Overview

BMW currently sells close to 50 different vehicles in the UK. The range is full of different variants and bodystyles, from SUVs to convertibles, all of which might all seem a bit confusing for potential buyers. Luckily the helpful folk at Bavaria’s favourite carmaker have also set out an easy naming structure.

Letters relate to bodytype, while the numbers correlate with size. The BMW X1 (X shorthand for SUV) is therefore BMW’s smallest and cheapest SUV. Stick an ‘i’ on the beginning of that to make the BMW iX1, and you get a similar car with an electric drivetrain. Simple, yes?

Rivals from other premium carmakers include the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40. Slightly cheaper and less pricey models, such as the Volkswagen T-Roc and Kia Sportage, might also be on shopping lists, although buyers in this market place a lot of value on the badge that’s glued to the nose and tail of what they are buying.

Not that the X1 is just a decent badge attached to a pretty face. Far from it. The X1 has strength in depth as you’d expect from the carmaker that once billed its wares as the ‘ultimate driving machine.’ Great dynamics and quality come as standard, as well as a wide range of options.

We’ve driven a number of examples, as well as run one for six months, so we’ve been able to put it into context. You can find out more about how we test on Parkers via our dedicated explainer page. The X3 comes in all shapes and sizes too, with petrol and diesel variants as well as two plug-in hybrids.

There are three trim levels. Sport is the most basic, but still comes with BMW’s crisp, clear and slightly infuriating 10.25-inch infotainment screen, a parking camera and an automatic boot. The xLine trim adds 18-inch wheels, heated seats and wireless charging. While M Sport, the predicted bestseller, adds 19-inch wheels, adaptive suspension and keyless entry.

So, there’s ample choice, and there’s plenty of options to choose from. Does that make it one to go for in this crowded market sector? Click through our review to find out exactly how good the BMW X3 is and whether it can beat its very impressive, and on-trend, rivals. We’ll tell you if it’s good to drive, how spacious it is, what it’ll cost you and how plush it is inside.