BMW X3 2021 Review

In the luxury mid-size SUV market in Malaysia, German brands have always occupied a core position. As one of the benchmark models in this segment, the BMW X3 2021 sDrive20i has attracted many consumers who value brand and practicality with its balanced product capabilities. The core selling points of this car lie in BMW's iconic driving dynamics, comprehensive intelligent features, and optimized space. For users looking to own a luxury brand mid-size SUV at the RM300,000 price point, can it truly balance driving pleasure and family needs? This time, we conducted a test drive to verify its real-world performance.

From the exterior, the 2021 X3 sDrive20i continues the tough design style of the BMW family. The front features the iconic kidney grille paired with LED angel eye headlights, offering high recognition; the silver skid plate below the front bumper enhances the off-road aesthetics of the SUV, while the standard front fog lights improve visibility in adverse weather conditions. The side profile of the car is streamlined, with a length of 4708mm and a wheelbase of 2864mm, placing it at the mainstream level in its class. The 19-inch wheels paired with 245/50 R19 tires strike a balance between visual appeal and comfort. At the rear, the LED taillights adopt an L-shaped design, echoing the headlights, while the silver skid plate on the rear bumper and dual exhaust outlets further emphasize the sporty feel.

Inside the car, the luxury and technological ambiance are quite prominent. The dashboard is wrapped in soft-touch materials, complemented by metallic trims, which provide a pleasant tactile and visual experience. The 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and 8.8-inch touchscreen central control display are the highlights of the interior. The instrument cluster offers different display modes, while the central screen supports CarPlay and Android Auto, with smooth operation. The multifunction steering wheel, equipped with paddle shifters, has a comfortable grip. The left-side buttons control multimedia and driver assistance systems. For the seats, the front seats support electric adjustment and memory functions, with firm and moderate padding that ensures comfort during long drives. The rear seats can be folded down in a 40:20:40 split, and legroom is generous; even passengers up to 180cm tall will have about two fist-widths of knee space when seated in the back. In terms of storage, the front central armrest compartment and door pockets offer ample storage capacity. The trunk has a base capacity of 550L, which can be expanded to 1600L by folding down the rear seats, meeting the needs of family trips or transporting large items.

In terms of powertrain, the 2021 X3 sDrive20i is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power of 184PS and a peak torque of 290N·m, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. During actual driving, the power response is quick in the initial phase, providing good acceleration with light throttle input. The mid-to-high-speed acceleration is smooth, and during overtaking, pressing the throttle harder prompts the gearbox to downshift quickly, delivering linear power output. There are three driving modes: ECO, Comfort, and Sport. In ECO mode, throttle response is milder, suitable for daily commuting; in Sport mode, the steering becomes heavier and the power delivery more direct, catering to users seeking driving excitement. Regarding the chassis, the car features a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension with a firm tuning. Body roll is minimal during cornering, providing excellent handling. On bumpy roads, the suspension effectively absorbs shocks, maintaining interior comfort. The braking performance is commendable, with a moderate brake pedal travel and linear brake force output. The braking distance from 100km/h is around 38 meters, consistent with the standard for vehicles in its class.

In terms of fuel consumption, we conducted tests under both urban and highway conditions, achieving a combined fuel consumption of approximately 7.5L/100km, which is not much different from the official figure of 7.1L/100km. The fuel economy performance is quite good. As for noise control, the vehicle suppresses wind and tire noise well during high-speed driving, creating a quiet cabin environment that does not affect passengers’ conversations or listening to music.

Overall, the 2021 BMW X3 sDrive20i performs well in aspects such as appearance, interior, power, and space. Compared to competitors in the same segment, its handling and brand influence are advantages, and the configuration is relatively comprehensive. It is suitable for consumers who value the pleasure of driving and a sense of luxury. If you are a family user pursuing a high-quality lifestyle or a young person who enjoys driving, this car is worth considering.