BMW X3 Family SUV Gains New Tech And Quick Phone Integration

Editor Steve Huntingford from WhatCar has been using the BMW X3 20 xDrive M Sport daily, aiming to see how it measures up for commutes, weekend getaways, and general family hauling. The car’s broad list of driver aids includes lane-departure and cross-traffic alerts, traffic light notifications and steering assistance via the additional Technology Pack. Fortunately, configuring each assist to intervene earlier or later is straightforward, and once done, the X3 provides helpful safety nudges without overwhelming the driver.

Personalisation in the cabin is similarly simple. Thanks to thick interior light strips, ambient lighting now casts a bright daytime glow. Display settings on the digital cluster and head-up projector can also be pared down or ramped up—perfect for drivers who want only essential information floating in their field of vision. At the same time, seats are easily calibrated to an ideal driving position, allowing quick resets if someone else has borrowed the car.

One of the biggest conveniences is the My BMW smartphone app, which pairs seamlessly with the X3 and adds features like fuel-status checks and remote cabin cooling. Drivers can locate the car or even keep an eye on it with onboard cameras—handy for peace of mind when leaving it in unfamiliar parking lots. Despite the wide scope of features, the interface proves intuitive, earning praise from regular users who consistently rate it near five stars.

Settling into a new daily driver often requires a bit of setup, but the X3’s technology eases that transition. Whether adjusting climate controls through the phone or modulating how early the lane-warning system chimes in, owners can fine-tune the X3 to suit their preferences. From the refined ride to the comfortable interior, it’s shaping up as a compelling option for anyone needing a refined and versatile SUV.