3 New BMW Models Under $50,000 in 2023
The average new car price has now almost reached the heights of $50,000. For that kind of money, buyers can get some decidedly un-average models. Among those are three BMW offerings that can put the prestige of the German automaker’s roundel on buyer’s driveways without necessarily breaking the bank.
1. 2023 BMW X1
The BMW X1 is the smallest crossover in the brand’s lineup, and it rides the 2023 model year debuts the nameplate’s third generation. The 2023 X1 starts at $39,100, excluding destination charges, leaving some room for buyers to add some optional extras to stay under a max budget of $50,000.
The third generation X1 sports new, more aggressive styling with a chiseled exterior and a larger kidney grille. It’s also slightly larger than the outgoing model, giving the subcompact added pragmaticism. To boot, the X1 delivers a sprightly, fun-to-drive character often missing from the subcompact crossover class.
Only one trim is currently offered, the xDrive28i, and it is exclusively powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter cranking out 241 horsepower — 13 more ponies than the 2022 model — and 295 lb-ft of torque.
The X1 is well-equipped with standard features like a power liftgate, ambient lighting, navigation, a 10.7-inch touchscreen, and a suite of driver’s aids. Buyers can also opt for several optional packages that include creature comforts, safety features, and styling tweaks.
2. 2023 BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series has long been a benchmark for the luxury compact sedan segment, and buyers can choose from several versions of the 2023 model year in their garage for under $50,000.
The base 330i starts at $43,800 MSRP and is motivated by a 255-hp turbo 2.0-liter paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive can also be added for an additional $2,000. Those looking to save on fuel costs should consider the plug-in hybrid 330e ($44,900) or its AWD xDrive alternative ($46,900). The 330e is rated for up to 45 MPGe and delivers 288 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
The 3 Series receives a facelift for the 2023 model year and features revamped styling and new technology like a 12.3-inch driver’s display and 14.9-inch center display, standard navigation, a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, and voice assistant. Other standard features on both the 330i and 330e include synthetic leather upholstery, a sunroof, three-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats, and a 10-speaker audio system.
Several optional packages are available for the 330i and 330e, though these must be checked in limited quantities to keep the 3 Series under $50,000.
3. 2023 BMW X3
The BMW X3 serves as the bigger brother to the X1. As such, it will cost buyers more at the dealer, but it still offers ample luxury and driving verve for under $50,000. The rear-wheel drive 2023 X3 sDrive30i starts at $46,200 MSRP, and the all-wheel drive xDrive30i commands $48,200. Both models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder providing 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque with composed and sprightly handling.
As standard, the 30i models feature dual 10.25-inch displays, tri-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate, 19-inch wheels, navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and other features. Standard driver’s aids include front and rear parking sensors, a blind-spot monitor, automatic forward emergency braking, and lane departure warning. Options like a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, adaptive suspension, upgraded brakes, and larger wheels are available for those willing to max out their $50,000 budget or go slightly beyond it.
