2010 BMW X3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2010 BMW X3 is a light equipment-update year, led by HD Radio becoming standard. There is no major redesign or mechanical change, and this is the final year of the first-generation X3 in the US.
About the 2010 BMW X3
1st generation (E83, 2004-2010), final year before the full 2011 redesign.
BMW positioned the X3 as a smaller premium SUV for drivers who wanted BMW-style handling without giving up cargo room, a higher seating position, or all-weather capability. In BMW’s own language, it was a “Sports Activity Vehicle,” meaning the focus was more on agility, strong six-cylinder power, and road feel than on soft, isolated cruising. It stood out by blending sport-sedan character with SUV usefulness in a compact footprint.
BMW positioned the 2010 X3 xDrive30i as a small luxury SUV with sporty road manners and everyday practicality. Its 260-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive support confident driving in poor weather. Power front seats with driver memory, automatic climate control, an eight-speaker audio system, and split-folding rear seats balance comfort with cargo flexibility.
What changed, by category
2010 BMW X3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Steptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 260 hp |
| Torque | 225 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 71 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.8 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Alarm System | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Panorama Moon Roof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Roof Rails | |
| Bluetooth | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Heated Steering Wheel | |
| Leather Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2010 BMW X3?
The biggest change is standard HD Radio. Otherwise, the 2010 X3 largely carries over without a redesign or major mechanical update.
Did the 2010 BMW X3 get a different engine or all-wheel-drive system?
No. The 2010 X3 retains the 260-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel-drive system used the year before.
Is a moonroof standard on the 2010 BMW X3?
No. The power moonroof and panoramic moonroof became optional equipment for 2010 after being standard in 2009.
Is 2010 the final year of the first-generation BMW X3?
Yes. The 2010 X3 is the final US model year of the first-generation E83 before the fully redesigned second-generation X3 arrived for 2011.
Is the 2010 BMW X3 a major upgrade over the 2009 model?
No. The 2010 model is a modest equipment update rather than a major upgrade: HD Radio became standard, the moonroof moved to optional equipment, and the main mechanical package carried over.