BMW’s X3 M40i luxury compact SUV is updated for 2022 with styling revisions including a redesigned kidney grille, new headlights and taillights, new front and rear bumpers, and a more pronounced exhaust trim. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system is added to improve efficiency, the infotainment system is upgraded, and the range of driver assistance tech has been expanded.
The 2022 X3 M40i showcases BMW’s penchant for superb design, build quality, and performance.
There’s more power on tap in the brain-rattling M-division versions, but it’s over the top for drivers who won’t be using their X3 on a track. The M40i model draws plenty of power from its turbocharged six-cylinder engine: 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, more than enough to safely get around slow drivers, exhibit authority on the freeway, or get some kicks. Meanwhile, it returns decent fuel economy at the rate of 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. It calls for premium fuel, however.
An excellent eight-speed automatic transmission partners with the six-cylinder to create a loving couple.
New taillight design is part of the styling revisions on the 2022 BMW X3. (Manufacturer photo)
The 2022 BMW X3 M40i costs $58,795 including a $995 destination charge.
Official seating capacity is five passengers, but the car’s compact size dictates a sub-wonderful situation for three adults in the rear seats. On the upside, legroom is pretty generous: 36.4 inches.
The cargo area provides 28.7 cubic feet of space with rear seats in upright position, and 62.7 cubic feet with those seats folded. One of the M40i’s greatest virtues is in giving buyers the celebrated BMW driving experience along with the practical benefits of an SUV. All-wheel drive is included, too.
The body’s stalwart construction gives the impression any wayward car coming into contact with it would just glance off.
Overall conditions inside the X3 M40i are fantastic. Occupants are spared jarring and undue noise, and in my case, observing how meticulously everything is put together contributes greatly to the enjoyment. The infotainment system didn’t jump out at me with intuitiveness, but neither did it confound with a lack thereof. To its everlasting credit there’s a physical knob for volume adjustment.
My test car’s substantial list of standard features was augmented by a nice Premium package adding heat for the steering wheel and all seats, an M Sport differential, 20-inch M-style wheels, carbon fiber trim, and beautiful Carbon Black Metallic paint.
High quality materials and construction are on display inside the 2022 BMW X3 luxury compact SUV. (Manufacturer photo)
2022 BMW X3 M40i
Base price, including destination charge: $58,795
Price as driven: $64,990
Mary Lowry is a member of the Motor Press Guild and a member and past president of the Northwest Automotive Press Association. She lives in Snohomish County. Vehicles are provided by automotive manufacturers as a one-week loan for evaluation purposes only. Manufacturers do not control content of the reviews.
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