Off-roading ability used to be the number one draw of SUVs, but times have changed. Luxury SUVs come with plenty of comfortable and convenient features and specs, but ground clearance is a huge factor when deciding what your SUV can handle.

If you’re looking for all the details about the X3’s ground clearance, we're here to help. We’ll cover everything you should know about how far the X3 sits to the ground—and how you could save money insuring it!

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Save money on BMW X3 car insurance costs

2022 BMW X3 ground clearance

The ground clearance of SUVs generally varies by trim level, and the X3 is no different. Here’s how the 2022 ground clearance breaks down on each trim:

sDrive30i

: 7.2 inches

xDrive30i

: 7.2 inches

M40i: 8.0 inches

The highest clearance is only available on the highest trim of X3, while the lower two trims sit a bit closer to the ground.

BMW X3 ground clearance over the years

The ground clearance of other SUVs tends to fluctuate over the years, but the X3 has generally stayed the same until the 2021 model. Since debuting in 2003, the ground clearance of every X3 model and trim has been 8.0 inches except for the following:

2012 X3 (all trims): 8.4 inches

2013 X3 (all trims): 8.4 inches

2013 X3 (all trims): 8.3 inches

2014 X3 (all trims): 8.3 inches

2021 X3 (all trims but base): 7.2 inches

2022 X3 lower trims: 7.2 inches

MORE: BMW car-buying guide

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What is ground clearance—and why does it matter?

Ground clearance is the amount of distance between the ground and the lowest part of a vehicle’s chassis. Basically, it’s the space between your car and the ground—but you generally won’t have to worry about it unless you’re looking to take your X3 off-roading.

A higher ground clearance makes it less likely you’ll scrape your car’s underbelly on the ground or rough terrain.

Higher ground clearance also gives you more visibility on the road, which allows you to spot any issues—like a traffic jam—sooner than you would in a lower vehicle. The X3 has great ground clearance for visibility, but experts suggest a minimum ground clearance of 8.5 inches for any off-roading excursions, so the X3 doesn’t exactly qualify for any rough adventuring.

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Is the BMW X3 a good off-road vehicle?

Let’s face it: Bimmers aren’t known for their rugged capabilities. Few luxury vehicles are. The X3 can survive off-road if it’s necessary, but that doesn’t mean it should.

Ground clearance isn’t the only factor that matters when it comes to a car’s off-roading potential. Excluding the X3’s 7.2-inch ground clearance, it’s got quite a few other features that would come in handy for off-roading like optional all-wheel-drive, a 382-horsepower inline six-cylinder engine, Independent Rear Suspension (IRS), and a full suite of driver-assistance features.

However, these features should realistically be used in situations of light off-roading including gravel roads, rough pavement, or in snowy and icy conditions.

If you’re looking for a well-equipped SUV that can handle more adventure, check out the

Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium

or the

Ford Bronco

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Protect your X3 with the best insurance

If you’re checking to see if your X3 can handle an off-road trek—or if you’re just curious to know all about the X3 in general—you’re going to want to protect your set of wheels with a solid insurance policy. With

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