The impact of this upsizing is most obvious to see in the cabin, which is very roomy and spacious for what is technically a mid-sized SUV The all-wheel drive and responsive transmission make sure power comes quickly when you need it. To reinforce this, the new X3 gets from 0 to 100kph in just over six seconds, which puts it on a par with the much smaller and sportier VW Golf GTI. But it is actually quicker than another sporty SUV, the Porsche Macan. As with the majority of BMWs, technology is abundant in the X3 and wireless charging, touchscreen technology and the Connected app are all useful additions. But then, there are the questionable add-ons such as the “light carpet”, which projects light onto the floor as you enter and exit the car. The same could be said for the gesture-control monitor that responds to specific hand movements. It seems a bit odd to twirl your fingers in a circular motion to increase the volume of the radio when the volume dial is just next to you and the volume buttons are on the steering wheel. But it is fun to play around with I guess, and it does impress your passengers.
$246,888 including COE
Engine: 1,998cc, four-cylinder, in-line, 16-valve, turbocharged
Power/torque: 249bhp or 252hp/350Nm
Fuel consumption: 7.6L/100km
0 to 100 kph: 6.3 seconds
Top speed: 240kph
Justin Harper is a freelance journalist with a passion for all things fast