Overview & Reviews

New or used, the BMW X3 is a great option for premium crossover shoppers who want extra doses of sport and class. As expected in this segment, the two-row X3 offers a high seating position, all-wheel-drive traction and abundant equipment. However, it goes a few steps further with sweet performance-bred engines, above-average handling and genuinely upscale interior appointments.

Now in its second generation, the current BMW X3 is a much-improved vehicle, but it also has significantly more competitors than it used to. As such, the X3 isn't the easy choice it once was. It's still a class leader, though, and many years of the first-generation X3 are solid bets as well. If you're looking for a luxury crossover that's not too large, the BMW X3 certainly belongs on your short list.

Current BMW X3
The current X3 is available in sDrive28i, xDrive28i, xDrive 28d or xDrive35i trim. In BMW-speak, "sDrive" means rear-wheel drive and "xDrive" means all-wheel drive. The 28i models are motivated by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The 28d switches to a diesel-powered four-cylinder rated at 180 hp and 280 lb-ft. The 35i boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. Every X3 features an eight-speed automatic transmission.

While the X3 may be smaller and cheaper than the hefty X5, you won't feel short-changed inside. The same high-quality materials and construction are present, while standard luxuries on the xDrive28i include a power liftgate, eight-way power front seats, the iDrive electronics interface and a 12-speaker audio system with iPod/USB connectivity. The xDrive35i is similarly equipped but adds adaptive xenon headlights and a panoramic sunroof as standard. All X3s come standard with Driving Dynamics Control, which provides adjustable drive settings that alter the suspension, steering, transmission and throttle calibrations.

Options are largely grouped into packages. Highlights include adaptive suspension dampers, a performance-biased all-wheel-drive system, sport front seats, a head-up display, smartphone integration and a navigation system that brings a larger iDrive display screen.

In reviews, we've consistently found the current BMW X3 to be one of the most appealing luxury crossovers in its class. For those who want an ample dose of driving fun, it's very tough to beat -- especially if you're willing to pony up for the 35i's remarkably powerful and refined engine. For fuel economy fans, the xDrive28d delivers well over 30 mpg on the highway. Although the ride is rather firm, the X3 nonetheless excels at soaking up bumps, while its trademark sharp handling remains a strong suit. The competition's stiffer than ever in this segment, but the current X3 is definitely a top contender.

Used BMW X3 Models
The current, second-generation BMW X3 debuted for 2011. Styling changes from the first generation are subtle, but the X3 is a little bigger this time around, with a gentler ride, a considerably fancier interior and improved power and efficiency.

For its first two years of production, the xDrive28i featured a naturally aspirated inline-6 engine (240 hp and 221 lb-ft) that was turbine-smooth but less fuel-efficient than the turbo-4. The new base engine arrived for 2013, as did standard Driving Dynamics Control and power operation for the liftgate (both previously optional). The xDrive28d and the rear-drive sDrive28i weren't introduced until the 2015 model year, which also marked the advent of a few new features and minor exterior styling changes.

The first-generation BMW X3 was produced from 2004-'10. Originally, there were two six-cylinder models: the 184-hp 2.5i and the 225-hp 3.0i. The 2.5i was discontinued after 2005. As part of a comprehensive update for 2007, the 3.0i became known as the 3.0si (which was subsequently changed to xDrive30i for '09) and gained 35 more hp for a total of 260. A six-speed manual or six-speed automatic were available throughout.

Throughout its run, the first-gen BMW X3 provided generous seating space (even for taller adults) and a spacious cargo area. Like the current car, it was also known for being one of the most fun-to-drive SUVs on the market. However, earlier examples were criticized for their unyielding ride and austere interior appointments. Both shortcomings were addressed in the overhaul for 2007, which also brought mild styling tweaks. Accordingly, we advise admirers of this generation to focus on the 2007-'10 models.

User Reviews:

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  Big Mistake - 2007 BMW X3
  By Regretful - July 9 - 1:08 am

  The X3 with premium and sport package looks good in a parking lot or a garage. Ride is hard. Back seat is hard. Nothing happens smoothly or refined. Choppy ride, confused transmission, not enough cup holders or console storage. Its just not worth $44k. Its in the shop, again, for warranty repairs. They tried to tell me it was ready to pick up a few days ago. Hadnt fixed either of the 2 main things it was there for. (Crazy wipers and rattling tailpipe) Still in the shop with no updates. The loaner is wonderful, 2011 328i sedan. It does everything better than the X3. Its like they learned how to build a vehicle, but dont want to do anything with a warranty repair of their past mistakes.

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  Top SUV - 2006 BMW X3
  By pinoyfrnc - July 6 - 9:55 pm

  If you enjoy speed with a dash of mobility, flexibility, security and dont have a lot of commitment in life except to be with your love ones to include all your pets. This is the vehicle to get. Perfect size and comfort for the couple and/or some that just wanna go out and play some more.

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  Mary Ann - Warwick - 2009 BMW X3
  By Mary Ann - July 2 - 12:27 pm

  I had a 525i sedan and traded it in for the X3 which is as classy and luxurious yet more practical for my life style. Either vehicle is fabulous!

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  Just Amazing - 2010 BMW X3
  By Joseph Gutman - June 10 - 3:52 pm

  After trading in an Acura MDX, I went for the X3. It is peppy, handles like all the other 3 series, hugs the road, has great pick-up and at 65", I have plenty of room. In the snow it behaves like a military tank, and on the freeway it secures the road with confidence. I bought it as a second car, and I find myself driving it daily. Its cargo capacity is more than enough and it allows for organizing anything inside. I have had absolutely no problems. I thought initially it was pricey, and now, boy! I got my moneys worth and then some.

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  Fun, Exciting But Has Some Bugs - 2007 BMW X3
  By JKepus - May 3 - 11:24 am

  Purchase experience was very pleasant. BMW service is very good. My 2007 X3 was Certified Pre- Owned and had only 24K miles. I purchased the Extended Full Warranty which was nearly the cost of a full brake job ($1800) at 60k so I considered it money well spent. I have had 2 significant issues with the X3 so far. First, one of the two engine coolant pumps malfunctioned and the vehicle wont let you drive over 20mph for fear of overheating and damage. It happened at 29K miles. Had to use BMW assist to get towed to dealer (took two hours for tow to arrive). Second, had major transmission fluid leak due to bad gasket at 30k miles. Fun car but has been in the shop too many times.

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  Part 2 of N52 engine really has problems - 2008 BMW X3
  By 1978bmx - April 27 - 7:38 pm

  My review somehow incorrectly stated the miles on my X3. The engine valve issue started at 6K, Not 60K as it states. And the car only has 11K,Not 110K as the reviews states, and yes it has been in the shop 5 times in a year and a half. The followup to my last review: After being in the shop for the 5th time BMW thinks the valve slam/tapping is normal! you should hear this especially during a cold start...it sounds like crap, no kidding it slams and thumps like crazy, and this was AFTER the cylinder head replacement! the sound comes and goes still! BMW WILL NOT DO MUCH FOR YOU AFTER THESE ATTEMPTS TO FIX A DEFECTIVE ENGINE ACCEPT TELL YOU THAT THE SOUND IS NORMAL!! BE WARNED FUTURE BMW BUYERS

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  Fun and practical - 2007 BMW X3
  By Dan - April 15 - 4:27 pm

  I purchased this X3 with manual transmission as new in 2007, and have enjoyed driving it ever since. I love its steering and ride, better than the 2010 GLK 4matic that wife owns. And to my taste it strikes a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. Nimble yet offers plenty of space for a small family and large cargo room with second row folded down. The leatherette interior is care free. No problems so far except for a burned out brake light. 4x4 warning light came up once, and went away by itself. Dealer cannot tell whats going on...

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  N52 engine really has problems - 2008 BMW X3
  By 1978bmx - April 3 - 11:56 am

  I purchased my x3 new, did my research and the x3 came in to be up there with the 3 series in quality. At around 60k the valves started to tap like crazy, (metal on metal sounds- if yours is doing this it is not normal! It needs to be repaired- dont let the dealer service people tell you its air bubbles in the oil. It will lead to premature engine failure this should be covered under warranty) the tapping sound was especially loud with cold starts. The engine cylinder head was replaced, but the sound is more of a thumping slamming sound now, it will be in the shop this week again! Even the BMW techs Ive talked to, feel the quality of BMW is really slipping.

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  fun and power - 2007 BMW X3
  By eladou - March 17 - 2:38 pm

  I leased this 2007 X3 for 3 years without a single mechanical or electronic issue. At around 25,000 miles I had to replace the 4 tires because they were worn out. otherwise no issues. we loved it so much that we bought an 09 X3 at the end of the lease. Its been 6 months since the 09 X3 and no issues at all.

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  First and Last BMW - 2008 BMW X3
  By Gary - March 14 - 4:47 pm

  Well German engineering aside this SUV has been the worst new car I have ever owned in 30 years of driving. It lives at the dealer. So far still cannot fix the hesitation issue which is severe in normal "D" moon roof significant issues: needed new exhaust at 40K miles: blower motor issues navigation system is major piece of junk: now satellite radio is defective and no parts to fix it X drive is lousy in the snow not really a true AWD system etc. Horrible vehicle trying to get out of the lease early. When get loaner car usually a 3 series love it. X3 is just a BMW fiasco stay far far away from any of these until they redesign it. Oh love heating steering wheel.