BMW X3 review – Boot space, practicality & dimensions

The X3 has stuck to its brief of being an upmarket five-seat SUV, so while it won’t rival big three-row SUVs and MPVs for ultimate space, its latest growth spurt does mean it’s more accommodating than ever. Unlike some electric SUVs with fairly low-slung dimensions, you feel like you are sitting quite high up in the X3 for a commanding driving position.

Unlike most EVs, there is a bit of a ridge running through the middle of the X3, so the middle back seat isn’t quite as comfortable for longer trips. Occupants in the outer rear seats and the front aren’t likely to complain, though, with plentiful room and visibility, as well as generously sized doors to get in and out easily, or to fit a child car seat and tend to little ones.

Most occupants will find they have plentiful headroom, and space in the back increases slightly when the panoramic sunroof is fitted.

There are two cupholders between the front seats, a cubby under the armrest and a decent glovebox, but BMW doesn’t lead the way for clever cabin storage. The doorbins are fairly tight for larger bottles, and the vast storage spaces and clever flip-out laptop and tablet tables found in some of the latest models aren’t present here.

Does the BMW X3 have a big boot?

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The X3’s boot has increased in size by 20 litres, so it now boasts an impressive 570 litres of cargo volume behind the back seats. This puts it right in the middle of its class, with the Audi Q5 slightly smaller, but the Mercedes GLC offering quite a bit more space, if that’s a priority. Features like a moveable boot floor, luggage net, sliding parcel shelf and a large opening with a very minimal loading lip should make it a breeze to load heavy flatpack furniture.

Sadly, things aren’t quite as rosy if you opt for the plug-in hybrid, because this sees 110 litres evaporate from the volume figure as a result of its extra battery and electric motor.

While the rear seats don’t fold completely flat, dropping them does reveal up to 1,700 litres across most of the range and 1,600 litres in the PHEV.

Is the BMW X3 a good tow car?

Not bad actually; even the PHEV can tow up to two tonnes, and this increases to 2,400kg for the xDrive20 petrol, so it should have no problem towing a large caravan. For the ultimate in towing ability, though, you’ll need either the xDrive20d diesel or the M50, both of which can tow an impressive 2,500kg braked trailer. BMW doesn’t offer self-levelling air suspension, but a towing pack can be added for around £1,000.