BMW X3 30 First Drive Review - Mistakes Maketh Machine

To err is human. And I think BMW erred when it discontinued the 30i trim from the third-generation X3, and then skipped it totally when it launched the fourth-gen model back in 2025.

But it now seems to be getting back on track, giving the petrol X3 a much-needed bump in power with the newly-introduced 30 xDrive M Sport Pro trim - yeah, that’s the name! What it means is that the B48 engine now produces 255bhp and 400Nm of peak torque!

BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Performance and Driving Experience

The 67bhp power difference from the X3 20 is quite evident the moment you step on the accelerator. Overtakes are effortless, and highway runs are handled with ease. There is plenty of power for your daily grind, and then some more to please the enthusiast in you.

Mated to the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol motor is the familiar ZF 8-speed gearbox – by far, one of the finest automatic transmissions I’ve sampled. It offers buttery smooth shifts and perfectly complements the potent motor. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup – both included as standard – complete the mechanical package.

The SUV handles remarkably well for its size and weight. The tyres – which are wider now – offer impressive grip levels and keep the car planted, ensuring a grin on your face every time you take a corner. While the ride is reasonably comfortable, it feels a bit stiff at low speeds but never becomes harsh or unsettling.

While the handling is top-notch, the steering itself lacks feedback and seems almost lifeless. It takes away from what’s otherwise a great driver’s package. Moreover, the brakes could have done with a sharper bite.

BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Design and Exterior Styling

The X3 is one of the better-looking Bimmers out there, at least to my eye. It has a distinct character that makes it instantly recognisable among BMW SUVs. The front features a rather good-looking illuminated grille and striking matrix headlamps. To be honest, the Brooklyn Grey Metallic colour that you see on these pages doesn’t translate well in pictures; in person, however, it complements the car beautifully.

The long bonnet enhances the car’s appeal, and the 20-inch rims, complete with red brake callipers, suit the profile well. The rear end features sharp taillights, and I am glad that BMW hasn’t succumbed to the current craze for connected light setups. Overall, the design feels cohesive and leaves little room for complaint.

BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Interior, Technology and Cabin Quality

What truly raises eyebrows – for the wrong reasons – is the interior. There’s a noticeable lack of physical controls, with almost every function confined to the central touchscreen. The screen itself looks sleek and expansive, but it’s far from intuitive. The point where the screen meets the dashboard – where you’d naturally rest your fingers while operating it – feels sharp and uncomfortable. There are a few buttons on the centre console, but they lack any satisfying tactility.

What further exacerbates the problem is that BMW has complicated the air-conditioning vent adjustment mechanism by placing tiny joysticks in separate housings. You are never sure whether the vents are set to your desired position. Even the fan-speed controls are embedded in a touch-sensitive panel – it forces you to take your eyes off the road, raising legitimate safety concerns.

The cabin’s extensive use of hard plastics feels out of place, while the piano black finish attracts dust, fingerprints, and scratches all too easily. The vegan leather on the dashboard also detracts from the car’s premium appeal.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. Experiencing the interior at night is a revelation. The ambient lighting looks stunning and stands out as the cabin’s undisputed highlight.

The cabin’s sound insulation is excellent, cocooning occupants from the world outside. The front seats offer impressive comfort, aided by extendable under-thigh support. It’s puzzling, however, that BMW hasn’t provided the same feature for rear passengers. The rear seatback is rather upright and lacks recline adjustment. Also, the overall space falls short of expectations, particularly given that the iX1 LWB offers significantly more room at a much lower price.

BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Verdict and Price

Overall, the X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro is a fundamentally good performer that rectifies the X3 xDrive 20’s primary shortfall: lack of power. It looks the part, handles superbly, and remains the standout choice for those who prefer to drive themselves. That said, it’s marred by overly complicated technology, and the rear-seat experience leaves room for improvement.

At Rs 74.5 lakh (ex-showroom) – merely Rs 2 lakh more than the xDrive20 trim – there’s little reason to opt for the less potent version of the X3. Does that make it a no-brainer in the midsize luxury driver’s SUV class against the GLC, Q5, NX, and XC60? Well, I guess it’s time for a rematch.