The 2023 BMW X3 will compete to be the best new luxury compact SUV. It rivals popular models like the Mercedes-Benz GLE. Is the 2023 BMW X3 SUV really worth over $45,000?

Is the 2023 BMW X3 really worth over $45,000?

The 2023 BMW X3 starts at $45,400. It uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to make 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The base model goes from 0-60 miles per hour in 6.0 seconds. The quickest model, the X3 M Competition, can go from 0-60 miles per hour in just 3.7 seconds.

The 2023 BMW X3 M can reach a top speed of 155 miles per hour. The X3 achieves 23 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway. It is expected to release sometime this July.

The 2022 model year is considered one of the next luxury compact SUV options on the market. Most of its rivals are within the same price range as the 2023 model year. So, is the latest BMW X3 overpriced? Not for its vehicle segment. Luxury SUVs come with luxury price tags. Now, is the X3 the best compact SUV for the money? That’s a different story entirely.

You don’t have to pay luxury prices for a luxurious compact SUV

If you aren’t sold on the BMW X3, don’t fret. You don’t need to buy a luxury SUV to get plenty of standard creature comforts and luxurious features. There are plenty of affordable final trim level compact SUVs that offer comfort and performance specs that are reminiscent of luxury models.

The 2022 Honda CR-V Touring is an example of an affordable compact SUV that’s loaded with great standard features like a wireless phone charger, Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock, and Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow.

If you’re looking for the closest thing to a luxury compact SUV, your best bet is the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature. The Turbo Signature starts at $39,000. It features Caturra Brown Nappa Leather-trimmed seats and heated front and rear seats. The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature also comes standard with paddle shifters.

The CX-5 Turbo Signature includes a heated steering wheel, a genuine layered wood trim interior, and a wireless phone charger. Mazda’s compact SUV’s final trim level is as close to a luxury SUV that compact SUVs get.

Should you buy a 2023 BMW X3?

The BMW X3 may not be the best compact SUV for the money, but few automakers know luxury like BMW. There’s somethin’ about a luxury automobile that makes spending over $45,000 seem easy. The X3 is a status symbol as well as a representation of modern German engineering. Car and Driver praises the X3’s acceleration and great handling. So, if it’s a luxury experience you’re after, the BMW X3 delivers enough to justify its price tag.

Learn how the BMW X3 compares to the Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature in the next article below.