2026 BMW X3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2026 BMW X3 is a light carryover update following its full 2025 redesign. The main change is limited to the M50, where LED headlights are optional rather than standard.
About the 2026 BMW X3
4th gen (G45), second model year after the 2025 redesign.
BMW positions the X3 as a compact luxury SUV that mixes everyday usefulness with a stronger sense of driver involvement than many rivals. BMW’s 2026 messaging centers on control, adventure, and a clean, technology-heavy cabin, while the US lineup uses standard all-wheel drive on both gasoline trims. For most shoppers, the X3 is a premium do-everything SUV: roomy enough for commuting, family use, and road trips, but tuned to feel more responsive and athletic than softer luxury crossovers.
The xDrive30 is the balanced everyday X3, with a 255-hp turbo four-cylinder, AWD, a 14.9-inch curved display, and standard parking and driver-assistance features. The M50 is the performance-focused version, pairing a 393-hp turbo inline-six with upgraded suspension, steering, brakes, and a sportier design.
What changed, by category
2026 BMW X3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Steptronic | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Steptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 30 mpg | 33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 393 hp | 255 hp |
| Torque | 428 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 67.1 cu-ft | 67.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in | 36.3 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| LED Tail Lights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between the 2026 and 2025 BMW X3?
The main difference is that the M50’s LED headlights are optional for 2026 instead of standard. Otherwise, the two-trim US lineup and the major features introduced with the 2025 redesign carry over.
Was the 2026 BMW X3 redesigned?
No. The BMW X3 was redesigned for 2025, and the 2026 model is the second year of that fourth-generation design. Its exterior, interior, body structure, and chassis setup carry over.
Did the 2026 BMW X3 engines change?
No. The xDrive30 keeps its 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while the M50 keeps its 393-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. Both use an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD.
What trims does the 2026 BMW X3 have in the US?
The 2026 US lineup has two trims: xDrive30 and M50 xDrive. The xDrive30 is the everyday model, while the M50 adds a stronger six-cylinder engine and performance-focused suspension, steering, and brakes.
Did the 2026 BMW X3 get new safety or infotainment features?
No verified safety or infotainment changes were made for 2026. The X3 keeps the curved-display cockpit, BMW Operating System 9, standard Parking Assistant, and the driver-assistance features introduced for 2025.