Other than the full-fat X3 M, there are three models to choose from in the BMW X3 lineup, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, and M40i. The 30i derivatives are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 248 hp and 258 lb-ft, and power is sent to either the rear wheels, or all four, as denoted by the xDrive trim. M40i models have a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 hp and 369 lb-ft for all four wheels. In all cases an eight-speed automatic does duty.
The base models ride on 19-inch wheels, and have a roof spoiler and LED headlights. Moving to the M40i adds more aggressive wheels, Shadowline exterior trim and an aero kit. The M40i also gets a panoramic moonroof. All models have faux leather as the default upholstery choice, power-adjustable front seats, a memory system for the driver, and front/rear parking sensors. Multi-zone climate control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, fatigue/focus alert, and speed limit information is standard. The top trim gets a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, which is 10.25 inches on the base modes.
The BMW X3's price starts at an MSRP of $46,200 for the sDrive30i, increasing to $48,200 for the xDrive30i. If the much more powerful M40i is the one you want, it comes in at a price of $61,000. These prices all exclude a destination charge of $995 in the US. Fully loaded with every conceivable option, the BMW X3 will cost over $74k in M40i guise.
At $1,650 in the USA, the Convenience Package for the 30i models adds comfort access keyless entry, lumbar support, and a power panoramic moonroof. One step up is the Premium Package at $2,650, which packs in heated front seats, comfort access keyless entry, a heated steering wheel, the moonroof, and lumbar support. 30i models come with the more conservative xLine exterior as standard, but the M Sport Package adds many of the goodies from the M40i for $4,100 such as the aerodynamic kit. The Parking Assistance Package costs $700, and you get a surround-view monitor and automatic parking with front and rear sensors. The Dynamic Handling Package is available to the xDrive30i and adds red or blue M Sport brakes, dynamic damper control, and variable steering, for $1,400.
The M40i is uniquely available with its own Premium Package at $1,350, adding heated front seats, a head-up display, and more. An M Sport differential costs $1,300, and a Harman Kardon sound system is $875. A Parking Assistance Package and Driving Assistance Professional Package with adaptive cruise control can be equipped, too, at $700 and $1,700, respectively.
Standalone options include a heated steering wheel ($200), remote engine start ($300), and heating/ventilation for the front seats ($500 each).
If you can afford it, the X3 M40i is the one to get. It begins at $61k, but that also gets you the more powerful turbocharged six-cylinder. If you can't swing for the M40i, then the X3 xDrive30i should be your next choice over the sDrive RWD variant. Having AWD has endless benefits, especially in rough weather conditions like snow and heavy rain. The additional traction could save you. We also highly recommend opting for the very reasonably priced $1,400 Dynamic Handling Package, which, as previously noted, adds Comfort, Sport, and Eco Pro driving modes. The X3 M, which is covered in a separate review, may be too extreme power- and handling-wise for many. That's why the X3 M40i, complete with the bigger engine, stronger acceleration, and M Sport suspension, is our choice.