Used BMW X3 cars

First launched in 2003, the BMW X3 is one of BMW’s most popular models. Boasting bold and adventurous styling, this mid-sized, premium SUV combines exceptional engine performance with practicality and comfort. Well suited to families and cruising over long distances, the X3’s wide appeal has made it a benchmark for innovation in the competitive C segment.

BMW X3 updates and facelifts

The Mk2 X3 was launched in 2010. It received a mid-life facelift in 2014, which updated its styling, cabin technology and engine efficiency. The Mk3 followed in 2017, adding new hybrid engines and additional legroom to the model as well as stylistic and performance enhancements, including a new front grille design and remodelled bumpers. The Mk3 was given a facelift in 2021, introducing an updated infotainment system, mild hybrid technology and refreshed styling.

Across its three generations, the X3 has developed a reputation as a great all-round SUV thanks to its spacious design and rewarding drive. And while it competes with the Audi Q5 and Range Rover Velar to offer the best premium SUV experience, the X3’s suitability for a wide range of different driving needs helps it stand out as a superb option. And thanks to the X3’s range of trims, there’s even more flexibility when it comes to choosing the right level of performance for your needs.

Practicality and style of the car

If you’re looking for a spacious SUV, the X3 is a good option. With a length of 4,708mm, height of 1,676mm and width of 1,891mm, the Mk3 is 51mm longer than the Mk2’s 4,657mm. It is also 143mm longer and 38mm wider than the Mk1. The Mk3 also offers better space than its rivals. It is 52mm longer than the Mercedes-Benz GLC’s length of 4,656mm, and 55mm longer than the Audi Q5’s 4,663mm.

The X3 has good boot and storage space. Most used X3s have around 550 litres of boot space with the rear seats up, but this can be expanded to an impressive 1,600 litres by folding the seats flat – more than the Audi Q5’s 1,500 litres.

A used BMW X3 is also capable of lugging heavy loads. It has a maximum braked towing capacity of 2,000kg, meaning it can pull most medium-sized caravans, regardless of drivetrain or transmission.

The Mk3’s increased wheelbase of 51mm over the Mk2’s 2,810mm means it offers even more leg space throughout the cabin. Across the front and rear seats, there is ample head and legroom for even tall passengers. Keeping the cabin tidy is also easy thanks to deep door bins, cup holders and a front glovebox which has plenty of room for small, handheld accessories. The X3 is also great for growing families, with three sets of ISOFIX points along the rear bench.

Running costs

The X3’s size and engine power mean that it falls into insurance groups of between 28 and 50, which is similar to other cars in this class like the Audi Q5 and Range Rover Velar. In terms of road tax, a used BMW X3 typically costs around £560 to £570 to tax annually.

How a used BMW X3 drives

With each new generation of X3, new engines have been incorporated into the model with petrol, diesel or hybrid engines now available. BMW X3s for sale can come with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine. It can go from 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds and offers 38.7–39.8mpg and produces 182bhp.

There is the entry-level 20d diesel engine. This engine is also a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 187bhp and accelerates from 0-62mph in around eight seconds. It also offers good fuel consumption, achieving 51.4–53.3mpg.

A plug-in hybrid engine has been added to the range to push the X3’s performance. This hybrid combines a 94bhp electric motor with a 10kWh battery and a 1.5-litre, 123bhp petrol engine to create a combined 217bhp engine. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds and returns a fuel consumption of 141.2–148.7mpg – better than the Range Rover Velar hybrid’s 130mpg. The fully electric range of 32 miles is also a step up compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLC’s 27 miles.

Many used BMW X3s will come with a Steptronic eight-speed automatic transmission system for smooth power delivery. It can also feature sport and sport+ modes to further tweak the driving experience. Alternatively, some X3s may come with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Engines and official MPG

Please refer to the table below for a comprehensive list of engines and their official MPG figures.

2010 - 2018

2018 - onwards

Features you can expect in a BMW X3

The X3 has an unmistakable presence on the road. With a flared front grille, elongated bonnet and crafted bumpers, the X3 turns heads with desirable styling running across its body. Slide into the cockpit and you’ll have a commanding view of the road thanks to the model’s raised stature. Opt for the top-level M40i trim and the X3 comes with 21-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

The X3’s prestige interior is one of the best in its class, with premium-quality leather applied to the upholstery, seats and dashboard. The minimal dashboard has a glossy feel, while silver chrome accents on the air conditioning grilles add an appealing colour contrast. More interior styling can be added to the cabin by opting for one of the X3’s top-level trims, such as the M Sport. This trim fits luxurious Vernasca leather to the upholstery for an even more sophisticated feel in the cabin.

Used X3s manufactured after 2017 will have a three-spoke multi-functional steering wheel with soft-touch buttons. These buttons help you interact with the X3’s infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. The X3’s infotainment system is located on the centre console.

Technology

This 12.3-inch screen can be controlled with the rotary iDrive dial next to the driver’s seat or by touch inputs. This intuitive and easy-to-use system comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth streaming, sat nav and DAB radio.

This is linked to the X3’s standard six-speaker sound system, but by opting for the M Sport trim, a premium 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system will be fitted instead, producing 600 Watts of exceptional surround sound quality. The X3’s digital instrument cluster is also a 12.3-inch screen. This display shows your key drive information, including the distance driven, mpg figures, fuel level and speed.

Safety

Technology also ensures that a used X3 is a safe model. It has been awarded a five-star safety rating by Euro NCAP, as well as an adult occupant safety score of 93% and a child occupant score of 84%. Depending on age and trim, the X3 comes with lane departure assist, cross traffic alerts and active cruise control for extra safety.

Trims available on the BMW X3

BMW X3 SE

The entry-level Mk3 trim comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, acoustic glazing, adaptive LED headlights, three-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, dynamic brake lights, electrically folding exterior mirrors, matt black exterior trim and automatic tailgate operation.

BMW X3 xLine

The xLine trim comes with 19-inch Ferric Grey alloy wheels, Cognac or Oyster interior, exterior Satin Aluminium trim, front LED fog lights, silver metallic side sills and front sports seats.

BMW X3 M Sport

This trim adds in a range of sport-focused enhancements, including M Sport blue brakes, high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, M designated side badges, signature M multi-functional steering wheel and Vernasca leather upholstery.

BMW X3 M40d

The M40d trim includes 20-inch wheels, sports suspension, LED lights with automatic high beams, dark chrome finish and heated front seats.

BMW X3 M40i

The M40i trim comes with remodelled front and rear bumpers, 21-inch alloy wheels, twin exhaust pipes, Anthracite headlining, driver attention assist, Sensatech leather dashboard, electro-chromatic rear-view mirror with anti-dazzle functionality and heated windscreen washer jets.

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