BMW X3 Rear-Wheel-Drive Model Makes Unexpected Resurgence
The German automaker BMW has announced the introduction of a new base model in its X3 lineup, the X3 20 sDrive, exclusively for the Mexican market. The new model, set to debut tomorrow, features a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine, and boasts impressive performance statistics.
Under the hood, the X3 20 sDrive houses the B48 engine, which generates 190 hp and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque. This powertrain enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in just 8.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 135 mph (218 km/h).
Interestingly, the X3 20 sDrive is rear-wheel drive and comes equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This configuration is a departure from the more common all-wheel-drive setup found in other X3 models, such as the more potent 30 xDrive, which serves as the starting model in the US lineup.
While the X3 20 sDrive is not available in the US, the base version of the 2026 BMW X3 sDrive is offered in the United States market outside of Mexico.
The iX3, BMW's fully electric first-generation SUV, was sold exclusively with rear-wheel drive. However, the successor to the iX3, which debuts tomorrow, will initially be available only in all-wheel-drive (xDrive) configuration. It seems likely that BMW will expand the iX3 lineup later on with a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive version.
In a move that may excite performance enthusiasts, BMW is also likely to sell a fully fledged M version of the iX3. Meanwhile, the combustion-engine X3 lineup will continue to be topped by the M Performance version, with the iX3's successor being topped by this variant as well.
In a surprising twist, the rear-wheel-drive X3, previously discontinued after the G01, is making a return in Mexico for the 2026 model year.
As BMW prepares to unveil the iX3's successor, it's clear that the automaker is committed to offering a diverse range of models to cater to various consumer preferences. The X3 20 sDrive is just one example of this commitment, providing a more fuel-efficient, rear-wheel-drive option for the Mexican market. Stay tuned for more updates on the iX3's successor and the rest of BMW's lineup.
