Edmunds' expert review gives the BMW X3 a strong overall score, calling it one of the most enjoyable compact luxury SUVs on the market. The test team highlights the X3's responsive steering, composed handling, and smooth power delivery from both four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines. The cabin features high-quality materials, supportive front seats, and an easy-to-use touchscreen interface. Edmunds also appreciates the competitive cargo capacity and wide range of standard driver-assistance tech. Criticisms involve the firm ride with the sport suspension and the hefty price of optional packages. Edmunds recommends the xDrive30i with the Premium package as the sweet spot for most buyers, and the M40i for serious performance, concluding it remains a compelling pick.

MotorTrend's review describes the BMW X3 as a vehicle that delivers genuine driving excitement. The magazine praises the X3's chassis tuning, which provides a rare combination of agility and stability. The M40i model, with its 382-hp inline-six, accelerates with authority and sounds great. MotorTrend also lauds the versatile interior with comfortable seating and useful cargo space. The styling is conservative but attractive. The base four-cylinder is adequate, but the six-cylinder is the enthusiast's choice. Downsides include a busy ride on rough surfaces and some cost-cutting interior trim pieces. MotorTrend concludes that while there are many good luxury compact SUVs, the X3 stands out for its performance and driving dynamics, appealing strongly to those who see an SUV as a driver's car.