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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  2008 X3: Problem Prone - 2008 BMW X3
  By shnoby - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned BMWs for the last 10 years I love the way they handle. Fortunately, my 2008 X3 is a lease. At 5K a chronic, very loud engine tapping began (akin to the vehicle in the movie Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang.) I had it serviced at least 6 times. By 21K, the tapping reduced to a soft finger strumming, it still taps, but I deal with it. The engine strains on small & big hills & fails to shift. The car has, on *multiple* occasions, locked me inside. Neither the unlocking mechanism nor the windows opened. I drove to the dealer, called them on my cell, had them force the window down & climbed out. The interior handles, cup holders, arm rests, etc. are peeling& have been replaced once.

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  Bucking bronco - 2008 BMW X3
  By Atlgax3 - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Unexpected acceleration when going over bumps or after turning uphill can throw you into car in front of you, complete hesitation on entrance ramp, strange gear changes. Totally unacceptable and un-ultimate driving experience. Turned the 2007 model in as a lemon because it was so dangerous. 2008 is only slightly better than 2007. No help from software patches at dealer service dept. Will

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  Good - 2005 BMW X3
  By sethbolz - October 3 - 2:00 am

  All around great car for design, reliability and comfort. Interior lacks a bit in luxury (for a BMW). Power to weight ratio also lacks a bit.

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  No COMPASS when hot - 2007 BMW X3
  By Joseph - September 14 - 2:00 am

  In temps of 100, when you get in car, compass will not work. After car cools down, about 20 min, compass works fine. Taken for repair twice, & they say not showing up on computer, so they cant find problem, but I can, when temp is around 100. Our warranty runs out next month with 17,000 miles.

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  This car is a 4 wheel nightmare - 2007 BMW X3
  By Michael - August 26 - 5:28 pm

  Do yourself a favor and steer clear of this absolute wreck of an automobile. The automatic transmission is a mess. My car has 60,000 mikes and has had the transfer case replaced, the rear and front differential, exhaust system and more. It spends at least a week in the shop every 3-4 months. BMW of NA is completely non- responsive as is the dealer. Without exception the worse car I have ever owned. This is my rid and last BMW. Do yourself a favor and get and Audi.

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  Love my x3 - 2007 BMW X3
  By Now BMW Guy - August 19 - 9:47 am

  Purchased used w/ BMWs Certified warranty wasnt even looking at this model but it came up in the dollar amount I was searching for. Im really glad I purchased this vehicle for the price it a lot of car. I have not had any problems with transmission it works just fine. I believe it not the trans. but the drivers its electronic and you can confuse it by your driving style. Its also adaptive which means it learns your driving style and if more then one person drives vehicle and they have different driving styles then you might think your having problems. This vehicle pulls good on the highway but could use another 40 HP.

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  Solid purchase - 2007 BMW X3
  By Pleased - August 2 - 8:51 pm

  Bought a CPO with premium and sport package in May. Have driven approximately 5200 miles since without real complaint. The Nevada leather seats are great and I love the huge moonroof. I commute ~50 miles/day mostly highway and enjoy every bit of my drive. Handles like a dream. Gas mileage has been fair averaging ~22.5 mpg (65/35 highway). Did have to take in for a solenoid issue but service experience was excellent. Havent had any transmission issues reported in other posts.

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  A Car Built for Disasters - 2010 BMW X3
  By KAC San Antonio - July 21 - 11:29 pm

  The BMW salesman took me for a wild test ride in a San Antonio flash flood that cinched the deal. Then the car out jeeped the Jeeps in DCs Blizzard of 09, handling 12" of unplowed snow without problems. Then to top it off, I ended up driving through Nashvilles flood of 2010 negotiating severely flooded roads and torrential rain with confidence. Having a sharp car that turns heads is nice. Having the same car survive two major natural disasters and keep motoring without a scratch is X3i. My salesman said a Volvo survives a crash great but that this little X3i avoids a crash the best. He was right.

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  Everything is going wrong at 60k plus - 2004 BMW X3
  By Michelle - July 21 - 9:43 pm

  I have had the X3 for nearly two years. I am now having all sorts of issue about to have to replace the compressor at 67k already had to replace front brakes need rear brakes now. Have problems with the locking system. Also rear lighter cover wont stay closed. Overall I have enjoyed driving the SUV still with a sports car feel. Wish I would have bought the extended warranty,

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  Best Sport Utility Vehicle Ever Made - 2004 BMW X3
  By MH - July 9 - 9:25 pm

  The old (2004) BMW X3 has the best road feel of any car I have ever driven, that includes, BMW 528, 525i, 540i, 740 iL, GMC Yukon, Jeeps, Cadillac CTS. The X3 is a great car. One feels the tightness of the four wheel drive under all conditions. Do not believe those who criticize the steering and handling of this car, they are off base. The gas mileage is outstanding for continuous four wheel drive.