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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  Wow! - 2007 BMW X3
  By Joyce Winter - April 5 - 9:25 am

  I drug my husband to test drive the Lexus Hybrid SUV, he drug me to test drive the X3. On paper I really thought we would like the Lexus better, but the X3 won hands down. Easier to turn into a parking space, felt roomier in the front, so much fun to drive. Im only 54" but felt I could see out of the X3 better and with more personal space. Now my husband and I are at odds over who gets to drive the SUV (its MINE). Who would have thought?

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  great ride - 2004 BMW X3
  By chattguy - April 3 - 2:00 am

  2.5 auto,sports pkg,sunroof, xe,prem sound,winter pkg, prem. pkg. The sport pkg makes the car look agressive. stiffer suspension equals firmer ride. The car is awsome. takes curves at 60mph and sits flat. Car is nimble,adequate passenger & cargo space. x3 is a perfect blend. Adaptive Xe lights turn with the car. Milage is rated at 17/23 actual is 17.2/19.9 Lexus rx330 drove sloppy and not as fun to drive. 4 wheel drive handles great in rain. BMW hitch pkg is very nice. Incompatabilities in blutooth,sat radio,and BMW assist at this time. My 2004 prius had homelink,6disk changer,and my bluetooth connection worked. Germans could learn from asia.

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  Sports Car Disguised As SAV! - 2007 BMW X3
  By Bill - March 31 - 3:26 pm

  Just completed my first commute in my new 07 X3 - it turned the twisty mountain roads into a flat, straight freeway! The V6 is very quick & smooth, handling is fantastic and up/down shifts by the 6 speed auto trans were imperceptible. The brakes are almost too good, as I am learning to be very gentle with the brake pedal to avoid stopping too fast. Looked at CX-7, RDX, RAV4, CR-V & Edge - the X3 was far and away the most fun to drive while getting better mpg than CX-7, RDX & Edge and only 2 highway mpg less than Rav4 & CR-V AWD. Storage room with back seats up or down was equal or larger than these other CUV options.

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  Overall a good vehicle but pricey - 2007 BMW X3
  By franz g - March 26 - 9:10 am

  Great vehicle dynamics silky smooth transmission good trunk space switched from FX 35 which was a great car. Has less interior storage compartments than FX 35. Nowhere near the interior quality of the FX. My X3 has a sticker price of 44k and can you belive in that price is not even a car alarm included. But what is bothering me is those very cheap controls on the radio as well as steering wheel. The radio control button is awful! BMW please! I also miss that beautiful vehicle information screen. Sound system just ok. Car has a little wind noise at speeds above 55 mph. City mileage 18-19 mpg. Highway 24-25 mpg so far.

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  Great vehicle except for the tranny - 2007 BMW X3
  By theiowan - March 20 - 7:25 pm

  Just took delivery on an X3. The mileage has been a pleasant surprise. The vehicle is well built and feels very solid. The transmission is not up to par with the rest of the vehicle. It doesnt shift smoothly and hesitates.

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  LUVIT! - 2007 BMW X3
  By DB - March 17 - 8:07 am

  I always said I would NEVER drive an SUV! Im not. Im driving an X3 and its probably the most fun and convenient car Ive ever owned. Normally those two words cant be used in the same sentence when describing a car. Im disappointed in the gas mileage but other BMW owners seem to be fine with it. The interior is divine! Cup holder doesnt hold odd size containers but everything else is perfect!

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  Used purchase - 2004 BMW X3
  By D Carty - March 15 - 10:33 am

  Was ready to buy either new Rav4 or CRV for wife who requires all wheel drive, but really wanted X3. Found used vehicle at reasonable price with 30K mi. All around better quality (currently own 21 yr old 528e and 33 yr old 2002). Consider to be much better vehicle used than new Rav4 or CRV! X drive is unbelievable!

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  Great SAV - 2007 BMW X3
  By harley - March 10 - 1:42 am

  This is my second X3. Traded in a 2005. This is one of the best handling cars/SAVs out there. You just can not do better then the X-drive system. Get the 18" wheels and Premium Pkge. The Xenon headlamps are great. I get 19 to 20 mpg driving to work, but if you drive around 70 mph you wont get 26 mpg.

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  SAV - 2007 BMW X3
  By ko - March 7 - 2:41 pm

  I purchased the X3 in Germany and have had the pleasure of driving 100+ mph on the autobahn for the last 3 months... sooo fun!! Handles like a dream, both in snow and on dry pavement. Steering is quick and responsive. The inside is roomy and quite comfortable. The size is perfect... large enough to pack everything I need and more, yet small enough that parking (even in Germany) is no problem. I didnt get the navigation system because I already had a Tomtom. I ordered a side dash mount from ProClip so the GPS doesnt take up space on the windscreen and the placement is excellent. Top quality vehicle!!

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  What a change! - 2007 BMW X3
  By T Duck - March 4 - 8:46 pm

  I owned 3 Ford Explorers back to back. I test drove 2 BMWs, an Acura and Lexus. I found myself going back to BMW for a second test drive. I could not believe the handling and drive. I find myself amazed after 2 months each time I get into the car. I find myself uncomfortable when I drive any other car now as in maneuverability.