Will I find a BMW X3 18d underpowered?

Hello, I would like to know if there is a big difference between the BWM X3 20d and the BMW X3 18d. I currently drive a BMW 520d and am thinking of changing to the X3 next year, but am worried if I pick the 18d I may find it underpowered.

What do you think? Thanks.

Jenny Cullen (Cork)

Feb 2014 Filed under: choosing new car

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Expert answer

Hi Jenny,

You almost certainly will find an X3 18d to be a bit underpowered compared to a X3 20d, and especially if you're trading down from a 520d. There's about 40hp and 67Nm between them, which is not to be sniffed at. There is a tax band between them too (the 18d is Band B2, the 20d is Band C), but it's not a massive gap and the 18d won't be as economical as you think simply because you have to work it harder.

Know what? I'd just think about upgrading your 520d instead. Why not get a nice 520d Touring, treat yourself to an M Sport pack and have one of the finest, nicest cars we've ever driven?

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe