2026 BMW X3 Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview
The 2026 BMW X3 exemplifies everything the automaker has learned in its over twenty years of making compact SUVs with a sporting edge. The xDrive30 relies on a 255-hp 2.0-liter turbo-four for motivation, while the M50 employs a 393-hp 3.0-liter turbo inline-six for a genuine BMW experience. Both utilize a 48-volt hybrid system, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel drive. Its stylish interior offers room for five—provided the rear passengers are small or well-acquainted—and although the ride favors comfort over raw performance, the chassis has enough chutzpah to add some smiles to your commute. In a crowded segment of worthy contenders, the X3's playful and practical personality stands out from the pack.
What's New for 2026?
After a significant refresh for 2025, we expect the BMW X3 to roll into 2026 with no significant changes.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2026 BMW X3 is expected to start around $52,000 and go up to $66,000 depending on the trim and options.
xDrive30
$52,000 (est)
M50
$66,000 (est)
Considering the nearly $15k gap, we think the xDrive30 represents the best value. And with the difference you can add the Convenience package (remote start, sunroof, heated steering wheel) and the M Sport package (tuned suspension and steering, bespoke wheels, and M Sport graphic elements) and still save thousands compared to the M50. That said, the M50's 393-hp inline-six ensures a more genuine BMW driving experience, and for some drivers the upcharge is just the cost of doing BMW business.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the xDrive30 is boosted by a 48-volt hybrid system and makes 255 horsepower. The M50 is the real performer though, as its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six gets the same hybridization system and a 393-hp rating. Both employ an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. When we drove the 2025 X3, we found that it builds on the previous-generation model's already good road manners with a stiffer body structure and revised suspension. Speaking of which, an adaptive suspension is standard on the M50 and can be ordered as an option on the 30 xDrive. Three drive modes, Personal, Efficient, and Sport, are provided to tailor responses to the driver's needs. An optional trailer hitch allows the X3 to tow up to 4850 pounds.
0–60-MPH Times
The 393-hp M50 blazed to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds flat in C/D testing, continuing to clear the quarter-mile in 12.6 seconds. While we haven't tested the 2026 xDrive30 yet, BMW is claiming a 6.0-second 60-mph time for that model. Top speed for the 30 xDrive is 130 mph; the xDrive M50 tops out at 155 mph when equipped with the performance tires.
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BMW
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 X3 yet, but the 2025 xDrive30 model earned ratings of 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway while the M50 was rated at 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The 2025 M50 returned 29 mpg on our 75-mph real-world fuel economy loop. For more information about the M2's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Standard equipment includes new heated and ventilated power-adjustable sport seats with three available color choices for the faux-leather upholstery. There's also an optional faux leather and faux suede combination available, as well as genuine leather. A woven fabric instrument panel made from recycled polyester is also on offer, marking its first use on any BMW product. BMW claims that there is 10 percent more rear cargo space than the outgoing model, with the new X3 offering 32 cubic feet with the seats up.
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BMW
Infotainment and Connectivity
BMW's latest iDrive 9 infotainment system makes its debut in the X3, and the iDrive rotary knob remains in place—a nice surprise considering its conspicuous absence on the recently refreshed X1 and X2 models. The system also accepts inputs via the touchscreen, steering wheel controls, and voice commands. A head-up display is optional. BMW Digital Premium allows for video streaming and gaming options when the vehicle is stopped, the latter in single- or dual-player modes. Spotify and Amazon Music join the X3's list of audio streaming services.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
A full suite of driver-assistance features is available, but BMW offers the basics as standard equipment. For more information about the X3's crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Standard automated emergency braking with forward-collision warning
Standard lane-departure warning
Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
BMW's warranty offerings on the current X3 don't stand out among its rivals; its four-year or 50,000-mile basic warranty is common in this segment. Three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance is nice, but it's something that the Genesis GV70 and the Volvo XC60 also offer.
Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
Complimentary scheduled maintenance covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles
Specifications
Specifications
2025 BMW X3
Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE
Base: 30 xDrive, $50,675; M50 xDrive, $65,275
ENGINES
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter Miller-cycle inline-4, 255 hp, 295 lb-ft; turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve 3.0-liter Miller-cycle inline-6, 393 hp, 428 lb-ft
TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 112.8 in
Length: 187.2 in
Width: 75.6 in
Height: 65.4 in
Passenger Volume, F/R: 55/45 ft3
Cargo Volume, Behind F/R: 67/32 ft3
Curb Weight (C/D est): 4200–4550 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 4.2–5.9 sec
1/4-Mile: 12.9–14.8 sec
Top Speed: 130–155 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 27–29/25–27/30–33 mpg
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