
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. The heads-up display is always useful, and I miss it when it is not featured in other cars. Checking your speed and having the current speed limit constantly in view is pretty handy if you do not want to get a ticket. And this is the sort of car you can easily get one in. Not only is it a powerful beast, it is so big and sturdy you can hardly tell when you have reached 100kph. That is a back-handed compliment as it really is a smooth and comfortable ride, however pedal-happy you are. Other useful tech features include Parking Assistant Plus, which will help make parking and moving around tight spaces easier. The 3D surround view is incredibly realistic and makes parking a breeze. You can even see the 3D view on your phone wherever you are, if you have synched it to the BMW Connected app. So if you fall in love with the X3, you can admire it from afar sitting in a restaurant or at work. There is a lot to like about this upsized X3. It would appeal to a family man or woman, along with a trendy urbanite with a quarter of a million dollars to spare. While some car parks may prove a challenge for those not used to the bulk of an SUV, the sensors and cameras come in very useful. The X3 is a winning balance of smooth performance, sportiness, bulk, technology and luxury all wrapped up in an SUV. BMW X3 xDRIVE 30i M SPORT
$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