. At the rear, to mask an otherwise flat back — the exhaust is tucked out of sight — there are protrusions and facets that attempt to give it more character.
BMW X3 Engine
The X3 20 xDrive, reviewed here, brings a smooth, 2-litre mild hybrid engine into the wave of EVs washing into the industry.
The power it packs is not explosive, but it measures out the 142kW and 310Nm of torque such that it seems a lot faster than the 8.5 seconds it takes to hit 100kmh from standstill.
It could be the cosseted cabin that helps in that regard, but it delivers a comfortable and easy drive.
There are drive mode options, with Sport giving you a bit more grunt if you’re after some spirited driving, or Normal allowing you to have a relaxed drive.
The engine in the X3 is further proof that petrol engine technology has progressed significantly and could remain a viable and in-demand option, regardless of the rise of electric vehicles.
BMW X3 Interior
Since this is a new version of the X3, there are some changes to the layout of the cabin. Though, sometimes, it’s change for the sake of change.
The air-con vents are now controlled by touch on the door. Which means if you want to change the settings en route you will have to hunt for it; not easily done by touch since there is only a slight ridge to guide you.
You can also hunt for it — along with other controls for your car — on the large touchscreen, which, most of the time, is a hit and miss affair when you’re driving. Now made even more challenging with a larger screen, which dominates the dashboard; something you’re seeing in more cars these days.
Design Curiosities
A cavernous gap opens up in the centre console with a crystal M3 logo floating in its seeming emptiness. That’s probably a good spot to plant your family crest, otherwise I see no reason to have it there. There’s also a slot to charge your phone wirelessly and place another beside it along with a couple of USB C slots.
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Piano finish in high contact areas of the centre console means you’ll often be cleaning smudges. There’s a plastic feel to the interior, with the door finishes easily marked and scuffed. The veganza sports seats are vegan friendly, catering to a demanding audience that expects to be heard and wields enough influence to shape views with their opinions.
It’s a different world to when the 3 Series was at the height of its popularity.
But today’s cars are loaded with way more features and with the continued move towards EVs and autonomous driving, it’s probably only a matter of time before functionality becomes more important than the driving experience.
RATING
BMW X3 20 xDrive M Sport
Styling: 7/10
Interior: 6.5/10
Connectivity: 8/10
Ride: 7.5/10
Handling: 8/10
Power: 7.5/10
Overall: 7/10
Price: $349,888*
*Please reconfirm price with dealer.
Read more STORM-ASIA car reviews HERE.
