2022 BMW X3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Apart from the PHEV, the 2022 BMW X3 is available in four variants: xDrive30i, M40i, and M. All come with standard all-wheel-drive (AWD; the rear-wheel drive (RWD) sDrive30i drivetrain is not offered in Canada).

For 2022, the X3 sees a revised exterior design that presents a more aggressive stance but ever so slightly. Yes, the distinctive kidney grille is larger but it’s not the gaping maw (not yet, anyway) that has become the signature on other BMWs. You likely have to wait until the next redesign for that one. But if you like toothy grins, a black sensor bar is now positioned between the grilles for an adorable gap-toothed smile.

The headlights, which are now adaptive full LEDs, are 1 centimetre slimmer and accommodate new vertical air intakes along with a redesigned front bumper. In the rear, the taillights are all new featuring a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs which “hold” the integrated turn signal bars. Crab hands seem to be the new trend for taillights as they appear on even non-luxury cars like the Honda Civic. Welcome to the future: a nighttime sea of LED crustaceans.

Finishing the updated rear are larger redesigned exhaust tips and a new bumper that further complements the horizontal-styled exterior lighting. Other exterior changes include an M Sport Package for xDrive30i models, a specialized aero wheel, and new paints. The 2022 BMW X3 is available in nine finishes. Glacier Silver and Sunstone are gone but make way for two new metallic colours: Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue.

Nineteen-inch gray aluminum-alloy wheels are standard and matched with all-season run-flat tires. New for the BMW X3 xDrive30i models is an optional aerodynamically optimized 19-inch wheel. Black in colour, this new wheel features a unique plastic insert that improves airflow for better fuel efficiency and offers a 15-percent weight reduction compared to the standard aluminum wheel.

Those seeking performance of the M variety for their X3 xDrive30i can add the M Sport Package. This adds larger front air intakes, a sportier rear bumper, a substantial rear diffuser, and two more side air-curtain panels—in dark and high-gloss black finishes. If that’s not enough menace for your compact crossover, Shadowline new-for-2022 headlight inserts add the black-out treatment. Standard with the M Sport Package are M Sport brakes featuring either blue or red calipers.

Moving up to the X3 M40i adds more M, of course, and it’s identified as such with a BMW M grille that features high-gloss black double-bar grille inserts with an affixed M logo. The M exterior mirrors, also in high-gloss black, differentiate themselves from the standard versions thanks to an aerodynamic opening. M-designed 20-inch light-alloy wheels are standard with available 20- and 21-inch designs.

And those are just the exterior updates.

The cabin of the 2022 X3 presents a clean and efficient design. Although not a runway fashionista like the rival Genesis GV70 or Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3 is still handsome in a tailored suit kind of way. The well-appointed interior can feature a variety of inserts including available wood trim, an anthracite headliner, eight-way power-adjustable front seats, adjustable side bolsters, reclinable rear seatbacks, tri-zone automatic climate control, and new perforated SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery. All models can be optioned with premium Vernasca leather. A panoramic moonroof is standard on the X3 M40i but is also available for xDrive30i models.

X3 interior colour choices differ by material and model. The standard SensaTec seating can be optioned in black, Canberra beige, cognac, or Tacora red. Upgrading to genuine leather gives you black, cognac, oyster, and mocha as options.

There’s also ambient lighting to essentially hit you from every direction—from the door panels to the instrument panel to the dashboard trim. Brightness, including a night mode, can be adjusted to minimize the nightclub feel. If you can’t get comfortable while in an X3, perhaps the ambiance can put you to sleep so you don’t have to think about it. Unless you’re driving. In that case, go full send with the rave lights.

All 2022 X3 models feature an eight-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddles shifters as standard. For the X3 xDrive30i, power comes in the form of a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Output is 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Zero-to-100 km/h is timed at 6.3 seconds, BMW says.

Canadian fuel efficiency figures for the 2022 BMW X3 M40i have not yet been published.

Performance-wise, the base X3 puts up a good fight. We took an xDrive30i model on a short drive on urban and mountain roads. The vehicle proved quick enough to maneuver around freeway traffic, quiet enough to drown out city sounds, and compliant enough to absorb road bumps and bruises. Although we noticed some wind noise, we couldn’t tell if it was the X3 itself or a windy area. Where we were, there weren’t any trees to give us visual cues of gust or dust.

While not underpowered, the standard X3 isn’t the most exciting version. Even the engine note seemed distant. Bear in mind, this is a five-seater family crossover. Let competitors like Porsche focus strongly on performance because BMW is offering more of a complete package.

Besides, base models are just that. The basics. The BMW X3 M40i not only receives a punchier 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine but also a new mild-hybrid system. The M40i produces power specs of 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, and on curvy canyon roads the additional power is noticeable. We wouldn’t necessarily consider the X3 M40i a canyon-carving crossover (we reserve that title for the X3 M), but it's at the very least a definite highway hustler. Its quoted 4.5-second zero-to-100 km/h time is not an exaggeration.

Although both feature AWD, on-ramps and winding roads are more exhilarating in the M40i compared to the xDrive30i. The difference in acceleration and braking is evident. Oh, and you can hear the engine a little better, too. Even more so when utilizing the paddle shifters while in Sport or Sport Plus mode. But switch the driving mode to Comfort and the M40i produces a steering and suspension feel that is too soft for off-camber roads.

On the 2022 X3 M40i, additional M flavours are sprinkled in thanks to a flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, an adaptive suspension, and an AWD system tuned toward a rear-oriented torque split. Also, Performance Control has been updated to invoke more M-level dynamism. Where the xDrive30i provides a pleasant enough drive, the M40i offers up that extra kick to make driving less of a commute.

As for the mild-hybrid system, we hardly noticed it. It didn’t change the powertrain rating from the previous X3 M40i, neither negative nor positive. Mild, indeed. According to BMW, the system features a 48-volt start/generator plus a battery to make start/stop operation smoother and will shut the engine off when the vehicle coasts to a stop. Additionally, the mild-hybrid system can offer up another 11 hp off the line and during “intermediate sprints.” We can only assume the latter refers to passing.

Still, the new mild-hybrid system, which is only available on six-cylinder models (i.e., only the M40i), doesn’t actually improve fuel efficiency, a facet that X3 owners generally list as a consistent disappointment.

Performance squabbles aside, the BMW X3 does deliver on comfort and practicality. With seating for five and storage space for their bags, the X3 is rather roomy for a compact crossover. And, yes, that’s five adults—as long as the “adult” sitting in the rear middle seat is child-size like our 5’2” test driver. Nevertheless, ensconced in what amounts to a booster seat and with the front seats pushed mostly back, there was still a reasonable amount of legroom for us and two male seat mates of average height and build. If we complained about anything it might’ve been that the front seat occupants (cough driver) occasionally forgot there were rear passengers.

Those rear seats feature a standard 40/20/40-split. When up, there was enough cargo room for all of our backpacks plus film and photography equipment—and then some. Had we each brought an additional carry-on suitcase, the X3 looked cavernous enough to accommodate those, too. A power tailgate is also standard with an optional hands-free opening available for added convenience.

The SensaTec faux-leather seats are comfortable but the upgraded Vernasca does add more in terms of softness and pliability. As much as the X3 offers a multitude of adjustability for every occupant, our one gripe was with the thigh-support cushion. Well, its control handle to be exact.

On both the xDrive30i and M40i, the bottom seat cushion can be extended, something taller drivers will appreciate. The X3's sport seats were supportive enough that we had no use for it. However, while driving the xDrive30i, the extension handle protruded like a swollen lip that a driver's leg can rub up against when going for the brake pedal. Granted, it's likely not an issue for most people but to non-slouching petites, test drive recommended.

Overall, vehicle ergonomics have improved with easier accessibility to frequent touchpoints. The X3’s redesigned centre console now closely resembles that of newer BMW models, particularly the 4 Series. The standard infotainment system is now larger, measuring 10.25 inches, with an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen available.

Push-button and rocker-style controls for climate and heated seat functions are now positioned directly below the centre air vents followed by the audio controls. The lower area that encompasses the gear selector, BMW iDrive controller knob, and driving function buttons has been redone as well to mimic the 3 Series layout. The matte finish of the buttons maintains a smudge-free appearance versus the previous gloss black while the new outer material of the rotary dial offers a non-slip grip.

Depending on who you ask, BMW’s in-car technology is either innovative or infuriating. But we like dancing with the devil so we say it’s both. Everyone seemingly hated the iDrive rotary controller when it debuted 20 years ago, but now you find similar tech in everything from Acura to Volvo. What’s that saying about following the leader?

BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics is standard on the 2022 X3 and features a 5.1-inch colour display instrument panel and 10.25-inch infotainment screen. Included are navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, Bluetooth, satellite radio, two USB ports, and a slew of connected digital features such as the in-car personal assistant, music apps, over-the-air updates, real-time traffic, roadside assistance, and emergency services, among others.

Completely customizable, the X3 wants to be your ultimate multimedia machine. An optional Live Cockpit Professional enlarges both screens to 12.3 inches as well as provides a fully digital experience throughout. The maps are also updated to cloud-based navigation for improved accuracy and functionality. Redundancies are in place that you can manage many in-car functions via the steering wheel-mounted controls, voice activation, or iDrive controller.

A 12-speaker 205-watt HiFi sound system is standard on the X3. M40i models can be optioned with a Harman Kardon surround sound system that produces 600 watts and features 16 speakers. Other tech options include a package for xDrive30i models that adds comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and lumbar support. These features are standard on the X3 M40i trim. Heated steering wheel and heated front seats are standard, while ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a head-up display, and gesture control are optional.

The 2022 BMW X3 has been awarded a five-star crash safety rating—the highest score—from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Crash test results are not yet available from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) but when last tested, the 2018 X3 was named a Top Safety Pick+. According to the IIHS website, these results apply to model years 2018 through 2021. And the 2022 X3 adds even more to its list of safety features and driver-assistance systems.

Along with the previously mentioned adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams, also standard is a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear collision avoidance, park distance control with auto braking, forward-collision warning with pedestrian/cyclist detection, and active pre-collision protection systems like seatbelt tensioners, automatic window closures, post-crash braking, and driver attention alerts.

The available parking assistance feature for all X3 models adds parking assistance plus, active park distance control, and 360-degree surround camera view. Optional for 2022 are traffic jam assistance and back-up assistant, front cross-traffic alert, a 3D assisted view display within the instrument cluster of the vehicle and its surroundings as well as active lane-keep assist with lane centring and side collision avoidance.

Considering the robust revisions done to the 2022 X3, luxury crossover buyers will be pleased to learn its price didn’t attempt a Kilimanjaro ascent. The starting MSRP for the xDrive30i is $52,990.00 (a $2,480 destination charge is extra). The X3 M40i is priced at $68,000.00. Both of our X3 test vehicles were well equipped but not as over the top as they could’ve been.

On the xDrive30i, the M Sport Package is $3,500, Premium Package Essential is $4,150, and Premium Package Enhanced is $7,400. Numerous add-ons are available, including a $1,500 charge for Vernasca leather, $3,000 for Merino leather, and up to $1,450 for some paint colours.

On the X3 M40i, the Premium Package Essential is $4,200, Premium Packaged Enhanced is $7,900, and an Advanced Driver Assistance Package is $2,000. With more standard features and an engaging driving experience, it’s the winner amongst the two.

But how does the X3 fare against a growing field of cutthroat competitors? Just fine, thank you.

Against the V6-equipped AMG GLC 43, the X3 M40i offers the same performance story and a very similar price. The comparable Audi SQ5 comes in very close on price with the M40i but offers less power (349 hp). The Porsche Macan is a winner in stealing your wallet with the base 2.0-litre turbo-four model starting at $58,500. Undercutting everyone on price is the AWD-only Genesis GV70 which starts at $49,650 under all-in pricing. In its first-ever model year, however, the segment newcomer has yet to truly prove itself.

The new BMW X3 doesn’t have to do much to win over shoppers. Its badge alone represents prestige and performance. Does that make the X3 perfect by default? Don’t be silly. But it is balanced. From steering feel to spaciousness to styling, the 2022 X3 will not disappoint. Okay, maybe on fuel efficiency. But, guess what? You can dismiss that screen with gesture control.

Note: Images show a US model.