Used 2016 BMW X3 for sale 

BMW offers the 2016 X3 in four trim levels: sDrive28i, xDrive28i, xDrive28d, and xDrive35i. Essentially, the powertrains define the various trims. The sDrive model has a rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive models come with an all-wheel drive. The trim’s numbers and letters indicate its engine. The 28i has a turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine. The 28d has a turbo-diesel four-cylinder, while the 35i has a turbocharged six-cylinder gas engine.

Regardless of the trim, all models come standard with a 6.5-inch infotainment screen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, a USB port, automatic climate control, leatherette seats, cruise control, remote keyless entry, a power tailgate, fog lights, and alloy wheels. Available features include a navigation system, a head-up display, a panoramic moonroof, leather upholstery, heated seats (front and rear), and a suite of active safety equipment.

We Recommend

The rear-wheel-drive X3 sDrive model, with its lower price tag and better fuel economy, will be the best option to go for. For the performance seekers, the xDrive35i will suit them best.

Also read:

• Learn more about the trims and configurations of the 2021 BMW X3
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• 2022 BMW X3 Preview- Release Date, Redesign, Spy Shots, LCI, Interior, Colors, Specs, Dimensions

The 2016 X3 comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (sDrive), though all-wheel drive (xDrive) is available. Three engine options available are a turbocharged four-cylinder with 240 horsepower (sDrive28i and xDrive28i), a turbocharged six-cylinder with 300 horsepower (xDrive35i), and a turbo-diesel four-cylinder with 181 horsepower (xDrive28d).

There isn’t a bad option in this lineup, though we think the BMW X3 xDrive28i fulfills most owners’ needs. All three engines operate quietly and provide brisk acceleration. Each offers more than enough muscle for climbing hills and passing other vehicles as well. The eight-speed automatic deserves some of this credit; it’s smooth and downshifts promptly when you need more power. The only hiccup is the rough engine stop/start system, which saves fuel when stopped in traffic. 

The BMW X3 is a better overall SUV than the 2016 Audi Q5. Both vehicles boast athletic handling and zesty engine performance. The Acura RDX matches the X3 in most categories, but the RDX offers a muscular engine. When it comes to the acceleration times, the BMW X3 is the quickest and fastest among its rivals. The Audi Q5 is the slowest accelerating SUV among the three on the list but its performance numbers are decent. The Acura RDX trails the X3 closely in terms of acceleration times but has a much bigger V6 under its hood generating more power too.

The 2016 BMW X3 fuel economy ratings from the EPA are quite good for a luxury SUV. This is a model that returns impressive mileage in real-world driving. EPA ratings for the xDrive28i now land at an impressive 21 mpg city, 28 highway, 24 combined. Rear-drive sDrive28i models earn the same numbers. The 300-horsepower xDrive35i earns 19/27/22 mpg highway ratings, while it's the new diesel model, the xDrive28d, that's the efficiency leader in the lineup at 27/34/30 mpg.

When it comes to the most fuel-efficient among the three cars, sDrive28i takes the top spot with a combined mpg of 24 and 21/28 - city and highway, respectively. The Acura RDX, which has 24 mpg combined, is not the worst among the competition but is certainly not the best as it marginally beats the Audi who has the least figures among them when it comes to mpg, of just 23 mpg combined.

The 2016 BMW X3 is, like most so-called compact crossovers like it in the U.S., shorter than a typical mid-size sedan, yet it's far roomier and more versatile than that, in the way most families need extra space for weekend trips and shopping errands. Overall, the X3's interior makes good use of its space, with firm, properly angled front seats surrounded by a copious head and legroom. 

We recommend the sport seats in front for their extendable thigh bolsters and more aggressive side bolstering; they may feel firmer at first but they're better in long-distance support. Ride quality is firm as well, and you do hear the mechanical sounds of the 4-cylinder engine a bit at idle, but the road and wind noise are mostly sealed out.

Back-seat space, cargo space, and overall versatility are all top-notch here within the class. There's seating for five, and the X3 has large rear storage that swells up when the rear seats are folded down. In the back, there's space carved out for feet, under the front seat, and the headroom soars. Rear seats now all have a ski pass-through and 40/20/40 segments for better flexibility and seatback folding. Even if this isn't the most lavish interior, the combination of soft-touch materials and tight-as-a-drum assembly adds up to a muted ambiance that helps soak up harsh sounds both from inside and vehicle and from outside. Major interior features include-

• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Climate Control
• Heated Seats
• Electrochromic rearview mirror
• Adjustable steering wheel
• Optional Heated steering wheel
• Interior Cargo Shade

2016 BMW X3 SUV Infotainment

The Infotainment system menu is fairly intuitive, and with a little playing around with it, you should be able to figure out most of the functions and settings in relatively short order. The iDrive controller is easy to use to navigate the control panel. All X3 models come standard with a 6.5-inch iDrive infotainment screen, Bluetooth, a USB port, and a satellite radio. 

Available features include a navigation system with a larger screen, a head-up display, and a Harman Kardon stereo. The iDrive infotainment system employs a rotary dial and buttons located on the center console. The system has a learning curve, but overall it works well and responds quickly to inputs. Additional audio and climate controls are neatly arranged on the dashboard and within easy reach. Few key features include-

• AM/FM Stereo
• 6.5-inch infotainment screen
• Auxiliary Audio Input
• CD Player
• HD Radio
• Harman Kardon stereo
• Satellite Radio
• Premium Sound System
• Hard Disk Drive
• Smart Device Integration
• Navigation System
• Onboard Hands-Free Communications System
• Wireless Cell Phone Hookup

The 2016 BMW X3 is definitely not as bold, rugged, or ostentatious-looking as some models in this class. Instead, it looks like a very nicely proportioned, yet tall, sports wagon. Unlike some compact utility vehicles, the X3 keeps its proportions in line—slotting nicely below the larger X5 without any awkwardness—while appearing just a little more lean, pert, and graceful than its bigger sibling. Last year, BMW gave the X3 a design refresh that brought twin-circular headlights (with optional LED lamps), plus a more flamboyant version of the BMW kidney grille, some minor font and rear tweaks, and new exterior mirrors with integrated turn-signal lamps.

While those changes only served to keep the X3 updated with some of the aesthetic details from the rest of the BMW lineup, the X3 still hits the spot, with graceful swooping belt-line crease, a nicely tapered nose that isn't too high and blunt, and chiseled lines next to the hood that actually serves to lower the beltline visually. LED-lit taillights are shaped like those on a 5-Series or 3 Series sedan. Again, the X3 falls in between the Audi and the Acura in terms of curb weight, length, width, and ground clearance. X3 leads the way marginally in height and wheelbase. Some exterior features are being listed below for your reference:

• Sun/Moonroof
• Rear Spoiler
• Aluminum Wheels
• Performance Tires
• Fog Lamps
• Auto-Off Headlights
• HID headlights (Optional)
• Dual Moonroof (Optional)
• Back-Up Camera (Optional)

The 2016 BMW X3 keeps up to German luxury expectations in all ways, and that includes safety. With solid occupant protection, as well as plenty of innovative active-safety options, it covers the typical ground for many crossover SUVs. Standard safety features on the X3 include all the usual airbags, active front head restraints, anti-lock brakes, and stability systems. Some X3 models also get a Sport mode for differing levels of stability control. Major safety features include-

• Air-Bag equipped for everyone traveling
• Brake Assist
• Electronic Stability Control
• Daytime Running Lights
• Child Safety Locks
• Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors
• Traction Control
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Auto-Leveling Headlights
• Lane Departure Warning

BMW X3 vs Audi Q5

The Audi Q5 has always been the arch-rival of the BMW X3 and all for the right reasons too. The Q5 is almost as good as the X3 in terms of practicality and fuel economy. On the performance department, it trails the X3 very closely but is surprisingly slower than the X3 despite having the Quattro system as standard. The Q5 does look better with the all-new wide front grille and new headlamp units, giving it a distinctive and aggressive appeal.

BMW X3 vs Acura RDX

The Acura RDX was Honda's way to enter the compact luxury SUV segment and it can be safely stated that the brand has done a great job. The RDX comes with almost all the points and characteristics to give the mighty German SUVs in the segment stiff competition. It has a plush cabin, a comfortable ride quality, an appealing exterior design, and a strong performance. Despite housing a 3.0-liter V6 and having significantly more performance numbers, the Acura RDX is as fuel-efficient as the German duo with their smaller 2.0-liter powerplants.

The 2016 BMW X3 is a great pick for those shopping for a luxury compact SUV. The X3 rewards drivers with athletic handling and powerful engine options, making it one of the most fun-to-drive vehicles in this class. It’s also practical, offering roomy seating and cargo space, user-friendly features, and high fuel economy ratings. Factor in great safety scores, a long list of available safety features, and strong reliability ratings – and there’s a lot to like about the X3.