Intro: BMW addresses the biggest complaint
BMW built a strong reputation with the latest X3 generation. It handles well, looks sharp and offers modern technology. Yet many buyers and enthusiasts shared one major complaint, the petrol variant felt underpowered for a luxury SUV priced over ₹70 lakh. The 190hp output didn’t feel special enough in this segment.
BMW listened. And the new 2026 BMW X3 30 xDrive has arrived with a big boost in performance and some important updates across the board. On paper, the figures look promising. On the road, the changes look even more significant.
We drove the new X3 30 xDrive to see how those upgrades translate into real-world driving. Does it finally deliver the performance expected from a premium BMW SUV? Let’s break it down clearly.
Read Also : BMW X3 2026 xDrive 30 M Sport Pro
Engine and performance of BMW X3 30 xDrive
The biggest update is under the bonnet. The X3 30 xDrive continues to use BMW’s familiar 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, commonly known as the B48 among enthusiasts. However, this higher-output version produces 258 horsepower and 400Nm of torque.
That represents a significant jump over the previous petrol variant. BMW has also equipped the engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system, which adds torque at low speeds and supports overtaking in city traffic. Drivers can also avail of a short performance boost via Boost mode.
Power flows through an 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox and reaches all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The setup feels consistent and suits both relaxed cruising and spirited driving.
The performance difference is immediately apparent. The X3 30 xDrive accelerates strongly and maintains consistent pull throughout the rev range. BMW claims stronger mid-range performance and better top-end power, and real-world driving confirms these improvements.
In our testing, the SUV sprinted from 0-100km/h in 6.11 seconds, a significant improvement over the 20 variant. In-gear acceleration from 20-80km/h and 40-100km/h also felt noticeably quicker.
Switch to Sport mode and the engine wakes up immediately. Throttle response sharpens, and the car feels eager. Pull the left pedal and you get a 10-second boost, which adds an extra burst of performance when needed.
The engine remains smooth and refined during everyday driving. However, push it hard at higher revs and you may notice some roughness. It only appears near the top end and rarely affects regular driving.
Transmission and driving experience
BMW has paired the engine with an excellent 8-speed automatic transmission. Gear shifts during normal driving are smooth and almost seamless. When you demand acceleration, the gearbox responds quickly and drops gears without hesitation.
Drivers who prefer control can use the paddle shifters. They react sharply and maintain engagement during spirited drives. The gearbox keeps the engine in its ideal power band for the most part.
The mild-hybrid system deserves special mention, as it delivers extra torque at low speeds and fills in small gaps in power delivery. Overtaking traffic feels easier and more confident.
Handling and ride quality
The BMW X3 already handled well, but the 30 xDrive improves dynamics even further. The wide tires, 255-section at the front and 285-section at the rear, provide excellent grip. They sit on large 20-inch wheels, which help the SUV corner confidently.
Turn into corners and the front end responds with a strong bite. Accelerate out and the rear tires provide impressive traction. The SUV feels stable and predictable, which increases driver confidence.
The lower-profile tires present a drawback. You may notice sharp jolts on rough roads and potholes. Sport mode stiffens the suspension and makes the ride noticeably stiffer.
Switch to Comfort or Personal mode and the ride improves significantly. The suspension absorbs bumps better and feels more suitable for daily use. At higher speeds, stability remains excellent – one of the X3 platform’s key strengths.
BMW’s dynamic dampers allow drivers to easily adjust the suspension behavior. Comfort mode suits most Indian road conditions, while Sport mode adds rigidity and sharper responses for enthusiastic driving.
The steering feels direct and precise. Some drivers may prefer a slightly heavier feel, but the current setup balances comfort and control well.
BMW X3 30 xDrive of Exterior design
BMW keeps the exterior changes subtle. At first glance, it looks similar to the 20 variant. However, the M Sport Professional pack adds distinctive elements.
The SUV gets a dark color of glossy black around the illuminated kidney grille and dark accents inside the adaptive LED headlights. Red brake calipers stand out behind the large wheels.
The X3 retains its clean and monolithic design language. Flat surfaces and sharp lines give it a modern look without feeling overly aggressive. The Brooklyn Gray paint enhances the sophisticated aesthetics.
The 30 badge sits on the electrically operated tailgate, which opens and reveals a spacious 570-liter boot.
Interior updates: Better materials, similar layout
Inside the cabin, BMW has introduced some welcome changes. The dashboard and door panels now feature leather, which improves the perceived quality and addresses complaints about the previous synthetic surfaces.
The cabin also includes M Sport Pro touches, such as illuminated door sill plates and M stitching on the seat belts.
Not everything is improved, though. Some of the interior plastics still feel a bit scratchy, which reduces the premium impression in certain areas.
The layout remains familiar. The SUV features BMW’s curved display setup, which includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen. The display looks sharp and responds quickly to inputs.
Many functions, including HVAC controls, now sit within the touchscreen. Its design feels modern but feels less convenient while driving. The user interface may seem complicated at first, but the combination of touchscreen inputs with the iDrive controller makes it easier to navigate over time.
Ambient lighting and a minimalist dashboard design give the cabin a modern feel, especially during night drives.
Comfort and practicality: Driver-focused cabin
The front seats provide excellent comfort and support. Adjustable thigh support and adjustable side bolsters help maintain comfort during long drives and spirited cornering.
Rear seat comfort remains decent. A driver of about 5’8″ tall will find ample knee and head room. The seat cushion feels comfortable, but the straight back and lack of slope reduce overall comfort.
Rear passengers also have to deal with some hard plastic surfaces, which detracts from the premium feel a bit. The tall central tunnel makes seating three passengers more challenging.
Overall, the cabin works best for drivers who enjoy being behind the wheel.
Price and Positioning: More Performance than Entry Variant
BMW is yet to announce the official pricing of the X3 30 xDrive. However, expectations suggest that it will be higher than the current range. The X3 20 petrol is priced at ₹71.20 lakh, while the 20d diesel is priced at ₹73.10 lakh.
BMW will continue to sell the 20 variant as an entry-level option. However, buyers who want strong performance may find the 30 xDrive a more attractive choice if the pricing remains competitive.
Verdict: A more complete luxury SUV
The 2026 BMW X3 30 xDrive finally delivers the performance expected from a premium petrol SUV. A stronger engine, improved acceleration and enhanced driving dynamics transform the overall experience.
The SUV still offers a well-equipped cabin, sharp design and strong high-speed stability. While some of the interior plastics and rear seat comfort need improvement, the driving experience remains the highlight.
If BMW gets the pricing right, the 30 xDrive could become a preferred choice over the less powerful variant. It feels faster, more engaging, and better aligned with BMW’s driver-focused philosophy.
For buyers who value performance and handling in a luxury SUV, this updated X3 deserves serious attention, and could even be a rematch against the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300.
Sources : BMW X3
