BMW India introduced the updated BMW X3 luxury SUV on April 1, 2023. It comes with a contemporary design, upgraded features, and an enhanced interior. Manufactured at BMW's Chennai plant, the refreshed X3 is offered in three petrol variants in India: xDrive20d xLine, xDrive20d M Sport, and xDrive M40i, with prices starting at Rs. 68.50 lakh to 87.70 lakh (ex-showroom).

The revamped X3 competes with the new Audi Q5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC. The X3 includes a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting with six settings and a 3-zone automatic climate control system with updated air vents. It also features an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The following are the key details on its specifications and features:

• Larger Grille: The redesigned front fascia features a more prominent grille, enhancing the X3's bold appearance. While not as excellent as the X7's, it remains a significant component, incorporating an 'active air stream' for improved airflow and reduced drag.

• 19-inch Wheels: Optional 19-inch wheels offer a striking silhouette, filling the wheel wells beautifully and contributing to the X3's excellent stance. However, the low tyre profile may present challenges in certain driving conditions.

• M-Sport Trim: The M-sport trim includes blacked-out frames around windows, roof rails, and sporty side skirts, adding a touch of athleticism and sophistication to the X3's overall appearance.

• 3D Taillights: The redesigned taillights feature crisp, 3D-modeled elements that are particularly appealing in low-light conditions. This eye-catching detail significantly enhances the X3's rear-end aesthetics and visibility.

• 12.3-inch Touchscreen: The dashboard's free-floating 12.3-inch touchscreen dominates, offering sharp HD resolution and excellent responsiveness. It includes gesture controls for multimedia commands and an easy-to-use 360-degree parking camera.

• Spacious Interior: The X3 offers ample legroom and headroom for rear passengers, with comfortably angled seatbacks. Individual climate control, sunblinds, and a 16-speaker Harman-Kardon sound system further enhance the luxurious cabin experience.

• Fuel Efficiency: The X3 offers impressive fuel economy, with the petrol engine achieving 16.35 km/l and the diesel engine 16.55 km/l in city conditions. This efficiency makes it a practical choice for daily driving.

• Ground Clearance: With a minimum ground clearance of 204 mm, the X3 can easily navigate various terrains. The advanced air suspension system allows for adjustable ride height, enhancing both off-road capability and urban manoeuvrability.

• Boot Space: The X3 provides a generous 550 litres of luggage space with the rear seats up. This capacity can be further expanded by folding down the rear seats, offering versatility for various cargo needs.

• Colour Choices: Available in six sophisticated colours, including Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, and Carbon Black, the X3 allows owners to personalise their vehicle's appearance to suit their individual style preferences.

• Safety Features: The X3 is equipped with numerous safety technologies, including Anti-lock Brakes, Traction Control and Airbags. Advanced features like Attentiveness Assistance and Dynamic Stability Control further enhance occupant protection.

Specs & Features: BMW X3 vs Rivals

If you want to buy the BMW X3, you first need to understand which features are better than its rivals mentioned in the following:

BMW X3 vs Volvo XC60

• Striking Exterior Design: The Volvo XC60's dynamic Scandinavian design and bold features create a sleek, robust presence with its angular tailgate and full-LED headlights. In contrast, the BMW X3's facelift includes a larger grille and sharper LED headlights, enhancing its sporty look with optional 19-inch wheels.

• Spacious Interior: The XC60 boasts a luxurious cabin with Nappa leather seats, a crystal gear shifter, and an 1100W Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The BMW X3 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a Harman-Kardon system but lacks ventilated and massaging seats.

• Engine Features and Gearbox: The XC60 offers a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with 246.58 bhp and an 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth driving. The X3 has a choice of engines, including a 3.0-litre inline-six with an 8-speed automatic gearbox for powerful and efficient performance.

• Mileage: The XC60 delivers a mileage of 11.2 kmpl, which is suitable for its power and luxury features. The BMW X3 provides better fuel efficiency, with 16.35 kmpl for petrol and 16.55 kmpl for diesel, reflecting its efficient engine options.

• Ground Clearance and Boot Space: The XC60 has a ground clearance of 230 mm, which is ideal for off-road and varied road conditions. The BMW X3 offers 204 mm clearance with adjustable air suspension for enhanced off-road capability and a commanding road presence. The XC60 provides 483 litres of boot space, expandable by folding rear seats. The X3 offers a larger boot at 550 litres, with additional space when seats are folded, catering to more cargo needs.

• Dimensions: The XC60 measures 4708 mm in length and 1902 mm in width, offering a spacious interior. The X3 is slightly larger at 4716 mm long and 1897 mm wide, providing a roomy and comfortable ride.

• Safety Features: The XC60 features advanced safety systems, including Cross-Traffic Alert and Blind Spot Information. The BMW X3 includes Attentiveness Assistance and Dynamic Stability Control, enhancing overall safety and driver confidence.

BMW X3 vs Mercedes-Benz GLC

• Headlights and Wheels: The GLC features striking LED High-Performance headlights, enhancing visibility with warm-white light. The BMW X3's adaptive LED headlights with 'J-blades' offer a sharper, more modern look. The GLC comes with 19-inch light alloy wheels. The BMW X3 offers 19-inch optional wheels, adding to its sporty stance, although it has a standard 19-inch size.

• Design Elements: The GLC's polished trim offers a sophisticated look. On the other hand, the X3 has aggressive bumpers and a sporty side that improves its appeal.

• Seating and Infotainment System: The GLC's seats are available in several premium colours. The X3 seats are comfortable and spacious but lack climate control and massage functions. Besides, the GLC's MBUX system provides advanced connectivity and over-the-air updates. The X3 has a responsive infotainment system with gesture controls but fewer connected services.

• Engine Choices: The GLC offers a 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engine with strong performance. The X3 comes with a 2.0-litre diesel and a more powerful 3.0-litre petrol engine for enhanced performance. Next, the GLC features a 9-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifts. The X3's 8-speed automatic gearbox provides precise and efficient gear changes. The GLC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 to 8 seconds. The X3's quicker models achieve 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, offering a sportier ride.

• Ground Clearance and Boot Space: The GLC has a ground clearance of 201 mm, which is suitable for various terrains. X3's 204 mm clearance and adjustable air suspension provide better off-road capability. The GLC offers 620 litres of boot space. The X3 provides 550 litres, but both can be expanded with rear seat folding for larger cargo. 

BMW X3 vs Audi Q5

• Exterior Body: The Audi Q5 has a wider grille and redesigned headlamps, offering a sleek, modern look. The BMW X3 features a larger grille with adaptive LED headlights and sporty bumper details for a more aggressive appearance.

• Interior Features: The Q5's interior boasts premium materials, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch digital display. In comparison, the X3 has a free-floating 12.3-inch screen, gesture controls, and a sporty steering wheel.

• Engine Specs and Transmission: The Audi Q5's 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine delivers 261 bhp and 370 Nm of torque. The BMW X3 offers a choice between a 2.0-litre diesel engine with 187 bhp or a 3.0-litre petrol engine with 355 bhp. The Q5 uses a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for smooth shifts, while the X3 has an eight-speed automatic gearbox, known for its efficient performance and smooth gear changes.

• Mileage and Ground Clearance: The Audi Q5 achieves 13.47 kmpl, balancing performance with practicality. The BMW X3 offers slightly better mileage, with 16.35 kmpl for petrol and 16.55 kmpl for diesel. Next, the Q5 provides 200 mm of ground clearance, which is suitable for uneven terrain. The X3 offers a higher 204 mm clearance, enhancing its off-road capability and overall driving posture.

• Boot Space and Dimensions: The Q5 has 520 litres of boot space, adequate for luggage. On the other hand, the X3 provides more with 550 litres, and its rear seats fold for additional cargo capacity. In addition, the Q5 measures 4682 mm in length and 2827 mm in wheelbase. The X3 is slightly shorter at 4716 mm in length but has the same wheelbase, ensuring a spacious interior.

• Colour Choices: The Q5 comes in shades like Mythos Black and Navarra Blue. On the other hand, the X3 offers shades such as Phytonic Blue and Brooklyn Grey.

• Safety: The Q5 features a five-star Euro NCAP rating, multiple airbags, and advanced driving aids. The X3 includes standard safety features like traction control, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability.