The edgy four-door X3 has received a midcycle freshening, with more power and upgraded interior materials to address one of its few shortcomings. Cementing its position as king of the compact mountain, the new, single-model 3.0si replaces the 3.0i with increased, velvety-smooth torque and 260 horsepower — 35 more horses in the stable than before. Connecting this power to the ground are six forward gears, in your choice of BMW’s Steptronic automatic or fully manual six-speed shift.
On the style front, a freshened and sleeker exterior combines with better plastics and wood trim inside for an especially enticing new package. Dynamically, the BMW X3 features bundled stability and traction control, combined with braking enhancements to improve emergency responsiveness. And in keeping with its premium persona, the options sheet includes adaptive headlamps and brake lights, 19-inch alloy wheels and heated rear seats.
If you’re shopping for a premium, performance-oriented compact SUV — and don’t mind the stiff ride and even stiffer price of entry — we recommend that you put the BMW X3 at the top of your short list of choices.
