Used BMW X3 2010-2018 review
The second iteration of the BMW X3 is good to drive, well-equipped and has a classy interior – it's a good used buy.
- BMW X3 4x4 (11 - 17)
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- BMW X3 4x4 (11 - 17)
- BMW X3 4x4 (11 - 17)
- BMW X3 4x4 (11 - 17)
- BMW X3 4x4 (11 - 17)
What's the used BMW X3 like?
The 2004-2011 first-generation BMW X3 was not well-loved thanks to its poor quality, bizarre styling and firm ride – but this second generation, launched towards the end of 2010, is as brilliant as the original was below par.
It did so well it lasted until 2018, when it was replaced by an all-new third-generation 2018-onwards BMW X3 that carried on a lot of the good ideas that started with this car.
Pros
- Spacious and classy interior
- Fun to drive
- Plenty of equipment
Cons
- BMW reliability can be a little mixed
- No seven-seat option
- Hard ride on M Sport versions
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Engines: The diesel-only engine line-up consisted of a 181bhp 20d that used a 2.0-litre four-cylinder and a 3.0-litre straight-six in 254bhp 30d and 309bhp 35d guises. A more economical version of the 2.0-litre diesel arrived in 2012 in the form of the 141bhp 18d, and it's the only X3 to be found with rear-wheel drive. A new and more powerful 2.0-litre diesel was available as part of the 2014 revisions, so both the 18d and 20d produce 148bhp and 187bhp respectively. The six cylinders diesels didn't alter much but do have improved fuel economy and emissions.
The six-cylinder units deliver smoother and much stronger performance but are also significantly more expensive to buy and run, which is why most buyers opted for the 20d when new instead. Whatever X3 you go for, we’d recommend the smooth automatic over the manual which has an awkward clutch and a rubbery action.
Ride and handling: When you buy a BMW there are also certain expectations around the driving experience, which is where the original X3 ultimately fell widest of the mark. No such dangers with this replacement version which is all at once respectably fast and good fun, but also quiet and comfortable. Or at least it is if you opt for an SE version rather than the M Sport with its overly firm suspension. If you do fancy the sportier looks of the latter, we’d advise seeking out a car that’s also fitted with the optional variable damper control adaptive suspension.
Trims and equipment: Pre-facelift BMW X3s were split into SE and M Sport trim levels. The former comes with 17in alloy wheels, leather seats, dual-zone climate control, a 6.5in infotainment screen and front and rear parking sensors. To this M-Sport adds sportier styling, sports seats, sports suspension, 18in alloys and xenon headlights.
Post-facelift X3 from 2014 onwards can be found in SE, M Sport and xLine forms. SE gained heated front seats, the upgraded Business navigation package and an electric tailgate. The new xLine model got upgraded leather trim and 18in alloys, while M Sport carried on much as before but got larger 19in wheels as standard.
Interior and practicality: This second-gen model is a much larger car than the first, with loads of room for four adults to travel in comfort, and a big boot too. Granted, the central fifth seat is still rather narrow and there’s a large raised section in the floor where you want to put your feet, but the same applies to the X3’s contemporary rivals such as the Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and Range Rover Evoque.
It’s in the front where you really get to enjoy the X3, though, not only for the raised driving position and sense of space, but for the classy design and solid build quality. All models are equipped with BMW’s iDrive infotainment system that's still one of the best systems on the market in terms of features and ease of use.
EuroNCAP gave the X3 the maximum five-star safety rating when it was tested back in 2011, although these tests have obviously become progressively harder as the years have gone by. All versions come with six airbags, two Isofix mounting points across the rear seat bench and an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard to help control the car tricky conditions or during an emergency manoeuvre.
If you're interested in buying a used BMW X3, or any of the other cars mentioned here, check out our used car buying site here.
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Ownership cost
What used BMW X3 will I get for my budget?
Being a BMW, it’s perhaps not surprising that the X3 holds onto its value better than most SUVs. For example, an early 20d with well over 100,000 miles on the clock will still command £6000 on the used market.
Increasing your budget to between £8000 and £10,000 will grant you access to a face-lifted 2014-onwards example with the improved 2.0-litre diesel engine, and a mileage below 100k.
For a six-cylinder X3, expect to pay at least £9000, even for a car with a six-figure mileage. A good 2014-2018 X3 will likely set you back somewhere between £10,000 and £20,000 depending on engine and trim.
Check the value of a used BMW X3 with What Car? Valuations
Tips & Advice
Our recommendations
Which used BMW X3 should I buy?
Engine
Diesel-lovers will be pleased with the engines available, but while the six-cylinder 30d and 35d are great, the more economical 20d is the better choice. Just make sure you get one built after the 2014 facelift and you'll potentially have fewer issues.
Specification
On balance, SE would be our choice because it provides all the equipment you'd need and a more supple ride than the firmer M Sport cars.
Our favourite BMW X3: xDrive20d SE
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Tips & Advice
Alternatives
What alternatives should I consider to a used BMW X3?
The BMW X3 was at the top of its class for a long time, but the Volvo XC60 gave it a run for its money in terms of ride comfort, space and interior quality, even if it’s ultimately not as satisfying to drive.
The old Land Rover Freelander is a more capable off-roader and also pretty spacious, while the first-generation Range Rover Evoque ups the cool factor and is decent to drive, albeit much smaller than the BMW. Reliability can be an issue, too.
The contemporary Audi Q5 is another close rival for the X3 but again lacks its dynamic polish.
Finally, if you need seven seats the more recent and brilliantly packaged Land Rover Discovery Sport is well worth considering, although it does have a very poor reliability record.
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If you're interested in buying a used X3, or any of the other cars mentioned here, check out our used car buying site here.
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How reliable is the BMW X3 ?
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About the writer
