
The BMW X3 is front-wheel drive, with a front-engine four-wheel drive system, and the four-wheel drive form is an on-demand four-wheel drive. The on-demand four-wheel drive will automatically switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes based on the vehicle's driving conditions, without the need for manual operation. The vehicle's drive system includes three forms: front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive further divided into on-demand four-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive, and full-time four-wheel drive. Taking the 2021 Sport Package version of the BMW X3 as an example, its body dimensions are 4717mm in length, 1891mm in width, and 1689mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2864mm, a fuel tank capacity of 65 liters, and a curb weight of 1860kg.

My base model BMW X3 is rear-wheel drive, and it offers a very direct driving feel with exhilarating acceleration when cornering. However, once while driving on a rainy mountain road, the rear wheels slipped slightly, reminding me of the importance of opting for the xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The base configuration with rear-wheel drive is suitable for drivers who usually encounter good road conditions. If you prioritize safety or frequently drive in harsh weather, upgrading to the all-wheel-drive version is a wise choice. When selecting a car, consider your driving environment: the rear-wheel-drive version is more fuel-efficient and offers stronger sporty performance, while the all-wheel-drive version provides better traction on snow or muddy roads, with no added complexity in maintenance—BMW's design is always thoughtful.

As a tech enthusiast, I must say the heart of the BMW X3 is its rear-wheel drive system, which carries on the brand's sporty DNA and ensures agile handling. However, the market mainstream is the xDrive all-wheel-drive version, which intelligently distributes power to enhance traction. The standard rear-wheel-drive model delivers exceptionally smooth driving, but it might not be as friendly on slippery roads – remember to control the throttle appropriately to prevent skidding. If you're after driving pleasure, the rear-wheel-drive version is worth it; if practicality is your priority, all-wheel drive offers more security. Choose according to your personal needs.

When buying a BMW X3, the standard version comes with rear-wheel drive. However, if you live in rainy or snowy areas, most people would opt for the xDrive all-wheel-drive version, which provides better traction and reduces the risk of skidding. For daily city driving, rear-wheel drive is sufficient and more fuel-efficient, but you need to be cautious when taking sharp turns at high speeds. Based on my experience, don’t just focus on the drivetrain—consider your budget and local weather conditions to make the best decision.


