There are many options.
The third-generation BMW X3 isn’t much different than its predecessor. However, the premium crossover packs lots new technology including an optional digital instrument panel. BMW’s configurator allows early adopters to build the most luxurious CUV on the market. After $995 destination, the base 2018X3 xDrive30i costs $43,445. However, if you tick every box for the $54,300X3M40i, the price will rise to $70,000.
The M40i is standard with a turbocharged 3.0-liter Inline Six with 355 horsepower and 369 lbft, and an 8-speed automatic gearbox. M Sport components are standard on the exhaust, suspension, brakes, and wheels. The vehicle comes standard with full LED headlights and a panoramic moonroof. It also has automatic 3-zone climate control and 14-way power front chairs.
The X3 is available in six colors. The only option is Alpine White. Prices for Carbon Black Metallic and Black Sapphire Metallic, Glacier Silver Metallics, Dark Graphite Metallics, Glacier Silver Metallics, Dark Graphite Metallics, and Phytonic Blue Metallic are $550 more.
You can also upgrade the exterior by purchasing one of the optional sets. These wheels will replace the 19-inch stock units. For $950, a set of 20-inch, double-spoke, two-tone wheels can be purchased. Or, for $1,900, you can purchase 21-inch, double-spoke pieces in Cerium Gray.
Only one performance option is the $700 Adaptive Suspension, which adds electronically adjustable dampers to lower the ride height by 0.4 inches.
The standard interior upholstery options include a fully black leatherette cabin, or a mixture of Canberra Beige & black. The X3 costs $1,700 more if you choose to add black, Mocha or Oyster leather, as well as Cognac and Mocha leathers. There are five trim options available, all of which are free: Dark Oak Wood (bright Aluminum Rhombicle), Aluminum, Fineline Cove Matte Finish Wood and Gray Poplar Wood.
Although these costs don’t seem to be too high, the cost of option packs can really add up. The Premium Package is the most expensive at $2,950. It also includes $350 for front and back heated seats.
The high-tech Executive package is available for $2,550 more. The Executive Package adds a 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster and gesture control to the iDrive system. It also includes the ability to receive calls and adjust the stereo volume using a wave of your hand. Additional safety equipment includes parallel parking assistance, park distance control and surround view cameras.
The $1,700 Driving Assistance Plus and the $900 Driving Assistance Pack provide additional safety technology. Active Blind Spot Detection is included in the first package. Lane Departure Warning is also included in the latter. Active Cruise Control can bring the vehicle completely to a halt. It also includes lane departure warnings, frontal collision warnings, city collision mitigation, and pedestrian protection.
BMW offers several options beyond the package, such as a $550 trailer hitch and $250 manual shade for the second row side windows. There are also $500 options for wireless device charging and on-board Wi-Fi hotspots. Apple CarPlay costs $300 and a Harman Kardon stereo with 16 speakers is $875. 150 is the cost of a space-saver spare wheel. BMW’s Ultimate Care+ provides $600 for the replacement of wear items.
Motor1 still hasn’t had a chance to drive the new X3, but Senior Editor Jake Holmes was able to take a ride in one. The engine’s loud noises, such as “crackles and burbles” on overrun, were a result of engineers tuning the inline-six specifically to make these sounds.