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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  Love it! - 2008 BMW X3
  By cv - July 16 - 11:08 pm

  Its my first time to own a BMW. I have to say:" WOW!" For a SUV, this one is easy to handle, easy to park, excellent engine, good acceleration and sensitive brake! The gas mileage is not bad at all! Plus the BMW ultimate service package. Im very happy with it! Its been a week, I have a hard time from getting off the drivers seat. And when Im out of the car, I couldnt get my eyes off it.

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  x3 blue - 2005 BMW X3
  By x3mysticblue - July 15 - 5:16 pm

  This car is very fun for anyone. Its good for off roading and everyday use. It has alot of room on the inside.

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  Bmw X3 Review - 2008 BMW X3
  By steve - June 21 - 11:00 am

  This is my 3rd bmw. I have owned the 323 sedan, 325 coupe and now the X3. the X3 has the most power of the group but does not handle as good as the coupe. This is expected since it is a truck. I put in all the bells and whistles and only option I would not recommend is upgraded stereo. The Harmon Kardon upgrade in the 325 coupe sounded much better than the X3. I do not know if it is b/c the x3 is a truck and is bigger and more open, but not worth the money. I only have 200 miles on the car, gas mileage of the car is 13 miles. Hopefully that will go up as I put more miles on the car. I would highly recommend this truck, loving the view from up high and drives excellent.

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  Goodbye ! - 2007 BMW X3
  By VincentView - June 16 - 7:49 pm

  I finally had enough. Took a major loss by trading in the 2007 X3. Bought the car for 43K and got 29K in trade in ! The transmission problem in my opinion is dangerous and makes the car unpredictable in many situations (turns, acceleration from stop). Although I brought it back to the dealer for the fix, the problem persisted. In my opinion, it is a disgrace that BMW has the audacity to label this thing the "ultimate driving machine". I have been permanently soured by the BMW brand. Goodbye !

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  Buy it!! - 2005 BMW X3
  By tudm5 - June 13 - 9:48 am

  We replaced my wifes 2000 528i with this beauty. I could not say enough good things about X3. If you are worried about gas mileage, or expecting soft Buick like ride then BMW is not for you. BMW is The Ultimate Driving Machine not a sofa.

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  X3 Makes Me Young at Heart - 2004 BMW X3
  By kimkim - June 10 - 2:00 am

  I love my first BMW - X3. It is incomparable. The handling is super!! the best!!! I traded my old RX300 and drove the new RX330:the drive are the same. The new RX330 had some minor detail enhancement and thats all. I was not impress at all and to think that Ive worked at Toyota in Torrance for more than 6 months. I know fully well that after owning the RX300 for 5 years which that the X3 is really different. The fuel consumption are about the same with my old car, but of course Ive been driving the freeways.

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  The best vehicle Ive ever owned. - 2008 BMW X3
  By Rick - June 9 - 8:36 am

  From the moment I first climbed into the cockpit of the X3 till now, it has been a great driving experience. I used to think all the BMW talk was hype. Not any more. Aside from the fact that this is the best handling auto Ive ever owned, I am still discovering all the fine features of the X3. Recently, I opened the sunroof. It opens the entire length of both the front and rear seating areas, wow. I play my iPod all the time, and I think the sound system is awesome. The bottom line is the 4 year or 50,000 mile warranty including all service and roadside assistance. Who else has this much faith in their vehicles?

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  Makes Driving Fun - 2007 BMW X3
  By loyalbmw - May 21 - 5:03 pm

  I drive a lot. Over 120 miles a day. Its sleek, powerful using the steptronics, and comfortable. I have been a BMW owner for a few years now and traded in my 06 330i for the x3. So far no complaints.

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  Aint Nothin Like the Real Thing - 2008 BMW X3
  By courthouseguy99 - May 17 - 10:52 am

  Traded in an 06 X5 3.0i and love the upgraded engine BMW put into the X3 in 07. 800 less lbs to lug around, so it really flies. Got Prem, Sport, 19" wheels, NAV, Cold Wthr, Xenon, Prem Audio, Servotronic. The car rides A-OK with 19" wheels. Its got a taut, responsive yet compliant ride, just what BMWs are known for. Throttle response is lightning quick, but you quickly learn how to modulate it. Putting the car into SD mode *really* amps up the cars responsiveness. Tried out RDX (nice at first glance, but plasticky inside), EX35 (great engine, but even shorter on utility than X3), even the new X5 (too big, hate iDrive), but this was the one I had to have.

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  Great Buy - 2008 BMW X3
  By bimmerdriver - May 2 - 11:42 pm

  This has been a great car so far. No mechanical issues. The BMW engine is smooth and delivers the power when you need it. The suspension works really well too. It provides amazing road feel and yet is able to absorb our Chicago pot holes better than any car Ive recently driven. The transmission has been good so far. When immediate passing power is needed I switch from D to SD for a quick burst of speed.