2022 BMW X3

2022 BMW X3 Highlights

The BMW X3 receives a mid-cycle refresh for the 2022 model year, bringing updated styling and technology. The exterior features a reshaped kidney grille, slimmer headlights, and redesigned front and rear bumpers. New wheel designs and revised exhaust tips complete the look. The M40i trim gains a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to improve efficiency, though its total output is still 382 horsepower. Inside, the center console has been redesigned, and some controls have been repositioned for easier access. The standard 10.3-inch infotainment display and digital gauge cluster can now be upgraded to larger 12.3-inch units.

Key Details

• Compact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Refreshed exterior styling for 2022
• Updated interior with redesigned center console
• 48-volt mild-hybrid system added to the M40i trim
• Plug-in hybrid xDrive30e discontinued

Benefits

• Wide range of powerful and efficient turbocharged engines
• Agile handling and comfortable ride quality
• Spacious and well-appointed interior
• Intuitive iDrive infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Comprehensive suite of standard and available driver assistance features

Related: BMW X3 Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

2022 BMW X3 Overview

Performance

The 2022 BMW X3 offers three turbocharged engine choices:

• 2.0-liter inline-four with 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque (sDrive30i and xDrive30i)
• 3.0-liter inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, plus a 48-volt mild-hybrid system (M40i)
• 3.0-liter inline-six with 473 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque (X3 M)

All engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i has rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i and M40i have all-wheel drive. The X3 M uses a performance-tuned all-wheel-drive system.

The base 2.0-liter engine provides ample power for most driving situations, with quick acceleration and smooth power delivery. The M40i's six-cylinder offers a significant performance boost, with the 48-volt mild-hybrid system helping to improve efficiency. According to BMW, the X3 M's high-output engine delivers thrilling acceleration, launching the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2022 BMW X3 a top five-star overall safety rating. In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the 2022 X3 a Top Safety Pick+, the group’s highest designation.

All 2022 X3 models come standard with BMW's Active Driving Assistant, which includes:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Rear collision preparation

Additional safety features are available through option packages or as standalone extras.

Driving

The BMW X3 delivers a well-balanced driving experience, blending athletic handling with a comfortable ride. The SUV feels stable and composed in corners, with minimal body roll and precise steering. The M40i and X3 M offer progressively sharper handling thanks to their adaptive suspensions, larger brakes, and performance tires.

In everyday driving, the X3's suspension smooths out road imperfections, providing a refined ride quality. The cabin is well-insulated from wind and road noise, even at highway speeds. The available adaptive suspension allows drivers to choose between a firmer, sportier setup or a softer, more comfort-oriented ride.

The X3's compact dimensions and good visibility make maneuvering in tight spaces and crowded city streets easy. The standard parking sensors and rearview camera help with low-speed maneuvering, while the available surround-view camera system provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings.

Interior

The 2022 BMW X3 interior is well-crafted with high-quality materials and a clean, modern design. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample headroom and legroom for taller drivers. The rear seats offer enough space for two adults or three children, with supportive cushioning and decent legroom.

Notable interior features include:

• SensaTec upholstery or optional Vernasca leather
• Power-adjustable front seats with driver's seat memory
• 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Panoramic moonroof (optional on sDrive30i and xDrive30i, standard on M40i and X3 M)
• Heated front and rear seats (optional)

Cargo space is competitive for the class, with 28.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 62.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A power liftgate is standard, with a hands-free opening feature available.

Technology

The 2022 X3 comes standard with a 10.3-inch central touchscreen display and a matching 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster. For 2022, BMW offers upgraded 12.3-inch displays for the infotainment system and the instrument panel. The iDrive 7.0 interface is intuitive and responsive, with sharp graphics and customizable menus. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing seamless smartphone integration.

Other tech features include:

• Navigation with real-time traffic updates
• Wi-Fi hotspot (subscription-based)
• Wireless device charging
• Head-up display (optional)
• 12-speaker HiFi Sound System or optional 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound

BMW's Intelligent Personal Assistant is also standard, enabling voice commands for various functions like adjusting the climate control, setting navigation destinations, or finding parking.

Fuel Economy

The EPA rates the 2022 BMW X3's fuel economy as follows:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine:

• RWD (mpg): 23 city / 29 highway / 25 combined
• AWD (mpg): 21 city / 28 highway / 24 combined

3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine (M40i)

• AWD (mpg): 21 city / 26 highway / 23 combined

3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine (X3 M)

• AWD (mpg): 15 city / 20 highway / 17 combined

2022 BMW X3 Reviews

2022 BMW X3 reviews from consumers on Kelley Blue Book have an average rating of 4.3 out of 5. This crossover scores even higher for reliability, performance, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Engaging driving dynamics with a choice of powerful engines
• Spacious and well-crafted interior with premium materials
• Intuitive iDrive infotainment system with modern features
• Comprehensive suite of standard and available driver assistance technologies
• Wide range of customization options to suit individual preferences

Problems

• Higher starting price than some competitors
• Firm ride quality with larger wheels and sportier suspension setups
• Some advanced safety features are bundled into expensive option packages
• Rear-seat legroom may be tight for taller passengers
• Plug-in hybrid model has been discontinued for 2022
• The high-performance X3 M's firm ride and lofty price tag may limit its appeal

Explore: How Long Do BMW X3s Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

CoPilot's Take

The 2022 BMW X3 is a well-rounded luxury compact SUV with an appealing blend of performance, comfort, and technology. Its refreshed styling and updated interior help keep it competitive in a crowded segment, while its range of powerful engines and agile handling make it a joy to drive. The X3's cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system.

While the X3's ride quality can be firm with larger wheels and sportier suspension setups, it remains comfortable enough for daily driving. The discontinuation of the plug-in hybrid model for 2022 may disappoint some eco-conscious buyers, but the M40i's new mild-hybrid system offers a balance of performance and efficiency.

2022 BMW X3 FAQ

What is the predicted reliability of the BMW X3 2022?

The 2022 BMW X3 is expected to have above-average reliability, based on J.D. Power's quality and reliability rating of 85 out of 100. Consumer Reports also gives this BMW a similar score for predicted reliability. These rankings are slightly higher than the average for the luxury compact SUV segment. However, it's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and proper maintenance is critical to ensuring the longevity of any vehicle.

How many years will a 2022 BMW X3 last?

With proper maintenance, a 2022 BMW X3 can last over 200,000 miles. The X3 has a reputation for being a well-built and durable vehicle, with many examples on the road with high mileage and long service lives. However, longevity ultimately depends on factors such as driving habits, environmental conditions, and adherence to the recommended maintenance schedule.

What is the weakness of the 2022 BMW X3?

When considering a 2022 BMW X3 as a used car purchase, potential buyers should be aware of a few potential drawbacks:

• Higher initial cost: Even as a used vehicle, the 2022 BMW X3 may have a higher price point than other luxury compact SUVs due to its premium positioning and strong resale value.
• Firmer ride quality: The X3's sporty suspension tuning, especially when equipped with larger wheels or the M Sport package, may result in a firmer ride compared to some competitors.
• Costly repairs and maintenance: As a luxury vehicle, the 2022 X3 may have higher costs associated with repairs, parts, and routine maintenance than non-luxury brands.
• Complex technology: The X3's advanced infotainment system and driver assistance features may be more complicated than those of other vehicles.
• No plug-in hybrid option: For the 2022 model year, BMW discontinued the X3's plug-in hybrid variant.

Check Out: Are BMWs Reliable? A Complete Breakdown