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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  X3 Enthusiast - 2004 BMW X3
  By 2004X3 - January 5 - 10:00 am

  We have owned our new X3 SAV for almost two months and have logged 4300 miles on this 3.0 6- speed manual. This new introduction into the BMW line-up has more than lived up to our expectations. The X3 is based along BMWs 3-series and stays true to form in its ability to provide a more sports- car like feel to a SUV body. The X3 provides excellent braking, is very agile, nimble, and responsive. The 6-speed manual reinforces BMWs reputation behind their manual transmisions. To those buyers who are looking for an SUV that will offer better handling characteristics, braking and overall performance .. X3 owners will be favorably impressed with BMWs new introduction.

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  Not happy - 2005 BMW X3
  By Not Happy - January 4 - 7:46 pm

  I had a 528i before this (loved it). I thought I wanted an suv and bought this x3 with both the sport and premium pkg. Not nearly the quality, Interior is cheap looking and black on black peels off. Head lights didnt stay aligned, and having them aligned was not covered by warranty. Keys remote doesnt always work and I have to lock it with key. I have taken the keys back to BMW four times to have them reset. What a pain. Fuse went out on auxiliary outlet and BMW says not covered by warranty (this fuse cost less than $1.00). The car looks ok on the exterior, but the sunroof rattles like it is broken, BMW says it is normal operation. Overall, this is a car.

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  Stiff ride - 2005 BMW X3
  By snowgoddess - January 2 - 12:59 am

  It is unbelievably bumpy and you will feel every seam and pebble in the road. The handling is great, though and braking is the best Ive ever experienced. Peppy and plenty of power but at an expense (91 octane fuel) The leatherette seats are just awful, ugly and uncomfortable. Cold in the winter and probably hot in the summer. Get the leather. The wood and aluminum trim provide the only other classy touches to the interior. Its a head turner around town. Black sapphire is gorgeous in the sunlight.

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  A Bit Disappointed - 2007 BMW X3
  By Ken Nersesian - December 20 - 9:34 pm

  I guess I expected more from my first BMW. My wife hated the way it drove around town, so now its mine. The transmission is definitely a design flaw and there should be a recall. On the highway it rides like a dream. Its like riding on a rail and it takes discipline to stay below 100 mph. I had a lifter noise and after several visits to service, they had to replace the cylinder head. That was another nightmare. The dealer and BMW should have made a better effort to compensate for my inconvenience.

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  Incredible SAV - 2005 BMW X3
  By vacabundo - December 9 - 2:01 pm

  I have had this x3 for 4 months and MAN, its great. We own a 2003 325Cic, and the x3 handles and moves better. Stability and handling are just amazing, let alone the braking capabilities. The 5-speed auto tranny is just right and shifts smoothly, the sport program feels eager to go, downshifting and holding gears in the right moments and situations. The tiptronic manual program is great when you want to really drive. I would rather have a 6 speed manual, you lose invaluable torque with the automatic, but not a big deal. Cornering is just like a 3-series. The aggressive look is perfect, it tells BMW all around, love the style.

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  owner - 2004 BMW X3
  By maureenp - December 3 - 2:00 am

  excellent car with lots of pickup and drives great.

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  2004 X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By alansb - November 29 - 10:00 am

  It has the feel of a BMW and the special features of a SUV.

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  love, love, love my X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By eileen - November 29 - 10:00 am

  The X3 is the perfect car for me...a mom with 2 children. It is roomy enough for my highschooler and his friends. My 3rd grader can spill and the leatherette wipes clean with a little water. There is room in the trunk for boogie boards, luggage or anything a family of 4 needs to load. Not too big, not too small and attracts a lot of lookers!

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  2008 bmw x3 - 2008 BMW X3
  By 78bmx - November 21 - 3:27 am

  Driving Hondas for years (owned three and put over 200k miles on each of them). I recently purchased a new BMW X3 in September. Been a BMW motorcyclist for over 25 years. I thought I would try one of their four wheeled models. I have been a bit skeptical about the quality of BMW cars, "they drive great, but more electrical demons than you can imagine" and so on is what I would hear. The X3 drives great, its a solid handler, great tracking, good road feel. But guess what: at 1243 miles my cd player-radio just decided to quite working, off to the shop it goes. Its a minor issue, but a radio should work on a brand new $43k car!!

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  Great Crossover - 2008 BMW X3
  By Deal Finder - November 16 - 10:05 am

  This is my 2nd BMW in 2 years and I love this X3. It is fully loaded (I got a dealer demo so got a great deal) and in the 2 weeks that I have driven it I got 22 MPG. I tried Acura, Infiniti, Volvo and Lexus. No doubt you pay a little more upfront, but once you drive it for a few years its all worth it - thanks to 0 maintenance for 4 years and the overall BMW brand value. When you buy a BMW you dont buy a car - you buy an experience.