MOTORING REVIEW: BMW’s X3 PHEV is great family option, but expensive

THE X3 is one of BMW's core SUV models, with over 3.5 million sold worldwide since its launch in 2003. My latest review car from the Bavarian Motor Works, to give the company its proper name, was the X3 xDrive M Sport Plug-in Hybrid version — an excellent option for drivers who prefer not to choose a diesel. The car combines luxury and practicality, making it highly suitable for families, while the M Sport trim enhances its sporty appeal. This plug-in hybrid offers comfort, electric and hybrid driving flexibility, and excellent handling dynamics. Although my car's exterior was painted in a curious shade called Dune Grey, it resembled beige, which looked quite attractive against the black pillars and dark privacy glass.

The front of the car commanded an impressive presence. Below the high bonnet, the kidney grille and headlight unit make a bold statement. This hybrid version features the new BMW kidney Iconic Glow, which becomes especially striking in the dark, along with unique bumper designs. From the side, stylish 21-inch alloy wheels with aluminium inlays and red callipers are part of the M Sport package. Horizontal lines at the rear accentuate the car’s width.

The black and cream interior features a mix of textiles — some lovely, others less so. The dashboard curves around the driver and passenger, and the beautiful cream leather-like seats are as comfortable as they look; the driver’s seat offers four power adjustments, including lumbar support, and two memory settings. Front seats can also be heated.

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A large, curved display dominates the dashboard, combining a 12.3-inch customisable digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch central touchscreen operated by BMW iDrive 9. The central console retains the rotary iDrive Controller, which I found easier to manage while on the move than navigating through screen menus. The apps include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, BMW ID, Personal Assistant, Alexa, messages, maps, notifications, seat comfort controls, parking aids, and an owner’s handbook. There is no Head Up Display. Volume controls are located on the flat surface of the central console and on the steering wheel. The dual-zone climate control bars at the bottom of the screen are simple to operate while driving, and paddle shifters in the leather steering wheel enable you to upshift or downshift. The transmission selector sits on the central console beside the iDrive Controller.

The vehicle features two USB ports and a wireless phone charger at the front, as well as a large front armrest with a 12V socket below. Storage options include sizeable door bins and a decent glovebox. The Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System enhances the entertainment experience. The Interaction Bar provides multi-coloured ambient lighting, capable of illuminating the interior in 15 colours, though I found the bright lights somewhat distracting during night driving.

Rear passengers enjoy comfortable seating with ample headroom and extended leg space, though the high tunnel can make the middle seat less comfortable for adults. Rear occupants also have their own climate controls.

My car was equipped with a power tailgate and a high boot floor with side netted areas, including a First Aid Kit. Boot capacity is 460 litres with the seats up, which is less than the 570 litres offered by non-hybrid X3 models due to the space occupied by the battery beneath the boot floor. There is also a compartment below the floor for the charging cables. The vehicle includes only a tyre repair kit.

Helpful blind spot monitors on the side mirrors, an excellent reversing camera, and front and rear parking sensors aid driving and parking manoeuvres.

Drive modes include Hybrid, Electric (ideal for urban driving), and Sport. The M Sport pack features options designed to make the car look and feel even more sporty.

This hybrid was a pleasure to drive, offering a sporty yet smooth ride. All engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. I appreciated the direct steering, as in the X3. The PHEV’s 450 Nm torque is delivered by its 2.0 turbocharged petrol engine combined with an electric motor. When I took delivery, the total available range was 617 km.

The car can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds, reach a top speed of 215 km/h, and boasts an official electric range of up to 90 km (WLTP). The annual road tax is €140.

The X3 hasn't yet been crash tested by Euro NCAP, so it currently holds no official safety rating for 2025. It is manufactured at the BMW Rosslyn plant in South Africa.

The base price was €71,620.00. Options and packages added €8,955.23, bringing the total for my test car to a hefty €80,575.23.