The 2018 BMW X3 is a compact luxury crossover SUV that competes in the same class as the Audi Q5, Lexus NX and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

The second generation of X3s began with the 2018 model year. The 2018 X3 has new exterior styling, more luxurious interior and offers turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines.

Here’s a quick outline of the X3’s specifications.

• The 2018 X3 is built on a modular platform it shares with 3 Series and 4 Series models.

Pricing

• The 2018 X3 starts at $42,650 plus a $995 destination charge.
• Top-of-the-line M40i Sports Activity Vehicle starts at $54,500 plus a $995 destination charge and can reach $65,000 with options.
• The 2017 X3 started at $40,050 plus a $995 destination charge.

Trims

• The 2018 X3 is available in two trims: xDrive30i and M40i.
• No hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full-electric powertrains are available.
• The range-topping M40i model comes equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, panoramic moonroof, 8.3-inch infotainment display, iDrive 6.0 infotainment and control system and 12-speaker/205-watt sound system. Automatic three-zone climate control, satin aluminum roof rails and black chrome exhaust tips are also standard on the M40i.
• All models come with a 4-year/50,000-mile vehicle limited warranty and 12-year limited anti-perforation warranty.
• All-wheel drive is standard on all models.
• 18-inch alloy wheels are standard on all X3 models. 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels are optionally available.

Dimensions

• The 2018 X3 has a 112.8-inch wheelbase, 185.9-inch overall length and a 74.4-inch width.

Powertrain

• The BMW X3 xDrive30i is equipped with a 248-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The X3 M40i is equipped with a 355-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder engine.
• The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 258 pound-feet of torque. The 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine produces 369 pound-feet of torque.
• No hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full electric powertrains are available.
• All-wheel drive is standard on all models.
• The X3 uses an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Towing

• Maximum towing capacity for a 2018 BMW X3 is 4,400 pounds.

Mileage

• EPA fuel economy estimates for xDrive30i are 23 mpg in city driving, 27 mpg in highway driving and 25 mpg combined.

Safety

• All X3 models are equipped with six standard airbags, including head-curtain airbags for both rows, pre-collision with auto braking, blind-spot monitoring, vehicle exit assist and rear cross-traffic alert.
• Optional safety and driver-assistance technology includes rear-passenger outboard thorax side airbags, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane-keeping assist, left-turn assist and traffic sign recognition.

Infotainment

• The standard infotainment system includes a 6.5-inch display, voice recognition and Bluetooth streaming. The screen also provides the display for the standard rear-vision camera. The standard sound system has 12 speakers and a 205-watt digital amplifier. Compatibility with Apple CarPlay is optional, but Android Auto compatibility is not on the options list.
• A 10.25-inch infotainment system with integral navigation is available. Driving information appears on the optional 8.8-inch instrument screen or the 12.3-inch screen of the digital instrument cluster. Mobile Wi-Fi and 4G data are optional as well.
• The top-level audio system is made by Harman Kardon with 16 speakers. It is optional, even on the highest-level M40i trim.

Comfort & Convenience

• The X3 has three 12-volt power outlets in the front center console storage compartment, rear center console and cargo area.
• All trim levels come with two USB ports in the center console.
• The X3’s rear liftgate is power-operated.
• Leather seating is optional across the line. Heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats are also optional.

Editor’s note: All photos courtesy of BMW.