2026 BMW X3

Luxurious and practical with a sporty edge, the 2026 BMW X3 is one of our favorites in the compact luxury SUV realm. Its strong combination of technology, fresh design, and ample space for the class makes it an even smarter choice after last year’s generational updates. If you’re looking for a right-sized premium SUV that doesn’t give up much to larger, more expensive models, the 2026 X3 is a great place to start.

Completely redesigned for a new generation last model year, the 2026 BMW X3 is expected to move forward with few changes. The X3 is now in its fourth generation.

Despite the all-new model arriving just last year, pricing is up only incrementally compared to the previous generation, keeping the X3 competitive against key rivals like the Audi Q5, Lexus RX, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Volvo XC60, all of which are priced to start within a couple thousand dollars of the X3, although the Q5 does offer a slightly less expensive base model. The Porsche Macan is somewhat smaller and sportier, and starts considerably higher. Lower-priced alternatives to the 2026 BMW X3 include the Acura RDX, Genesis GV70, and the Lexus NX.

Before buying a new X3 compact luxury SUV, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to see what you should be paying. The X3’s resale values for the new generation are still being determined, but the previous model has held its value well, performing substantially better than the class average. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

Fans of engaging SUVs know the BMW X3 has always had a certain charm. While it won’t shame BMW’s own sedans, it’s often surprising just how close the X3 comes to sedan-like agility and performance. Yet despite the X3’s spry nature, it also rides well.

For this latest generation, BMW says it has expanded the X3’s bandwidth even further, with more agile handling and a more comfortable ride quality.

The entry-level 255-horsepower X3 is plenty quick, accelerating from a standstill to 60 mph in just six seconds. Those seeking more muscle to complement the X3’s handling will appreciate the 393-hp X3 M50 and its ability to hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds — about 0.2 of a second quicker than the pricier Porsche Macan.

Fuel Economy

Despite the quick acceleration and ample power, the X3 is also efficient. The 2025 model rates 29 mpg combined in base form, or 27 mpg combined achieved by the M50 variant. The 2026 model hasn’t yet been rated, but it is likely to return identical figures.

We expect the previous X3’s strengths to carry forward into the fourth-generation model, meaning it exudes the same feel of quality and high-tech elegance we’re all accustomed to, but with fresh style and new features and equipment.

The X3 has plenty of space, topping its class for legroom and cargo volume. The 2026 X3 has 31.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 67.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Compare that to the Audi Q5’s 25.8/54 cubic feet or the Mercedes-Benz GLC’s 21.9/56.3 cubic feet.

The fourth-generation X3’s design will probably not be everyone’s cup of tea, but that’s often the hallmark of good design. Bland is boring, and boring has no place in the world of luxury performance SUVs. The new X3 is most certainly anything but boring, whether to look at or to drive.

Standard navigation

All X3 luxury SUVs come with the latest in BMW navigation, complete with cloud-based maps and live traffic information. The system also integrates with the available head-up display and augmented-reality video system.

BMW Operating System 9

Powering many of the X3’s tech upgrades behind the scenes, this system is the latest from BMW, featuring over-the-air (OTA) updates, a digital assistant, and bonuses like games and media streaming. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.

Parking Assistant Professional

Although the X3 is a nimble machine, parking in tight urban spaces can sometimes be a challenge. That’s where this optional system comes in, taking over for the driver, or even parking with the driver outside the car, observing. The updated system takes curbs, road markings, and the position of other vehicles into account.

BMW Maneuver Assist

This feature of the Parking Assistant Professional package stores up to 10 tricky parking spots and the maneuvers required to enter and exit them. This makes for quicker, smoother parking on subsequent visits.

Traffic Jam Assistant

Another optional driver-assistance feature, this takes the load off the driver in stop-and-go traffic, providing hands-free driving for some of the most attention-demanding situations.

The standard drivetrain in the 2026 X3 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine making 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Performance fans will appreciate the upgrade to the X3 M50 and its turbocharged 6-cylinder engine rated for 393 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque. All 2026 BMW X3 models have standard all-wheel drive, which BMW calls xDrive. Both versions of the X3 sport an 8-speed automatic transmission and mild-hybrid components.

The X3 30 xDrive can tow up to 4,001 pounds, while the M50 xDrive variant can tow 4,850 pounds.

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

BMW’s new-vehicle and powertrain warranties last four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. This is typical for European luxury car makers. Roadside assistance is included for the same period with unlimited mileage. Scheduled maintenance is free for three years or 36,000 miles, which is more generous than some.

Safety

The 2025 X3 scored four stars in crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety technology in the new X3 includes forward collision mitigation, lane-keeping assistance, and active blind-spot monitoring.