The BMW X3 originally started as the smaller version of the BMW X5, three generations ago. Worldwide trends have led to the 2020 models becoming much more popular than their original base model 20 years ago.
If you are looking for a good second-hand BMW X3, what you want is reliability, durability and comfort. The 2014 – 2017 models all fit the criteria with solid drivetrains and a reputation for high-quality vehicles. Few drivers have reported any serious faults, even after having passed the vehicle’s warranty.
The BMW 2014 X3
The second-generation BMW X3 2014 has proven itself to be a reliable car over the years. This family SUV offers a wide cabin, ample legroom, good head space and a very solid engine. You can expect the performance you usually would from a BMW and it delivers.
Engine possibilities
Both Engine choices of the 2014 X3 are great, even when purchased second-hand. It comes in a four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, as well as an xDrive35i, a 3-litre inline-6. The 2-liter engine rarely suffers any faults and brings an enviable fuel economy for a BMW. The 3-liter one is also a great choice, but has a slightly worse fuel economy.
Both of these engines are durable enough to power a second-hand vehicle and still be reliable.
The four-cylinder engine goes from 0 – 62 mph (0-100km/h) in 6.8 seconds, and gets an average estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 28 mph on the highway.
The 3.0-liter turbocharged engine, on the other hand, impresses with 300 horsepower below the hood and with the same eight-speed automatic transmission is able to reach from 0 – 62 mph in just 5.6 seconds.
The average estimated fuel economy of the larger engine option is 19 mpg in city traffic and 26 mpg on the highway, which is reasonably lower than the smaller engine and was expected. More power often comes at the price of worse fuel economy.
Interior of the BMW 2014 X3
The interior of the BMW surpasses all expectations. With its comfortable leather seats, it is a good vehicle for both longer trips and bumpy rides slightly off the road.
Leather, metal and wood are used in a luxurious combination, giving the cabin an elevated feel. Not only that, but the backseat is quite ample and roomy and the trunk is big enough to fit the luggage of a family of four.
The iDrive electronics interface is equipped with a Bluetooth phone connectivity device and cherishes the sound of a 12-speaker sound system. Auxiliary audio input as well as an iPod and USB audio jacks can help you listen to your favorite music.
Features of the BMW 2014 X3
Driver assistance is available in the X3 and operates through front and rear parking sensors, as well as a rearview camera to aid the driver when parking or going backwards.
Features like auto-dimming mirrors, cruise control, auto headlights, wipers and an automatic climate control are things you would normally expect of a luxury SUV. All of these and many others are covered by the X3.
Depending on your choice, if you are purchasing a premium package second-hand X3, you will most likely bump into one of these features that were available as an add-on to the initial purchase: front seat four-way lumbar support, keyless entry and ignition, heated front seats and steering wheel, a smartphone app and satellite radio.
How safe and reliable is an old BMW 2014 X3?
The standard version of the 2014 X3 comes with front seat airbags and side curtain full-length airbags on all sides. It further improves the safety of the passengers through the use of head restraints, hill descent control and stability control features. It also includes antilock disc brakes, and automatic brake drying, which is very useful when it is raining.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tested the X3 and gave it the highest possible rating for safety for all the frontal-offset, roof strength and side-impact crash tests. Consumer reports also gave the 2014 and 2017 X3 models 4 out 5 in terms of reliability, which is way above average.
Competitors in the segment of BMW X3
Compared to its competitors like Mercedes GLK350 and Audi Q5, the BMW X3 has a more ample and quality interior. On the other hand, it is less fuel efficient since its counterparts come in diesel and even hybrid options. Despite being a slightly pricier pick, the BMW X3 is on top of the game in the segment and is often recommended over its competitors for a reason.
More about the BMW X3
How expensive are BMW X3s to maintain and own?
The average cost of a BMW X3 repair is estimated to be between $300 and $420. Depending on how serious the damage or malfunction is, BMW X3 repairs tend to vary from as small as $100, all the way up to $5000 for drivetrain issues. Oil changes would most likely be the most common servicing you would need to do, like most cars.
What’s the difference between BMW’s X3 and X5?
The main difference between the two models is sheer size. The X5 is slightly more expensive but is a larger vehicle in total. The BMW X3 is smaller and costs less, but it doesn’t lack the power and luxury that the BMW brand stands for.
The X3 is a much more comfortable commuting vehicle for city use than the BMW X5, since it is more maneuverable and easier to park.
How many miles do most BMW X3s last?
The mileage your vehicle can reach before it is no longer good for use depends mostly on how it has been driven and how often it has been serviced and maintained. Most BMW X3s can reach all the way up between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, if they have been properly maintained and driven non-aggressively.
