The BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro is not a new generation model. It is not a cosmetic refresh either. This is a strategic upgrade — one that injects more performance into an already well-rounded luxury SUV.
BMW has taken the familiar X3 formula and added serious horsepower, sharper detailing and uprated hardware. The core package remains unchanged. And that is intentional.
BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Review: Design – Familiar Form, Added Edge
At a glance, this is recognisably the X3. The upright stance, muscular shoulders and balanced proportions remain intact. But the details now push it closer to the sportier end of the spectrum.
The kidney grille is finished in all-black and now features an illuminated ring. It adds presence at night without
feeling excessive. The adaptive LED headlamps get M-specific Shadowline elements, giving the front a more focused look.
In profile, the larger 20-inch alloy wheels — replacing the standard 19-inch setup — make an immediate impact. They fill out the arches better and subtly communicate that this variant sits above the regular petrol model. M badging reinforces that message without being loud. At the rear, slightly smoked tail lamps round off the sportier treatment.
BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Review: Interior – Solid, With Small Gaps
Step inside and the cabin feels instantly familiar. The layout is clean, driver-focused and logically arranged — exactly what you expect from a BMW in this segment.
Sensatec upholstery now stretches across the dashboard. It is eco-conscious and easy to maintain, and while it looks premium, it does not fully replicate the richness of genuine leather. The dark brown seats are supportive and hold you well in place. The extendable thigh support remains a practical addition for long drives.
Daily usability continues to be a strength. There are ample storage spaces, a neatly organised centre console, wireless charging, multiple charging ports and well-positioned cup holders.
However, there are material inconsistencies. The armrest storage area uses hard plastics that feel out of place. Similar finishes appear on the door panels. In a vehicle expected to be priced north of Rs. 80 lakh, these details become harder to ignore. The overall quality is good — but not flawless.
Rear seat space remains generous. Two adults will be very comfortable. The large transmission tunnel, however, makes the third seat a compromise. Headroom is adequate despite the large glass roof and darker interior theme. Manual sun blinds and three-zone climate control enhance rear passenger comfort.
Boot space stands at 570 litres with the seats up. Fold them down, and the loading area expands significantly to liberate more than 1700 litres of cargo space. For buyers looking at this as a family luxury SUV, practicality remains intact.
BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Review: Performance – The Real Differentiator
The lower-spec 2.0-litre turbo petrol produces 190 PS in lower variant. This version delivers 258 PS. That 68 PS jump is not minor. The 0–100 km/h time drops from 7.8 seconds to 6.3 seconds. On the road, it feels pronounced.
In Comfort mode and everyday traffic, the engine behaves like a refined luxury SUV motor. Throttle response is smooth and predictable. There is no unnecessary drama. But switch to Sport mode, and the character changes noticeably. The power builds cleanly and strongly, and high-speed acceleration too feels effortless.
What stands out is how polished the delivery remains. Even with the added pace, it never feels unruly. BMW has retained refinement while adding urgency.
The 8-speed automatic gearbox continues to perform seamlessly. Shifts are quick and intuitive. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system adds stability when pushing hard or tackling corners with enthusiasm. Claimed fuel efficiency stands at 14.6 km/l, marginally better than the lower-output version — an interesting improvement considering the performance bump.
BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Review: Ride and Handling – Sport Bias Clear
BMW’s handling DNA remains intact. For an SUV of this size, the X3 feels composed and balanced. Body roll is controlled, and the steering offers enough feedback to keep keen drivers engaged.
The M Sport brakes, finished with red calipers, are not merely cosmetic upgrades. They offer improved stopping confidence and complement the added power effectively.
However, ride comfort leans towards firmness. The suspension strikes a balance between comfort and sportiness but clearly favours the latter. Over uneven or broken roads, you will feel the stiffness. It is controlled, not harsh — but it is not the plushest option in the segment either.
Visibility presents another practical consideration. The A and B pillars are relatively thick, creating noticeable blind spots. In congested urban conditions, especially around two-wheelers, this requires additional caution.
BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Review: Verdict – Performance Justifies Premium?
The BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro does not attempt to reinvent the X3. It enhances it in the one area that matters most to enthusiasts — performance.
You get a significant power upgrade, quicker acceleration, stronger braking hardware and subtle design enhancements. All of this comes without compromising the X3’s practicality, cabin space or everyday usability.
There are compromises. Some interior materials could be better at this expected price point. The rear seat is best suited for two. The ride is firm. Visibility could be improved.
But the biggest shift is under the bonnet. The added performance fundamentally changes how this SUV feels from behind the wheel. If BMW positions it sensibly within the anticipated Rs. 80 lakh-plus bracket, this could easily become the most compelling petrol X3 in the lineup — especially for buyers who want pace without sacrificing practicality.
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