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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  Finally found the right vehicle - 2017 BMW X3
  By MRM - December 15 - 6:03 am

  I love this vehicle! I have the x3 v6 msport. Purchased in July last year and have about 6k miles. Its so quick, it hugs the road, corners extremely well, and is so fun to drive. The interior is comfortable and the technology was very easy to figure out. I have a 4 year 50k warranty bumper to bumper. The maintenance program went to 3 yr 36k for the 2017 model year, but ok with me. I test drove so many vehicles before deciding and couldnt be happier with my choice.

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  Just Not Worth the Money - 2008 BMW X3
  By Marc - December 8 - 9:33 am

  This is my 2nd X3 in 6 months. I had so many problems with 2007 that BMW bought out my lease and I ordered another one (would not let me totally out of the lease). These are overpriced and not up to par with Japanese vehicles. Problems-- transmission does not mesh with engine, hesitation, brakes grab, OEM tires were AWFUL in snow last few weeks, took them off before slid into something. Navigation system is archaic. Radio even upgraded one just does not provide quality sound. This is definitely not the ultimate driving machine. I would never recommed an X3 to anyone else. I do not know how other reviews are favorable. Guess just taken away with BMW emblems all over the car.

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  BMW X3 overview - 2004 BMW X3
  By Ed Rohnk - November 19 - 3:04 pm

  It is very responsive to the movement of the controls. Acceleration is good. Holds the road well. It is a surpringly nimble car for its size. The breaking is excellent. The interior is spacious. Dash board and instrument readouts are easy to see. I like the orange lighting at night. The exterior sun roof design is beautiful. I enjoy just looking at it.

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  Got rid of it! - 2004 BMW X3
  By Lisa - November 14 - 7:09 pm

  I think I was just so excited to be able to say that I OWNED a "BMW" that I got too caught up in the name. I was so disappointed to find out that only weeks after I purchased the vehicle, it started rattling like a cage! It felt like it was falling apart. I expected alot more from a "BMW." I traded that sucker and am now the owner of a Lexus and I couldnt be happier!

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  Worth Every Penny - 2008 BMW X3
  By ericbell1 - November 12 - 7:54 pm

  Weve owned the car approximately one month and still brings a smile to our face while driving. This is our first BMW and were very pleased with the build quality and the fit/finish.

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  Somebody Stop Me (From Having So Much Fun) - 2016 BMW X3
  By Robert Schulte - November 10 - 11:08 pm

  What a great car ! My wife and I are older and used to have BMWS when we were younger and it was easier to get into her Z3 and my 330I. After a few back surgeries, retiring to our beloved northern Minnesota, and not having a dealer close by for service, we traded the Bimmers in for Hondas. They are great cars too ! Her CRV and my Ridgeline are wonderful, but she is so short that she had a hard time driving the Ridgeline. We traded the Ridgeline in on this car because she can drive it easily and I missed the handling and just plain fun of a BMW. Nuff said . We have to go to Minneapolis for service ( its 200 miles away ) but , we dont care. Driving it there is a blast ! We have the 3.5l M ! For us, its doesnt get any more fun or comfortable !

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  What a wonderful SAV by BMW - 2008 BMW X3
  By BMW4Life - November 8 - 6:56 pm

  Just got our 2008 X3 two weeks ago with all options except servotronic. Its been wonderful so far. We have the alpine white with sports performance package which comes with 19" wheels. This is a must have if you want the best looking X3 out there, it looks so much better than the rest. The color coded aero kit makes this car look even better (no more black bumpers/moldings. It drives like my 540 and it also has the cargo space to haul our weekend gears. We have two kids and my wife can sit between the two car seats for our two our trip last weekend, and shes 58", it is almost the same size as our 01 X5, but it is much quicker because its 800 lbs lighter and it is also fuel efficient

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  One great small SAV - 2008 BMW X3
  By BMW4Life - November 8 - 3:44 pm

  Got my 08 X3 two weeks ago, have all options except servotronic steering, sports performance package is a must, the 19" wheels look so much better than the rest. Alpine white exterior is the best color choice by far. Automatic headlights is cool. It drives like my 540, but with enough cargo to haul our weekend gears. We have two kids and my wife can still sit in the middle between the two car-seats for a two hour drive. It is almost the same size as my 01 X5, only quicker and more fuel efficient.

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  It is all in the engineering! No frills - 2006 BMW X3
  By Cecilia Dowd - October 4 - 12:53 am

  I have owned this car for 14 months. One trip to the dealership for leaking oil was quickly resolved. Driving this car over 80 mph, winding roads or bad weather is where you really appreciate and enjoy this car and its capabilities. It handles extremely well. I feel very safe driving this car.

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  LONG DISTANCE TRAVELER - 2004 BMW X3
  By TRAVELER - September 22 - 10:00 am

  WOW - What an automobile! Ive owned a bunch of rides but this one really stands out. Its quick, very stylish and about the safest auto built. To really appreciate all the safety and comfort built into this car I suggest reading the owners manual several times. It has a very powerful A/C, for example, but one must learn its features. In summary - I could have bought any automobile but thankfully I bought this one.