The 2022 BMW X3 is perfect for luxury buyers who don’t need 3-row seating but still want a vehicle that can comfortably accommodate rear-seat passengers, plus feel somewhat substantial when big trucks go blasting past.
The X3 comes in several variants, from the entry-level 4-cylinder X3 sDrive30i to the high-performance X3 M. All models have a specific audience and are appropriately priced and equipped.
Unlike other makes that divide their models into trim levels, BMW prefers to start with one well-equipped model and let buyers pick and choose the options and packages they like. We prefer this method as it allows more individual personalization.
That said, keep in mind the advanced technology once only found in luxury SUVs is now making its way to less expensive models from companies like Kia, Volkswagen, and Ford. So if the BMW name and performance image are not must-haves, you can probably find many of the same features for less money in these other makes.
2022 BMW X3 sDrive30i (Starting at $43,700)
The 2022 BMW X3 sDrive30i is a rear-drive compact SUV with a surprisingly roomy interior.
The 30i in the X3’s name denotes its engine, in this case, a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder developing 248 horsepower. An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard and can be manually shifted via a set of steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
BMW is known for its ability to engineer fun yet flexible vehicles, which is why the X3 includes BMW’s Driving Dynamics Control with various modes, including Eco Pro, Comfort, and Sport.
The X3 includes Start Off Assistance that keeps the vehicle from rolling backward once the brake is released. Hill Descent Control manages descent speed, while Brake Drying is an ingenious feature that works to keep the brake rotors dry when the weather outside isn’t.
A quick peek at the X3’s exterior reveals 19-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels surrounded by all-season run-flat tires. The power-folding side mirrors are heated to keep frost from blocking your view, the driver’s side mirror dims when detecting headlights behind the X3, and the passenger side mirror tilts down when the gear selector is placed in reverse. The standard power rear tailgate makes loading and unloading so much easier.
Adaptive LED headlights with programmable LED daylight running lights come standard and include cornering lights for added visibility around corners when signaling a turn. When the time comes to gain entry to the X3, the key fob does more than unlock the doors. It has a memory feature that remembers the last used setting for climate, audio, power seat, and mirror position.
On the luxury front, the X3’s cabin is replete with upscale finishes. The seats are covered in a convincing perforated synthetic leather called SensaTec, but buyers can upgrade to the real thing.
Other notable standard equipment includes tri-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents, power sport front seats with driver’ seat memory, cruise control, a leather-wrapped tilt and telescopic steering wheel, rain-sensing windshield wipers with automatic headlight activation, and one-touch up/down power front windows.
The X3’s rear seat is divided in a 40/20/40 split, allowing use for passengers and extended cargo at the same time.
New this year is a redesigned dashboard hosting an upgraded 10.25-inch center touchscreen for infotainment and standard navigation. Inputs to the system are performed in three ways: using a finger, using voice commands, or through the BMW iDrive controller.
The X3’s instrument cluster has traditional analog gauges surrounding a small 5.1-inch LCD screen displaying up to 10 pages of various vehicle and infotainment information.
Opt for the available Live Cockpit Pro, and you’ll get a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster display that can also double as a navigation screen. With this upgrade comes BMW Maps, a cloud-based system with significantly more capabilities than the standard navigation. This option also elevates the infotainment screen to 12.3 inches.
The X3’s infotainment system can now accommodate both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also included are SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth streaming, and Wi-Fi mobile hotspot. In addition, the system is designed to accept optional connectivity upgrades like BMW TeleServices, real-time traffic updates, and stolen vehicle location.
The BMW Personal Assistant is enhanced this year, answering the command “Hey, BMW,” at which point you can ask it to change the radio station, adjust the cabin temperature, open or close the windows, or access certain apps.
The X3’s audio system uses a 205-watt amplifier powering 12 speakers, which is not bad for a standard system.
Standard driver assists include forward-collision warning, low-speed automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. A rearview camera and front and rear parking sensors round out the safety set.
Optional equipment for the X3 is extensive, with the most desirable options grouped into equipment packages.
The Convenience Package brings proximity keyless entry and start, a panoramic sunroof, and power lumbar support.
The Premium Package includes the Convenience Package contents plus a choice of heated front seats or heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, and head-up display.
The M Sport Package adds a choice of 19-, 20-, and 21-inch wheels, Shadowline exterior trim, and an M steering wheel.
The Park Assistance Package brings Park Assist Plus, Active Park Distance Control, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. These systems provide self-parallel and perpendicular parking, help the driver avoid backing into another vehicle, and give a top view image of the X3 and its surroundings.
The Driving Assistance Professional Package adds Extended Traffic Jam assist and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go ability, allowing the X3 to navigate in stop-and-go traffic without driver intervention autonomously.
The Dynamic Handling Package adds active dampers, variable sport steering, and M Sport brakes with blue or red calipers.
Some notable standalone options include Live Cockpit Pro, Harman Kardon audio upgrade (late availability), wireless charge pad, remote start, Vernasca leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, ambient interior lighting, and drive recorder.
With the $995 destination fee, the 2022 BWM X3 sDrive30i costs $44,695. With zero down on a 60-month loan at 3%, the monthly payment comes to $803. Find a 2022 BMW X3 sDrive30i for sale
2022 BMW X3 sDrive30i includes:
- Navigation – Standard navigation can direct you anywhere in the continental US and features numerous programs to help locate points of interest, coffee shops, hotels, and more.
- Power sport front seats – Multi-adjustable sport front seats can accommodate drivers of any size and have thick side bolsters to hold occupants in place during spirited drives.
- Active Driving Assistant – This complete suite of active driver assists can warn of an impending collision at the X3’s front, side, and rear and, in certain situations, intervene to avoid an accident.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – Allow wireless integration of your smartphone apps into the BMW infotainment setup.
2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i ($45,700)
The xDrive30i mirrors the standard equipment found on the sDrive30i. The only significant difference is the xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
xDrive is an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that varies torque between the front and rear axles, with a bias toward the rear resulting in improved handling. When the system detects wheel slippage, be it on dry pavement or deep snow, power is routed to the axle and wheel with the best traction.
Considering the improved cornering ability and wintertime driving security, we think spending an extra $2,000 for the xDrive upgrade is money well spent.
With destination, a 2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i costs $46,695. On a 60-month loan with no money down and 3% financing, the xDrive30i’s monthly payment comes to $839, just $36 more each month than the sDrive30i. Find a 2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i for sale
2022 BMW X3 M40i ($57,800)
The X3 M40i comes standard with xDrive all-wheel drive and a 382-hp turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine. In addition, the powertrain includes a 48-volt mild-hybrid starter/generator that can boost power for short sprints with an additional 11 hp.
Building on the X3 xDrive30i’s standard equipment, the X3 M40i adds bi-color Midnight Gray 19-inch alloy wheels, M Sport brakes with blue calipers, M Sport exhaust, and the contents of the M Sport package. Performance control individually controls the amount of power to each wheel, while the adaptive M suspension and variable-ratio sport steering greatly improve ride and handling.
Also standard is a panoramic glass sunroof, Live Cockpit Pro, Shadowline exterior trim, Comfort Access proximity key, and an increased top-speed limiter.
Options unique to the X3 M40i include an M Sport rear differential, carbon-fiber interior trim, SensaTec dash pad, and M Sport brakes with red calipers.
With the $995 destination fee, the 2022 BMW X3 M40i costs $58,795. With zero down on a 60-month loan at 3%, the monthly payment comes to $1,056. Find a 2022 BMW X3 M40i for sale
2022 BMW X3 M40i includes:
- M Sport brakes – Featuring larger rotors and 4-piston front brake calipers plus more aggressive brake pads for improved stopping power.
- Adaptive M suspension – Adjusts the shock dampers to varying road conditions and performance driving, which can help with ride comfort and aggressive cornering.
- Live Cockpit Pro – This advanced 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster can also serve as a navigation display and integrate infotainment, media, and driver-assist information into one location.
2022 BMW X3 M ($69,000)
The X3 M is the high-performance version of the already sporty X3, and as such, features several performance enhancements, beginning under the hood.
Powering the X3 M is a 473-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. A Competition Package bumps output to 503 hp, yielding a 0-to-60-mph time of 3.9 seconds. A top speed of 155 mph increases to 177 mph when the M Driver’s Package is selected.
The X3 M features most of the standard and optional performance equipment found on the X3 M40i, with enhancements made to the M Servotronic sport steering, active damping suspension, and the xDrive system with M Dynamic mode. There’s also a sport exhaust and revised traction and stability control systems.
The X3 M includes upgraded brakes with 4-piston front calipers and a single-piston floating rear caliper. Both surround drilled and ventilated performance rotors.
The standard X3 M wheel size is 20 inches, which increases to 21 inches with the Competition Package.
Inside the cabin are power-operated leather M sports seats and the Live Cockpit Pro 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Driving Assistance Pro is also standard.
With the $995 destination fee, the 2022 BMW X3 M costs $69,995. Assuming no money down on a 60-month loan at 3%, the monthly payment comes to $1,258. Find a 2022 BMW X3 M for sale
2022 BMW X3 M includes:
- M Driver’s Package – Increases the speed limiter to 177 mph. The package also includes a 1-day trip to one of BMW’s Performance Driving Centers. Owners get to spend time on an enclosed track with professional drivers learning the limits of the X3 M.
- Competition Package – Adds 30 hp to the X3 M’s engine and elevates torque from 457 to 479 lb-ft.
- M Dynamic Mode – Part of the traction and stability program, M Dynamic Mode allows for more wheel slip, perfect when drifting on an enclosed track.
