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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  Great little SUV - 2008 BMW X3
  By amie klemmer - March 6 - 3:26 am

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  What a blast - 2008 BMW X3
  By Scotty - February 22 - 1:11 pm

  What an absolute blast this little SUV has been from day one, It still brings a smile to my face every time I get to climb behind the wheel. It sticks to the road like glue, accelerates bullet like away from lights (or as bullet like as youll get in an SUV) and its very comfortable. We bought Alpine White with sport package and loaded it up with options. Be prepared for sticker shock - big time !

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  Bad Transmission - 2007 BMW X3
  By Dad - February 22 - 10:24 am

  I bought this vehicle to be both fun and utility vehicle. The transmission behaves so erratically it is downright dangerous. On more than several occasions its lack of response has cause near fatal accidents. It typically hesitates between 2-3 gear which is where you are at when entering a turn-about or merging into traffic quickly. The sports drive mode down shifts so hard that you swear you have been "rear-ended" by another driver. BMWNA has tried to pass this off as part of the "adaptive" or learning features of this car.

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  Excellent car BMW X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By prash77 - February 2 - 2:00 am

  Great to drive. Very stable and safe. Lives up to "ultimate driving machine" reputation.

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  POCKET ROCKET - 2017 BMW X3
  By TONY CONYERS - January 26 - 11:51 am

  I own a 2004 x5 v8 which I passed on to my son, Pretty good performance, and utility, and durability. I started shopping 6 months ago for a new vehicle. and I drove everything before returning to BMW ( I had a loaner x3 w/ 2.8 engine , and felt it was "pokey") So this time, I tried a 2017 x3 3.5 xdrive WITH M Sport package- I am a big fan of the seat cushion extension- and WOW. This machine really moves. I feel like the Little Old Lady From Pasadena- except I am 70, & living in Scottsdale. I cant say enough good things about this vehicle. Perfect for me at 63" , and I can haul lumber, boxes, whatever. The styling is great too. Worth the $$. Tony.

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  X3 weaknesses - 2007 BMW X3
  By Heidi Gross - January 23 - 11:34 pm

  There is definite hesitation when attempting quick acceleration. The gps is horrendous! Neither my husband nor myself have figured out how to enter addresses. It just shouldnt be this difficult. His aftermarket gps works like a dream. Not only is it easy to imput data, but also warns of traffic slow downs and alternative routes. The stereo is mediocre. The controls are mediocre.

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  Disappointing Transmission - 2007 BMW X3
  By Jason - January 13 - 6:09 pm

  Original impression of X3 3.0si on test drive was quite positive. I purchased a certified X3 3.0si with 12K miles. Car handles well and has powerful engine. Transmission is erratic at best. Sometimes does not engage at all, others shifts very hard and can cause nausea in passengers. BMW service cant find issue which suggests that they have not figured out optimal transmission match to the 3.0si engine in the X3.

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  There are better values out there - 2005 BMW X3
  By clydesdalecm - December 27 - 2:15 pm

  This X3 is a sharp car and drives like a 3 series sedan...this is a blast to drive. Outside of that, it gets less attractive. It isnt very big for an SUV (ie Doesnt carry a lot of stuff or people). The fuel economy for a V6 is horrible (maybe 17-18MPG?) Four passengers in this thing feels like too many. The trunk is tiny (cant fit 1 set of golf clubs across). And the interior features arent stellar for a $40K vehicle.

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  Just what Ive been looking for. - 2004 BMW X3
  By gjones1541 - December 17 - 10:00 am

  Quicker and less expensive to drive than my 4Runner. It holds the road and handles better than my Miata. I bought the 6 speed and am very happy with the performance, in every respect. I have put 2400 miles on it in all types of driving and conditions (no snow yet), and have yet to be disappointed. I am averaging 20 mpg at an average speed of 34 mph. The cargo capacity is more than enough for the luggage of 4 adults (including 2 women) for a week, and passenger room is much more than I have been used to in other cars. Premium package is worth the cost.

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  Fun car - 2004 BMW X3
  By Gerrit - December 17 - 10:00 am

  Great Car, fun drive but a little stiff. 3.0 is the engine to go with if you want to have some reserves, the 2.5 we have is great with a stick. Great design and wonderful for a family with lots of storage and trunk space.