“A lot of technology, both good and bad. Resale is terrible after warranty has expired. Especially compared to Toyota.”
2020 BMW X3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2020 BMW X3 is the addition of the xDrive30e, the model’s first plug-in hybrid. It is not a redesign, but the gasoline models also receive useful technology and equipment updates.
About the 2020 BMW X3
3rd generation X3 (G01), introduced for 2018; 2020 is the third model year before the 2022 styling update.
BMW positions the X3 as a compact luxury SUV that mixes sporty road manners with daily usefulness. Official BMW material emphasizes strong driving feel, flexible cargo and rear-seat space, and a more upscale cabin than typical mainstream SUVs. That makes the X3 the choice for drivers who want a family-friendly vehicle that still feels responsive and balanced on the road, with a wide spread of personalities ranging from the core 30i models to a plug-in hybrid and the quicker M40i.
The 2020 lineup ranges from the rear-wheel-drive sDrive30i and all-wheel-drive xDrive30i to the electrified xDrive30e and performance-focused M40i. The xDrive30e combines a gas engine and electric motor for 288 horsepower and up to 18 miles of EPA-rated electric driving, while the six-cylinder M40i adds performance upgrades such as M Sport suspension, brakes, steering, and exhaust.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid joins the lineup with all-wheel drive, 288 combined horsepower, and up to 18 miles of EPA-rated electric driving. The core gasoline engine lineup carries over.
Styling
Updated metal-look interior controls arrive across the lineup. The 30i models also gain standard LED headlights with cornering lights, but there is no full exterior redesign.
Tech
The sDrive30i and xDrive30i gain standard navigation through BMW’s base digital cockpit setup, along with connected services. The M40i gains the higher-end digital instrument and infotainment system with navigation and an upgraded connected-services package. Smartphone integration also becomes standard across the lineup.
2020 BMW X3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Sport & Manual Modes |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Plug-In Hybrid | Gas |
| MPG City | 21 mpg | 25 mpg | 24 mpg | |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | |
| Horsepower | 382 hp | 248 hp | 288 hp | 248 hp |
| Torque | 365 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3000 lb | 3000 lb | 3000 lb | 3000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 28.7 cu-ft | 28.7 cu-ft | 27.2 cu-ft | 28.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.4 in | 36.4 in | 36.4 in | 36.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| MPGe Combined | 60 | |||
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2020 BMW X3?
The biggest change is the new xDrive30e, the first plug-in hybrid version of the X3. It combines a turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine, an electric motor, and all-wheel drive.
Is the 2020 BMW X3 xDrive30e fully electric?
No. The 2020 X3 xDrive30e is a plug-in hybrid with a gas engine and an electric motor. It produces 288 combined horsepower and has up to 18 miles of EPA-rated electric range before relying more heavily on gasoline.
What changed on the 2020 X3 sDrive30i and xDrive30i?
The 2020 sDrive30i and xDrive30i gain standard navigation, connected services, LED headlights with cornering lights, and updated metal-look interior controls. Their core turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains remain in place.
What changed on the 2020 BMW X3 M40i?
The 2020 X3 M40i gains BMW’s higher-end digital instrument and infotainment system with standard navigation, an upgraded connected-services package, and updated metal-look interior controls.
Is the 2020 BMW X3 a redesigned model?
No. The 2020 X3 is the third model year of the third-generation design introduced for 2018. Its changes center on the new plug-in hybrid and added equipment rather than a new body or chassis.
2020 BMW X3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 BMW X3.
4.2
2020 BMW X3
(931 reviews)
“See if the lumbar support hits your body correctly. The lumbar in this car is way too high for my lower back and I have to use a pillow which I never did in my Lexus. I hate that you cannot close the trunk from the inside, very annoying. I also hate that the sunroof does not open, just cracks for air, also very annoying. I unfortunately did not realize these issues from a small test drive.”
“The X3M is an excellent vehicle. Superior performance and excellent styling. I would highly recommend.”