BMW as a brand is defined by the 3 Series. The compact luxury sedan condenses everything that BMW is all about, and it's no surprise that it's also the brand's global bestseller for most of its history. However, ever since consumers started shifting their preference toward SUVs and crossovers, the 3 Series' best-selling status has come under threat by the X3. Now in its facelifted third generation, the 2023 BMW X3 is slowly stealing sales from its sedan sibling. But should you pick the X3 over its rivals from Lexus or Mercedes-Benz?

The updated X3 now has sleeker headlights, a more rugged front bumper. PHOTOS BY ISAAC ATIENZA
The updated X3 now has sleeker headlights, a more rugged front bumper. PHOTOS BY ISAAC ATIENZA

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