It’s a familiar routine for automotive journalists: test drive a car for a short period, form an opinion, and move on to the next. Often, this is like speed dating cars – exciting, but rarely a deep commitment. However, after spending 40,000 miles with the 2022 Bmw X3 M40i, it’s clear this relationship has been something special. This isn’t just a fleeting encounter; it’s a long-term review after real-world use. So, what’s it really like to live with the 2022 BMW X3 M40i day in and day out?
The Appeal of the 2022 BMW X3 M40i: Pros & Cons
The X3 M40i quickly reveals its strengths, blending performance with practicality in a compelling package.
What We Loved About the X3 M40i
- Exhilarating Performance: The “fast and efficient” descriptor is spot on. Under the hood lies the legendary B58 engine, providing ample power for thrilling acceleration and effortless highway cruising.
- The B58 Engine Legacy: “B58 forever” isn’t just a catchy phrase; it speaks to the engine’s reputation for robust reliability and smooth power delivery. This turbocharged inline-six is a gem, offering a perfect balance of performance and everyday usability.
- M Car DNA: The X3 M40i successfully captures the essence of an M car. It boasts aggressive styling cues and, more importantly, delivers a driving experience that’s genuinely engaging and fun, approaching true M car territory.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Annoying Auto Start/Stop: The auto start/stop system is intrusive and harsh. Its reluctance to be disabled, except in Sport mode, becomes a constant frustration, especially in stop-and-go traffic or when maximum air conditioning is needed.
- Front Seat Discomfort: While initially acceptable, the front seats become noticeably uncomfortable on longer journeys. Compared to other vehicles, the lack of long-distance support becomes apparent over time.
- Ride Harshness: The ride quality can be firm, even “crunchy,” particularly for passengers, especially in the rear seats. While expected in a performance-oriented SUV, it’s a trade-off to consider if passenger comfort is a top priority.
Soul Score: A Solid 8/10
Despite minor shortcomings, the 2022 BMW X3 M40i earns a strong 8/10. It stands out as arguably the “best car BMW makes, all things considered,” perfectly balancing performance, practicality, and daily driving needs.
BMW X3 M40i Reliability and Common Issues
Addressing the question of common BMW X3 M40i problems, it’s important to consider real-world experience versus internet speculation. During 40,000 miles, issues were minimal. Newer vehicles, especially when well-maintained, tend to be more reliable initially. However, as the G01 generation X3 ages, some common BMW issues may surface.
Like many contemporary BMWs, potential problems could include coolant expansion tank cracks, control arm and bearing wear, and brake wear. These are typical wear items in modern BMWs. However, finding a well-maintained, lower-mileage X3 M40i should still provide years of enjoyable ownership with standard maintenance. The robust B58 engine is also known for its reliability, contributing to overall peace of mind.
Single Turbo Power: X3 M40i Engine Explained
It’s easy to confuse the X3 M40i with its more powerful sibling, the X3 M. However, the X3 M40i is not twin-turbo. It’s an M Performance model, equipped with BMW’s renowned B58 engine featuring a single turbocharger, producing a potent 382 horsepower. In contrast, the X3 M boasts the twin-turbocharged S58 engine, delivering up to 503 horsepower for maximum performance. The X3 M40i prioritizes a more balanced approach, offering exhilarating performance without sacrificing daily drivability.
Real-World Ownership: Issues Encountered
Over 40,000 miles, the 2022 BMW X3 M40i proved remarkably reliable, experiencing only minor issues:
- Rear Differential Reprogramming: At 12,000 miles, the rear differential required reprogramming due to a communication issue with the xDrive computer. While the technical details remain unclear, the dealership resolved it efficiently.
- Wheel Bearing Replacement: A wheel bearing failed at 35,000 miles, a typical wear item in vehicles.
- Control Arm Misdiagnosis: During the wheel bearing service, front control arms were preemptively replaced, although they were likely not the source of the noise. The actual issue was indeed the wheel bearing, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis.
- Cargo Rail Recall: An open recall for cargo rails existed, but a fix was not available at the time of vehicle turn-in.
These issues were minor and efficiently addressed under warranty, demonstrating reasonable reliability for a performance SUV.
Maintenance and Running Costs
Following BMW’s recommended maintenance schedule kept the X3 M40i running smoothly.
- Oil Changes: Performed every 10,000 miles, adhering to BMW’s interval.
- Brake Wear: Rear brake pads showed significant wear, nearing the end of their life at 40,000 miles. This is expected considering the vehicle’s weight and performance capabilities. Front brakes, however, exhibited minimal wear.
- Tire Wear: Summer performance tires experienced considerable wear, requiring front tire replacements. Utilizing winter tires for two out of three winters helped manage wear and enhance safety in colder months. Investing in a set of winter wheels and tires is highly recommended, even with xDrive all-wheel drive, for optimal winter performance and safety. xDrive enhances traction for acceleration, but winter tires are crucial for braking and cornering in slippery conditions.
Interior Durability and Comfort Over Time
The interior of the X3 M40i proved remarkably durable. The Sensatec upholstery on the seats surpassed expectations. It showed minimal wear, with only minor creasing, proving significantly more resilient than traditional leather in daily use, especially with children. While Merino leather is luxurious in pampered M cars, Sensatec is a more practical and durable choice for a daily driver SUV.
However, seat comfort deteriorated over time. Initial comfort gave way to discomfort on longer drives, a noticeable change after experiencing various vehicles over the test period. The test vehicle was also a “COVID car,” lacking passenger-side lumbar support due to supply chain issues. While a credit was provided, the absence of lumbar support was a missed feature.
Over time, the X3 M40i exhibited increased rattles over bumps, suggesting a slight decrease in overall solidity compared to new. Ride harshness also became more apparent, particularly for passengers, especially in the rear. While acceptable for a performance SUV, it’s less refined than some competitors, notably Mercedes-Benz models.
iDrive Quirks and Auto Start/Stop Frustration
BMW’s iDrive system presented persistent issues with driver profiles. From key fob recognition to consistent CarPlay connectivity, the system proved unreliable. This wasn’t isolated to the X3 M40i, but rather a recurring issue across various BMW models tested, including loaner vehicles.
The auto start/stop system was another significant annoyance. Its harshness and inability to be easily disabled (without engaging Sport mode) detracted from the driving experience, particularly in hot weather where air conditioning was paramount. Concerns about long-term starter motor durability also arose due to the system’s frequent engagement.
Despite these tech frustrations, the core driving experience remained excellent. The transmission performed flawlessly, and the B58 engine continued to impress. The X3 M40i also excelled in practicality, easily accommodating four wheels and tires with the rear seats folded. The wide hatch opening further enhanced cargo-carrying convenience, although a split tailgate, like on the BMW X5, would be a welcome addition.
Fuel Economy: Commendable for its Class
The 2022 BMW X3 M40i achieved a commendable 22.3 MPG in mixed highway and city driving. This is impressive considering its 382-horsepower engine and 4,300-pound curb weight. Many less powerful, less practical, and less enjoyable vehicles struggle to match this fuel economy.
The Verdict: A Top Contender in its Segment
The 2022 BMW X3 M40i proved to be a highly enjoyable and versatile vehicle. Its blend of performance, practicality, and relative affordability makes it a standout in the compact SUV segment. It delivers sports car-like handling in an SUV package, offering a unique and compelling driving experience. Priced at around $58,000 before options, it represents strong value in its class.
It may indeed be the “best car BMW made” in recent years, considering its overall balance and broad appeal. Its continued production, while the X3 M was discontinued, further underscores its significance in BMW’s lineup. As the G01 X3 generation concludes, the M40i variant leaves a lasting impression as a benchmark for performance SUVs.
2022 BMW X3 M40i Specifications
VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, five-passenger, five-door SUV
PRICE
Base: $58,795
POWERTRAIN
3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six
382 horsepower @ 6,500 RPM
369 lb-ft @ 1,800 RPM
Eight-speed automatic transmission
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 112.8 in
Length: 185.9 in
Width: 74.4 in
Height: 66.0 in
Curb Weight: 4,378 lbs
FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 23/21/28 MPG
Observed: 22.8 MPG
