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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  This cant be an SUV - 2009 BMW X3
  By asiafish - February 5 - 9:17 am

  My wife was tired of her Camry and wanted to sit high in traffic. Looked at the RX350, the E35 and even the new GLK, but nothing matched the driving dynamics of the X3. I dont even like SUVs, but I really enjoyed driving this one. Brakes are even stronger than in my Mercedes, and perhaps the best highway ride of any car weve owned. Only complaint is the stereo controls are small and look alike, which is a common problem in BMW interiors. We got a very basic X3. Vinyl seats, base stereo, no nav and no option packages. Ours has the automatic, heated front seats and privacy glass no other options. What is amazing is that even without any of the packages the car looks and feels great.

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  Solid for a challenging climate - 2008 BMW X3
  By Debbie - January 28 - 1:20 pm

  For me driving in major snow storms is a given. This vehicle does everything you need it to do and feels rock solid. I drove through a monster storm this morning and to a ski resort last week on poor road conditions. I was never concerned.It tracks the road, is very stable and in the worst storm is balanced and steady. Unlike some larger SUVs I have had, the size and weight distribution on this vehicle provides a feel for the road surface and an ability to get you there. This vehicle is for someone who wants a smaller suv that can get you around in the worst of conditions. And of course, its a BMW so it goes without saying that the interior, the reliability and the extras are fantastic

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  X3 Worth the Ride - 2005 BMW X3
  By devils021 - January 27 - 6:13 pm

  The ride and feeling of safety / security is something to be expierienced.

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  BY ENGINEER - 2005 BMW X3
  By R. G. Hegi - January 26 - 11:13 pm

  I traded in my 04 X-3 for this 05 - and yes, I like them that much! Once you get hooked on the outstanding build quality nothing else compares. And the performance of this turbine smooth 3.0 engine coupled with so many built in occupant safety features puts this SUV way ahead of any other choices I reviewed. Sit in one - dont even drive it - look around then turn the key on and watch it come to life just waiting for you to guide it and show what you want. Its there for you and years from now it still will be and with one of the highest resale values on the market. Guess you can tell I like this ride. Take one out - get close to it and youll want to write something too.

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  Good but not great. - 2004 BMW X3
  By poeschel1 - January 24 - 8:16 am

  Purchased this car to replace a Tahoe for fuel economy. Gets great fuel economy, 2.5l is adequate but wish I had gone with the 3.0l. Excellent stability in poor driving conditions. Fit and finish is severely lacking. Ash tray lid wont stay closed. Paint chipping on roof rack. Often have issues with door locking system. Radio seems to delete all preset stations every couple days. I also have 330i and experience none of these issues. BMW really missed the mark with this car. Feels like a Kia.

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  Should have got the X3 in the 1st place - 2007 BMW X3
  By newzie - January 21 - 8:35 pm

  I bought a 2008 CR-V and simply was not happy with it. It is wonderfully versatile but it had no power, was noisy, had a rough ride at times and the seats were very uncomfortable. After 3 months I traded the Honda for a CPO X3 and I couldnt be happier. With the X3 I really have to watch my speed. The engine is silky smooth, its quiet, and feels solid as a rock. It may not be as roomy as the CR-V but I can definitely trade that for the joy of driving. If you are considering a small SUV think if you are buying it for yourself or for others. If you care about passenger comfort and versatility then the CR-V is a great choice. But if you want to have a smile on your face get an X3.

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  Really fun to drive - 2008 BMW X3
  By Mike - January 21 - 5:23 pm

  I have owned my 2008 X3 for 1 year. The ride is great, handling is incredible. Brakes are superior. I have the winter package, it works well. Had a problem with the heating coils in the back seat, they stuck. Dealer did a great job fixing the problem. GPS and radio are cheap at best. Gas mileage average. AWD is great. Overall great car so far.

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  best suv yet - 2004 BMW X3
  By briansheep - January 15 - 2:00 am

  X5 meets 330xi best piece of machinery ever built by bmw

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  Driving for fun - 2005 BMW X3
  By Paul Brooks - January 12 - 9:10 pm

  BMW got the X3 just right, this car is just the most fun to drive! This compact SUV is just right the size, unlike some of those oversized monsters that hog the road, including its oversized big brother the X5. The drive is quiet and very comfortable, and the peformance is thrilling, this baby drives! The X3 is a true BMW, the styling is a little conservative but the reeks of BMW confidence that does not need to impress, no vulgarity with this car, it does its job with style and delivers results that BMW drivers expect.

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  Very nice ride - 2007 BMW X3
  By 500lbman - January 9 - 11:56 pm

  Just purchased my 2007 X3 with 24100 miles on it a little over a week ago. This is the best handling SUV I have driven. Lots of power from the 3.0L straight 6. Very comfortable seats. Stereo sound quality is excellent. Much better than my 04 330ci convertible. I tried the sport package on another X3 and the ride was too rough for my taste. The aesthetic updates for 07 look great. Bluetooth is not always clear, but works okay. Also, the throttle tip-in is a little touchy and takes some getting used to at low speed. I was looking for a small SUV that was fun to drive, this fits the bill nicely. The Japanese companies cant compete with German build quality, ride and handling