The All-New X3 Is the Embodiment of BMW's Driving Ethos

BMW wasn't always a mainstream brand. Back in the 60s and 70s, they were known more for sporty coupes like the 1600, 2002, and the first-generation 3 Series (E21).

- By Manny N. De Los Reyes

That all changed when the magicians from Munich made the second-gen 3 Series (E30) available as a four-door sedan in the mid-80s. Sales of the propeller brand skyrocketed. People simply wanted the Bavarian brand's legendary driving dynamics, but in a more versatile four-door form.

Fast forward two decades—when the shift from sedans to SUVs began—and BMW launches the SUV equivalent of the 3 Series, the X3. It was, quite literally, a 3 Series sedan in fine-handling SUV form.

And now, another two decades later, BMW has launched its all-new fourth-generation X3 (G45). And it's now available at your local BMW dealer.

The biggest news is that, while there is only one variant of the G45 available locally (for now), it's the have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too plug-in hybrid version—the P4,790,000 X3 30e xDrive M Sport.

I call it that because this particular X3 delivers the best of both worlds—quintessential BMW driving dynamics with amazing fuel economy and driving range (on a full tank and a full charge).

More than that, this latest X3 looks absolutely stunning and while having grown bigger than ever (BMW now classifies it as a midsize SUV; roughly the same size as the first-gen X5), it beautifully retains the sublime handling that has set BMW apart for over a century.

The latest X3 has an almost monolithic appearance with distinctive BMW X model proportions. Smooth and minimalist surfaces combine with crisply defined lines to present a truly cutting-edge design perfectly in tune in this age of AI.

The large BMW kidney grille in the upright front end gives off an air of assured presence. A new structure for the grille interior, comprising vertically and diagonally arranged bars, adds a fresh touch.