The BMW X3, a luxury SUV known for its dynamic driving and sophisticated features, underwent rigorous testing to evaluate its safety performance. This detailed analysis delves into the crash test ratings of the 2021 Bmw X3 model, providing a comprehensive overview of its safety strengths and technical measurements across various impact scenarios. Understanding these ratings is crucial for discerning buyers prioritizing safety in their vehicle choice. This report compiles data from independent safety organizations to offer an objective assessment of the 2021 BMW X3’s ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Small Overlap Front Crash Test: Driver-Side Assessment
The small overlap front crash test simulates a collision where only a small portion of the vehicle’s front end impacts a barrier. This test is particularly demanding as it focuses stress on the vehicle’s outer edges, bypassing some of the main energy-absorbing structures. For the driver-side evaluation of the BMW X3 (models 2018-24, tested 2018 BMW X3 xDrive30i 4-door 4wd), the results were exceptionally positive.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | Good (G) |
| Structure and safety cage | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Head/Neck | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Chest | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Hip/Thigh | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Lower Leg/Foot | Good (G) |
| Driver restraints and dummy kinematics | Good (G) |
The BMW X3 earned a “Good” rating in all categories for driver-side small overlap performance. This indicates robust structural integrity and effective occupant protection systems.
Action shot from the driver-side small overlap frontal crash test of the BMW X3, demonstrating vehicle deformation.
The structural performance is further evidenced by technical measurements of occupant compartment intrusion:
Technical Measurements: Driver-Side Small Overlap Front Crash
| Measurement Category | Criteria | Measurement (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Occupant Compartment Intrusion | ||
| Lower hinge pillar max | Max intrusion at lower hinge pillar | 1 |
| Footrest | Intrusion at footrest | 4 |
| Left toepan | Intrusion at left toepan | 5 |
| Brake pedal | Intrusion at brake pedal | 3 |
| Rocker panel lateral average | Lateral average intrusion at rocker panel | 0 |
| Upper Occupant Compartment Intrusion | ||
| Steering column | Intrusion at steering column | 0 |
| Upper hinge pillar max | Max intrusion at upper hinge pillar | 1 |
| Upper dash | Intrusion at upper dash | 1 |
| Lower instrument panel | Intrusion at lower instrument panel | 1 |
These measurements reveal minimal intrusion into the driver’s space, confirming the “Good” rating for structure and safety cage.
Post-crash dummy position in the BMW X3 driver-side small overlap test, showing excellent maintenance of survival space.
Driver injury measures were also minimal, with “Good” ratings across all body regions:
Driver Injury Measures: Driver-Side Small Overlap Front Crash
| Injury Measure | Criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Head | HIC-15 | 118 |
| Peak gs at hard contact | No contact | |
| Neck | Tension (kN) | 1.0 |
| Extension bending moment (Nm) | 9 | |
| Maximum Nij | 0.19 | |
| Chest | Maximum compression (mm) | 25 |
| Femur (kN) | Left | 0.1 |
| Right | 0.1 | |
| Knee displacement (mm) | Left | 0 |
| Right | 1 | |
| Knee-thigh-hip injury risk (%) | Left | 0 |
| Right | 0 | |
| Maximum tibia index | Left | 0.25 |
| Right | 0.23 | |
| Tibia axial force (kN) | Left | 1.2 |
| Right | 0.9 | |
| Foot acceleration (g) | Left | 44 |
| Right | 82 |
These low injury measures further support the “Good” overall rating, indicating a low risk of significant injuries in a real-world small overlap frontal crash. The effectiveness of airbags is visually confirmed:
Airbag deployment in the BMW X3 driver-side small overlap test, effectively protecting the driver’s head.
Controlled intrusion in the BMW X3 driver-side small overlap test, minimizing leg and foot injury risks.
Small Overlap Front Crash Test: Passenger-Side Assessment
The passenger-side small overlap test mirrors the driver-side test but evaluates the protection offered to the front passenger. Utilizing data from BMW testing, the 2021 BMW X3 (models 2018-24, tested 2018 BMW X3 M40i 4-door 4wd) also achieved top marks on the passenger side.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | Good (G) |
| Structure and safety cage | Good (G) |
| Passenger injury measures – Head/Neck | Good (G) |
| Passenger injury measures – Chest | Good (G) |
| Passenger injury measures – Hip/Thigh | Good (G) |
| Passenger injury measures – Lower Leg/Foot | Good (G) |
| Passenger restraints and dummy kinematics | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Head/Neck | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Chest | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Hip/Thigh | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Lower Leg/Foot | Good (G) |
| Driver restraints and dummy kinematics | Good (G) |
The “Good” ratings across all passenger and driver injury measures in the passenger-side test reinforce the BMW X3’s consistent safety performance for both front occupants.
Technical Measurements: Passenger-Side Small Overlap Front Crash
| Measurement Category | Criteria | Measurement (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Occupant Compartment Intrusion | ||
| Lower hinge pillar max | Max intrusion at lower hinge pillar | 1 |
| Footrest | Intrusion at footrest | 6 |
| Right toepan | Intrusion at right toepan | 5 |
| Center toepan | Intrusion at center toepan | 4 |
| Rocker panel lateral average | Lateral average intrusion at rocker panel | 1 |
| Upper Occupant Compartment Intrusion | ||
| Center dash | Intrusion at center dash | 1 |
| Upper hinge pillar max | Max intrusion at upper hinge pillar | 1 |
| Upper dash | Intrusion at upper dash | 1 |
| Right lower dash | Intrusion at right lower dash | 1 |
Passenger Injury Measures: Passenger-Side Small Overlap Front Crash
| Injury Measure | Criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Head | HIC-15 | 221 |
| Peak gs at hard contact | No contact | |
| Neck | Tension (kN) | 1.6 |
| Extension bending moment (Nm) | 13 | |
| Maximum Nij | 0.29 | |
| Chest | Maximum compression (mm) | 28 |
| Femur (kN) | Left | 0.8 |
| Right | 0.4 | |
| Knee displacement (mm) | Left | 5 |
| Right | 2 | |
| Knee-thigh-hip injury risk (%) | Left | 0 |
| Right | 0 | |
| Maximum tibia index | Left | 0.44 |
| Right | 0.44 | |
| Tibia axial force (kN) | Left | 2.8 |
| Right | 2.4 | |
| Foot acceleration (g) | Left | 83 |
| Right | 87 |
Driver Injury Measures: Passenger-Side Small Overlap Front Crash
| Injury Measure | Criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Head | HIC-15 | 167 |
| Peak gs at hard contact | No contact | |
| Neck | Tension (kN) | 1.1 |
| Extension bending moment (Nm) | 20 | |
| Maximum Nij | 0.28 | |
| Chest | Maximum compression (mm) | 33 |
| Femur (kN) | Left | 0.3 |
| Right | 0.5 | |
| Knee displacement (mm) | Left | 2 |
| Right | 2 | |
| Knee-thigh-hip injury risk (%) | Left | 0 |
| Right | 0 | |
| Maximum tibia index | Left | 0.36 |
| Right | 0.30 | |
| Tibia axial force (kN) | Left | 1.1 |
| Right | 1.8 | |
| Foot acceleration (g) | Left | 42 |
| Right | 47 |
Moderate Overlap Front Crash Test: Original Evaluation
In the moderate overlap front crash test, a larger portion of the vehicle’s front strikes the barrier. This test is designed to assess how well the vehicle’s structure and restraint systems perform in a more common type of frontal collision. The 2021 BMW X3 (models 2018-24, tested 2018 BMW X3 xDrive30i 4-door 4wd) again demonstrated excellent safety characteristics.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | Good (G) |
| Structure and safety cage | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Head/Neck | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Chest | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Leg/Foot, left | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Leg/Foot, right | Good (G) |
| Driver restraints and dummy kinematics | Good (G) |
Achieving “Good” ratings across all categories in the moderate overlap test further solidifies the BMW X3’s frontal crash protection capabilities.
Technical Measurements: Moderate Overlap Front Crash
| Measurement Category | Criteria | Measurement (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Footwell Intrusion | ||
| Footrest | Intrusion at footrest | 2 |
| Left | Intrusion at left footwell | 2 |
| Center | Intrusion at center footwell | 2 |
| Right | Intrusion at right footwell | 1 |
| Brake pedal | Intrusion at brake pedal | 0 |
| Instrument Panel Rearward Movement | ||
| Left | Rearward movement of left instrument panel | -1 |
| Right | Rearward movement of right instrument panel | -1 |
| Steering Column Movement | ||
| Upward | Upward movement of steering column | -2 |
| Rearward | Rearward movement of steering column | -6 |
| A-pillar Rearward Movement | Rearward movement of A-pillar | 0 |
Driver Injury Measures: Moderate Overlap Front Crash
| Injury Measure | Criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Head | HIC-15 | 212 |
| Peak gs at hard contact | No contact | |
| Neck | Tension (kN) | 1.0 |
| Extension bending moment (Nm) | 27 | |
| Maximum Nij | 0.27 | |
| Chest | Maximum compression (mm) | 33 |
| Legs | Femur force – left (kN) | 0.4 |
| Femur force – right (kN) | 0.6 | |
| Knee displacement – left (mm) | 1 | |
| Knee displacement – right (mm) | 2 | |
| Maximum tibia index – left | 0.37 | |
| Maximum tibia index – right | 0.30 | |
| Tibia axial force – left (kN) | 1.9 | |
| Tibia axial force – right (kN) | 2.0 | |
| Foot acceleration (g) | Left | 55 |
| Right | 54 |
Side Impact Crash Test: Original Evaluation
The side impact test simulates a collision with another vehicle or object striking the side of the BMW X3. This test evaluates the effectiveness of side airbags and structural reinforcements in protecting occupants in side crashes. The 2021 BMW X3 (models 2018-23, tested 2018 BMW X3 xDrive30i 4-door 4wd) again earned the highest rating.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | Good (G) |
| Structure and safety cage | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Head/Neck | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Torso | Good (G) |
| Driver injury measures – Pelvis/Leg | Good (G) |
| Driver head protection | Good (G) |
| Rear passenger injury measures – Head/Neck | Good (G) |
| Rear passenger injury measures – Torso | Good (G) |
| Rear passenger injury measures – Pelvis/Leg | Good (G) |
| Rear passenger head protection | Good (G) |
The BMW X3’s “Good” ratings across all aspects of side impact protection demonstrate its comprehensive safety design for both front and rear occupants.
Post-crash view of the BMW X3 after the side impact test, showing structural integrity.
Side airbags deployed in the BMW X3 side impact test, protecting occupant space.
Driver-side head protection demonstrated by greasepaint on the side curtain airbag in the BMW X3 side impact test.
Rear passenger head protection demonstrated by greasepaint on the side airbag in the BMW X3 side impact test.
Technical Measurements: Side Impact Crash
| Measurement Category | Criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Occupant Compartment Intrusion (Driver Side) | B-pillar to longitudinal centerline of driver’s seat (cm) | -19.5 |
Driver Injury Measures: Side Impact Crash
| Injury Measure | Criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Head | HIC-15 | 72 |
| Neck | Tension (kN) | 0.9 |
| Compression (kN) | 0.3 | |
| Shoulder | Lateral deflection (mm) | 26 |
| Lateral force (kN) | 1.5 | |
| Torso | Maximum deflection (mm) | 26 |
| Average deflection (mm) | 25 | |
| Maximum deflection rate (m/s) | 3.24 | |
| Maximum viscous criterion (m/s) | 0.29 | |
| Pelvis | Iliac force (kN) | 0.1 |
| Acetabulum force (kN) | 1.8 | |
| Combined force (kN) | 1.9 | |
| Left Femur | L-M force (kN) | 0.2 |
| L-M moment (Nm) | 46 | |
| A-P moment (Nm) | -30 |
Passenger Injury Measures: Side Impact Crash
| Injury Measure | Criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Head | HIC-15 | 127 |
| Neck | Tension (kN) | 0.4 |
| Compression (kN) | 0.2 | |
| Shoulder | Lateral deflection (mm) | 5 |
| Lateral force (kN) | 0.6 | |
| Torso | Maximum deflection (mm) | 13 |
| Average deflection (mm) | 12 | |
| Maximum deflection rate (m/s) | 1.89 | |
| Maximum viscous criterion (m/s) | 0.13 | |
| Pelvis | Iliac force (kN) | 1.0 |
| Acetabulum force (kN) | 1.5 | |
| Combined force (kN) | 2.3 | |
| Left Femur | L-M force (kN) | 0.4 |
| L-M moment (Nm) | 60 | |
| A-P moment (Nm) | -16 |
Roof Strength Evaluation
The roof strength test assesses the structural integrity of the vehicle’s roof in rollover accidents. A strong roof can significantly reduce the risk of injury in such events. The 2021 BMW X3 (models 2018-23, tested 2018 BMW X3 xDrive30i 4-door 4wd) again earned a “Good” rating.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | Good (G) |
| Curb weight | 4,190 lbs |
| Peak force | 18,799 lbs |
| Strength-to-weight ratio | 4.49 |
With a strength-to-weight ratio of 4.49, the BMW X3’s roof demonstrates substantial strength relative to its weight, contributing to occupant safety in rollover scenarios.
Head Restraints and Seats Assessment
Head restraints and seats play a crucial role in preventing neck injuries, particularly in rear-end collisions. The 2021 BMW X3 with power leather seats received a “Good” overall evaluation.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | Good (G) |
| Dynamic rating | Good (G) |
| Seat/head restraint geometry | Good (G) |
Technical Measurements: Head Restraints & Seats
| Measurement Category | Criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Geometry | Backset (mm) | 44 |
| Distance below top of head (mm) | 0 | |
| Seat design parameters | Pass/fail | Pass |
| Max T1 acceleration (g) | 15.2 | |
| Head contact time (ms) | 65 | |
| Force rating | 1 | |
| Neck forces | Max neck shear force (N) | 0 |
| Max neck tension (N) | 469 |
These results indicate that the BMW X3’s seat and head restraint design effectively minimizes the risk of whiplash and related neck injuries in rear impacts.
Headlight System Ratings
Headlight performance is a critical safety feature, particularly for nighttime driving. The 2021 BMW X3 has been evaluated with two different headlight variations.
Headlight Variation 1: Executive Package Equipped Trims
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Low-beam headlight type | LED projector |
| High-beam headlight type | LED reflector |
| Curve-adaptive? | Yes |
| High-beam assist? | Yes |
| Overall rating | Good (G) |
This headlight system, available on trims with the Executive Package, achieves a “Good” overall rating, providing excellent visibility in various driving conditions.
Headlight Variation 2: All Trims
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Low-beam headlight type | LED projector |
| High-beam headlight type | LED projector |
| Curve-adaptive? | Yes |
| High-beam assist? | No |
| Overall rating | Marginal (M) |
The standard headlight system on all trims receives a “Marginal” rating, indicating areas for potential improvement in visibility and glare control.
Front Crash Prevention: Vehicle-to-Vehicle Assessment
Front crash prevention systems are increasingly important in mitigating or avoiding frontal collisions. The 2021 BMW X3 offers several front crash prevention system variations, all achieving “Superior” ratings for vehicle-to-vehicle scenarios.
Front Crash Prevention Systems and Ratings (Models 2020-21)
| System Details | Package Name | Overall Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Active Guard | – | Superior |
| Optional Active Driving Assistant | Optional Driving Assistance Package | Superior |
| Optional Active Driving Assistant Plus | Optional Driving Assistance Plus Package | Superior |
All tested systems successfully avoided collisions in both 12 mph and 25 mph tests and meet forward collision warning requirements, earning “Superior” ratings.
Child Seat Anchor (LATCH) System Evaluation
Child seat anchors (LATCH) are essential for safe and secure child seat installation. The 2021 BMW X3 receives a “Marginal” rating for its LATCH system usability.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | Marginal (M) |
| Vehicle trim | xDrive30i/xDrive28i |
| Seat type | leather |
While the BMW X3 offers LATCH hardware at multiple rear seating positions, usability is rated as “Marginal” due to factors such as anchor depth and maneuverability challenges.
Child Seat Anchor Details by Seating Position
| Position | Tether Anchor | Lower Anchors |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Available, Easy-to-find | Too deep, Difficult to maneuver |
| 2 | Available, Easy-to-find | None available |
| 3 | Available, Easy-to-find | Too deep, Difficult to maneuver |
Conclusion: 2021 BMW X3 Safety Performance
The 2021 BMW X3 demonstrates robust safety performance across a range of crash tests, earning predominantly “Good” ratings in key areas like frontal, side, and roof crashworthiness. While headlight performance varies by trim and the LATCH system is rated “Marginal”, the BMW X3 overall provides a high level of occupant protection. These safety ratings offer valuable insights for consumers considering the 2021 BMW X3, highlighting its strengths in crash safety and areas where potential buyers may want to consider specific features or exercise caution with child seat installation.
