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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  Got Much more than what I expected - 2004 BMW X3
  By Caballeros - August 4 - 10:00 am

  I Recently purchased an X3 2.5i not nowing exactly if I bought it because it was a BMW or because it was a car that made sense for me. After a month driving it I relize that I got a lot more than what I expected. I was scared of criticism of a very stiff suspension but is not an issue at all. It is not soft but if thats what you want you dont want a BMW. The standar features make sure that your driving experience is pleasant, fun and safe including all kind of airbags, ABS, DSC, etc. Yeah if you want leather and other gimmicks are extra. But your basic driving needs are covered.

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  what a car - 2004 BMW X3
  By Luciano - August 4 - 10:00 am

  Bmw hit it big this time with a fun to drive, responsive felling SAV. The X3 is beautifully designed and has all the toys car buyers love this days.Its technology,although many times invisible (Xdrive,Dynamic stability control)gives the driver a sense of security and control. A great alternative to monster sized SUVs. This is a size conscious,performance driven family car.

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  Never thought I would drive an SUV - 2007 BMW X3
  By Nate - July 25 - 3:47 pm

  I used to be very much against SUVs. I had a purchase and sales agreement all drawn up for a BMW 3 wagon, and then at the last minute I asked the sales person to let me drive a 2007 BMW X3 in a 6 speed manual. WOW, I was 100% sold. Coming out of a Volvo V70 T5 wagon, I needed the practicality of a wagon to haul items for my business. The 3 wagon did this job but was a bit tight. The X3 had more room without sacrificing anything in performance. So far the experience with the vehicle and BMW have been nothing less than superb. Sure, it is not a cheap drive, but the fit, finish is unbelievable. I am getting 23-24 around town and 27 mpg on the highway. I HIGHLY recommend the 6 speed.

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  Great SAV - 2007 BMW X3
  By Greg Earle - July 24 - 8:18 am

  I have owned the car now for about a week, and it performs very well. I dont find any hesitation as some reviews have stated. What some call hesitation is the engine coming up on the torque curve, not a transmission problem. I would like to physically be able to check the oil instead of depending on the computer to tell me that it is O.K. This is a great automobile, as every BMW I have owned was.

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  Head turner but only adequate value - 2005 BMW X3
  By Chrisgiraffe - July 23 - 6:52 pm

  BMW X3 is the best SUV design on the road as attested to by the many copies springing up these days. The exterior alone sold me. Perfect size, perfect space, more car than truck-like, very open interior, very solid feel and very sporty. If you want to keep some of your youth but want room to haul a growing family, this is your SUV. One suggestion though: get the premium package (leather). The standard (non-premium) package feels like driving in a big styrofoam cup thats always rubbing you the wrong way and the sport package will likely make you sick on long drives. My major complaint is the price, esp. when compared with similar SUVs (Volvo XC90) that offer more.

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  BMW fan buys another good one - 2006 BMW X3
  By Chad Cribbins - July 12 - 5:16 pm

  This is my 7th BMW and I purchased this one pre-owned with about 10k miles on it. It is a great vehicle, handle like my 330ci and is really quick! Great view of the road, great long distance car also. Mileage is just ok, but thats to be expected of an AWD vehicle. Very safe for my wife and two kids under 2 yrs old! Confident and comfortable! Always enjoy ownership experience with BMWs - total ownership with no additional out of pocket expenses makes life easy!!

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  Worst New Car I Ever Owned - 2007 BMW X3
  By Marc - July 10 - 2:30 pm

  I bought my new X3 a week ago and it is a total nightmare. I did not know that there was a major engine hesitation with many of these vehicles, and mine is very bad and even dangerous. The steering is not aligned due to either a wheel alignment issue or the wheel itself is not centered. The controls including the navigation system are way too complex and awkward, and using knobs to control everything is absurd. My car has cosmetic defects on the fabric on doors and pillars, and it looks like they totally left out the quality in this SUV. Overall, should have got the RDX.

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  Just Bought a Used 2004 - 2004 BMW X3
  By S Lanoue - July 5 - 2:43 pm

  Ive only owned the vehicle for 4 days and Im quite attached already. The engine is powerful. One caution to first-time BMW drivers, the car uses premium gas. There are plenty of unique features that Ill be reading about for days and learning how to use (rain sensing windshield wipers, self-adjusting headlights, etc.). It does seem a bit utilitarian in the scarcity of luxury-type interior features (wheres the built-in sunglass holder and coin rack?). Also, the ride is very springy/bouncy, not as smooth as I expected. Nonetheless, I am smitten at least with the novelty of it all.

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  BMW X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By Kelly Ann - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Its the best mini SUV you can find. Every peny is worth the spend. Drives like a 325 with lots of room in the back.

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  Classy ride - 2007 BMW X3
  By SharonChristiansen - June 26 - 9:43 pm

  My husband and I love our new X3. We were originally going to go with the Volvo XC90, but after test driving the X3, we loved it. It handles better than the XC90 and its cheaper.