BMW X3 M

It’s nearly impossible to find a vehicle that has it all, but if there is one that comes close, it’s the X3 M. A performance variant of BMW’s compact luxury crossover SUV, the X3 M delivers as much as 503 horsepower plus sports-car-like handling while also boasting a handsomely appointed interior. If there are pain points, some X3 M owners would say they relate to the athletic Bimmer’s running costs, stiff ride, and thirst for fuel. Still, few rivals in the segment offer a better blend of performance and practicality than the X3 M.

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It’s nearly impossible to find a vehicle that has it all, but if there is one that comes close, it’s the X3 M. A performance variant of BMW’s compact luxury crossover SUV, the X3 M delivers as much as 503 horsepower plus sports-car-like handling while also boasting a handsomely appointed interior. If there are pain points, some X3 M owners would say they relate to the athletic Bimmer’s running costs, stiff ride, and thirst for fuel. Still, few rivals in the segment offer a better blend of performance and practicality than the X3 M.

BMW X3 M Model Lineup

The X3 M is a high-performance variant of BMW’s compact luxury crossover sport-ute, the X3. The five-seater is the smallest SUV wearing the M badge, measuring roughly 11 inches shorter than the X5 M, which cuts a similar profile. The X3 M also shares a number of mechanical components with the X4 M, which is more coupe-like in appearance and stature.

BMW builds the X3 M in two trims: the highly capable base model and the even more performance-oriented Competition. In either guise, it offers a laundry list of standard features, including heated front seats, leather upholstery, and wireless Apple CarPlay. Android Auto joined the standard-features list for 2021, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen became standard in 2022, replacing a 10.3-inch unit. Standard safety features and driving aids include forward collision mitigation, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors. Some notable options include adaptive cruise control, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, an automated parking system, a surround-view camera, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a panoramic sunroof.

Under the hood, the X3 M features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine that makes 473 horsepower in the base version or 503 ponies in Competition form. All versions come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. No hybrid or electric variants have yet been released.

BMW X3 M Owner Reviews

Average Rating for 2020

4.4

230 verified owner reviews

Ratings Compared by Year

Top 2020 Reviews

William C. from OH

Verified Owner · Mar, 2021

2020 BMW X3 M

5.0

The X3M is an excellent vehicle. Superior performance and excellent styling. I would highly recommend.

Constantinos H. from TX

Verified Owner · Feb, 2021

2020 BMW X3 M

4.0

The car is almost perfect. My only comment is about the seats. They could and should had been more comfortable. It's a mid range SUV, not an M2 or an M3. The ride quality from the suspension is perfect and what I expected but it's rough. You should have created a more comfortable performance car by using more comfortable seats, like what you did in the M5. Someone that buys an SUV even a performance one, they still want the comfort but sporty seats also.

Benjamin C. from NY

Verified Owner · Nov, 2020

2020 BMW X3 M

4.0

It's an overall fun vehicle to own and it's still able to use for a small family. Beware of the gas mileage because it's not friendly in that aspect but it's understandable as to why that is.

Harold B. from MD

Verified Owner · Nov, 2020

2020 BMW X3 M

5.0

I would recommend that they purchase an X5 if the X3 is to small - After several months of driving, I think the X5 would have been a better purchase than the M class; although I am extremely satisfied with the X3 for getting around town and short trips

Randall R. from MI

Verified Owner · Nov, 2020

2020 BMW X3 M

4.0

Great performance, great styling

Cameron W. from TX

Verified Owner · Nov, 2020

2020 BMW X3 M

4.0

I would buy this vehicle again in a heartbeat but the ride is harsh and jarring on anything other than perfect surfaces

Gregory S. from IL

Verified Owner · Oct, 2020

2020 BMW X3 M

5.0

You will like it, fun to drive, fast, and safe.

Brad R. from IL

Verified Owner · Oct, 2020

2020 BMW X3 M

The X3M Competition is a sports car hiding in an SUV body. You can carry luggage, friends or make a shopping trip as easily as you can race it on the track. If you want a refined beast just wanting to roar, but able to take you to the ball in style...the X3M is your chariot.

Sarah O. from OK

Verified Owner · Oct, 2020

2020 BMW X3 M

4.0

It's quick and ready

Brian H. from CA

Verified Owner · Sep, 2020

2020 BMW X3 M

There is a huge lag when taking off from a stop biggest downfall of the vehicle