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2017 BMW X3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2017 BMW X3 is a light equipment-update year, led by a smartphone interface becoming standard across the lineup. The xDrive35i also gains standard keyless entry and front-seat lumbar support, while the engines and overall design carry over.
About the 2017 BMW X3
2nd generation X3 (F25, 2011-2017 in the U.S.), post-2015 refresh, final model year before the all-new 2018 redesign.
BMW sells the X3 as a compact luxury SUV that mixes sporty road manners with everyday usefulness. Official BMW material emphasizes its premium cabin feel, generous cargo space, flexible rear seat, and driver-focused character, while reviewers still describe it as practical and enjoyable to drive. For most shoppers, the X3 is the BMW choice for getting family and cargo space without giving up the more controlled, more engaging feel that helped separate it from softer luxury-SUV rivals.
The 2017 range runs from the rear-wheel-drive sDrive28i to the all-wheel-drive xDrive28i, with both using a 240-hp turbo four-cylinder engine. The xDrive28d focuses on fuel economy with a 180-hp diesel, while the xDrive35i is the performance-oriented version with a 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, panoramic moonroof, adaptive headlights, and premium surround-sound audio.
What changed, by category
Tech
A smartphone interface changes from optional to standard across the lineup. The xDrive35i also gains standard keyless entry and front-seat lumbar support.
2017 BMW X3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd Stptrnc Spt | Auto, 8-Spd Stptrnc Spt | Auto, 8-Spd Stptrnc Spt | Auto, 8-Spd Stptrnc Spt |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Diesel | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 21 mpg | 27 mpg | 21 mpg | 19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 34 mpg | 28 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 240 hp | 180 hp | 240 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft | 300 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3000 lb | 3000 lb | 3000 lb | 3000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 27.6 cu-ft | 27.6 cu-ft | 27.6 cu-ft | 27.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.5 in | 36.5 in | 36.5 in | 36.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| LED Tail Lights | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2017 BMW X3 compared with the 2016 model?
The main 2017 change is a standard smartphone interface across the X3 lineup. The xDrive35i also adds standard keyless entry and front-seat lumbar support; the engines, body design, chassis, and broad safety equipment carry over.
Was the 2017 BMW X3 redesigned?
No, the 2017 BMW X3 was not redesigned. It is the final model year of the second-generation X3 and follows the styling update introduced for 2015; the all-new redesign arrived for 2018.
Does every 2017 BMW X3 have a smartphone interface?
Yes, a smartphone interface is standard across the 2017 BMW X3 lineup. It had been optional for 2016.
What equipment was added to the 2017 BMW X3 xDrive35i?
The 2017 X3 xDrive35i adds keyless entry and front-seat lumbar support as standard equipment. It retains its 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive.
Did the 2017 BMW X3 get new engines?
No, the 2017 BMW X3 carries over the same three engines: a 240-hp gasoline four-cylinder, a 180-hp diesel four-cylinder, and a 300-hp gasoline six-cylinder. All use an eight-speed automatic transmission.
2017 BMW X3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 BMW X3.
4.3
2017 BMW X3
(1,035 reviews)
“Well engineered car for everyday use, including the winter driving in New England.”
“You will just love driving a BMW. It is the ultimate driving experience. No other vehicle compares to the quality and workmanship of the BMW.”