The BMW X3 was first launched in 2003, and what you see here is the fourth-generation 2026 BMW X3, known internally as the G45.
BMW prefers to call it a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) rather than an SUV, and after spending time with it, that description makes sense. This review focuses on the BMW X3 xDrive 30 M Sport Pro, a variant of which is estimated to cost around ₹76 lakh. BMW has not officially announced the price yet.
BMW X3 2026: Variants and Expected Pricing in India
BMW currently offers only two standard models of the new X3 in India:
- X3 xDrive 20 Petrol : ₹71.20 lakh (ex-showroom)
- X3 xDrive 20d Diesel : ₹73 lakh (ex-showroom)
The xDrive 30 M Sport Pro sits above these trims and is expected to cost around ₹76 lakh. BMW has not launched this variant officially yet, so pricing remains indicative.
Global Roots and Indian Assembly
BMW assembles the X3 across multiple global facilities, including:
- India
- USA
- South Africa
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Vietnam
- China
The new BMW X3 also won the 2025 South African Car of the Year, which adds credibility to its overall package.
BMW builds the X3 on its CLAR WE platform, the same architecture used by the BMW 5 Series, 7 Series (G70), and iX. That platform choice already signals premium engineering.
Design Philosophy: Monolithic Yet Athletic
BMW describes the 2026 X3’s design as monolithic, and that feels accurate. The car looks solid, wide, and confident rather than flashy.
Key Exterior Highlights
- Gloss black BMW kidney grille (Iconic Glow eliminated)
- L-shaped Adaptive LED headlights
- M Light Shadowline elements
- Cornering lights and lighting effects
- Integrated flush door handles
- Electrically adjustable, foldable, heated, anti-dazzle ORVMs
- Roof rails, shark fin antenna, and glass roof
The Brooklyn Grey colour seen here looks understated and premium. BMW also offers white, black, and blue shades. Red is not available in India.
Dimensions and Road Presence
BMW claims this is the longest, widest, and tallest X3 ever, and it shows.
- Length: ~4.7 metres
- Width: ~1.9 metres
- Height: ~1.6 metres
- Kerb Weight: ~1,900 kg
- Gross Weight: ~2,500 kg
- Towing Capacity: Up to 2,500 kg
The new X3 is 47 mm longer than the previous generation, which directly improves cabin space and stance.
Wheels, Tyres, and Braking Setup
The xDrive 30 M Sport Pro rides on 20-inch M light alloy wheels, while 19-inch wheels remain optional.
- Front tyres: 255/45 R20 (105)
- Rear tyres: 285/40 R20 (108)
- Tyre brand: Continental EcoContact 6Q (Extra Load, Run-Flat, Tubeless)
You also get M Sport disc brakes finished in high-gloss red at both ends, which improves stopping confidence and visual appeal.
Rear Design: Clean and Purposeful
At the rear, BMW keeps things sharp and modern:
- Double L-shaped darkened LED tail lamps
- Gloss black diffuser
- Rear sensors and rear camera
- New “X3” badging style
- High-mounted stop lamp
- Rear wiper and spoiler
The design looks premium without trying too hard — a very BMW approach.
xDrive AWD and Driving Dynamics
This X3 uses BMW’s xDrive permanent all-wheel-drive system with variable torque distribution. Power shifts between wheels automatically for better traction and handling.
You also get:
- 50:50 weight distribution
- Active suspension with electronic dampers
- Adjustable damping for comfort or sport
- Brake energy regeneration
- Electronically controlled automatic differential locks (ADB-X)
Six drive modes are available:
- Personal
- Efficient
- Comfort
- Sport
- Relax
- Expressive
Safety Ratings and Driver Assistance
Safety remains one of the strongest points of the 2026 BMW X3.
- 5-Star safety rating from Euro NCAP and China NCAP
- 8 airbags
- ABS with brake assist
- Dynamic Stability Control
- Dynamic Traction Control
- Cornering Brake Control
- Hill start and hill descent control
Advanced Driver Assistance Features
- Front collision warning with brake intervention
- Lane departure warning
- Steering and lane control assistant
- Attentiveness assistance
- Parking assistant
- Reversing assistant
- 360-degree surround view camera
BMW also includes BMW Secure Advance, covering tyres, alloys, engine, key loss, and roadside assistance.
Boot Space and Practicality
The BMW X3 balances luxury with usability.
- Boot space: 570 litres
- With rear seats folded: 1,700 litres
- 40:20:40 split rear seats
- Hooks, side pockets, lighting, and 12V socket
- Spare wheel and toolkit included
One-touch electric tailgate operation comes standard.
Cabin Design
Step inside, and the X3 immediately feels modern.
Upholstery and Materials
- Brown Veganza perforated quilted leather
- 100% vegan upholstery
- Aluminium interior trim
- Special dashboard stitching pattern
The quality feels consistent across the cabin.
Rear Seat Comfort and Features
Rear passengers get:
- Excellent legroom due to long wheelbase
- Ambient lighting with 15 colour options
- Two AC vents
- Two USB charging ports
- Centre armrest with cup holders
- Tablet holder
- Roller sun blinds
- Bottle holders and seat-back pockets
The large panoramic glass roof adds an airy feel.
Front Seats and Driving Position
Up front, BMW delivers comfort and control.
- Electrically adjustable seats
- Active seat ventilation
- Lumbar support
- Memory function for driver seat
- M-specific pedals
- Flat-bottom M leather steering wheel
The seating position feels natural and sporty without being tiring.
Infotainment and Digital Experience
The X3 runs on BMW Operating System 9.
Display Setup
- 14.9-inch curved touchscreen
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Head-up display
Connectivity and Features
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Bluetooth
- Navigation with real-time traffic
- Augmented view
- Voice control
- Interior camera
- Drive recorder
- Remote services and software updates
- My BMW App support
The interface feels intuitive and fast.
Audio System
Music lovers will appreciate the:
- Harman Kardon surround sound system
- 15 speakers
- 750W output
Sound clarity remains strong even at higher volumes.
Engine and Performance Details
Under the bonnet sits BMW’s well-known B48 petrol engine.
Engine Specifications
- 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo petrol
- 48-volt mild-hybrid system
- Power: 254 hp
- Torque: 400 Nm
- 0–100 km/h: 6.3 seconds
- Top speed: 210 km/h
- Fuel tank: 65 litres
- Mileage: Around 14 km/l (claimed)
BMW pairs the engine with a ZF 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission.
The B48 engine already serves multiple BMW models, including the 3 Series, 4 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, Z4, Toyota Supra, and Morgan Plus 4.
Ownership and Warranty
BMW allows warranty extension up to 10 years, which improves long-term peace of mind.
Features like Condition Based Service and Intelligent Maintenance System help keep running costs predictable.
Final Verdict: Should You Consider the BMW X3 xDrive 30 M Sport Pro?
The 2026 BMW X3 xDrive 30 M Sport Pro focuses on balance. It doesn’t chase gimmicks. Instead, it delivers solid engineering, real safety credentials, modern technology, and everyday utility.
It feels premium without feeling flimsy. It feels sporty without feeling uncomfortable.
If you want a luxury crossover that prioritizes build quality, safety, performance, and long-term ownership, the new X3 deserves serious consideration.
