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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  It is truly sporty with utility. - 2007 BMW X3
  By Frank - January 19 - 2:08 pm

  Its hard to find fault with this one. Its stylish, has unique bells and whistles and performs while providing utility and comfort. BMW truly is the ultimate driving experience. It far surpasses the Mercedes sports sedan I traded for it. The only other vehicle Ive owned that compares to it is the BMW 5 series I once had.

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  Great SUV... could get a little better mpg - 2006 BMW X3
  By BostonB6 - January 17 - 3:01 pm

  Fantasic automobile. No problems in first 6 months/8k miles of ownership.

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  06 X3 - 2006 BMW X3
  By Tim McMahon - January 8 - 4:10 pm

  First let me say how impressed I was with the handling of this SAV. Coming from an M Coupe I was not expecting a vehicle of this size to handle so well. The only problem is the ride is very stiff- making driving on some roads downright painful. The design is excellent, very solid and additional features- bluetoot and MP3 inputs were a plus. And the heated steering wheel- very nice here in NY.

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  Another great BMW - 2007 BMW X3
  By Ron - January 1 - 12:33 pm

  I just got this vehicle a week ago and I have to say it is amazing. I got it fully loaded with everything except the sport package. The interior and exterior quality is the best!

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  Down right AWESOME! - 2007 BMW X3
  By M. Thom - December 28 - 3:46 pm

  This is my first BMW and SUV - I love it! Definitely a nice upgrade from a luxury sedan (previously had 2 Audis). The ride is firm and sporty and the interior is plush. Lots of power and sports car handling. You owe yourself to take a serious look!

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  2004 BMW X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By mjloeper - December 26 - 9:50 pm

  Very fun. Drives wonderfully in the snow and wet. Quiet ride and power.

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  The best SUV for the money - 2005 BMW X3
  By Peyman - December 19 - 10:37 pm

  We have owned our 2.5L X3 for over a year now and we could not be happier. This is an excellent crossover SUV.

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  Best buy - 2004 BMW X3
  By Jarno - December 16 - 2:04 pm

  3.0i with sport package and manual 6-speed. Great car to drive in mountain spins, highway and also in city. Sport pack suspension makes car very fast to drive. Winter driving with studded Nokian HKPL4 is fun and safe. 28 mpg/55 mph, 25 mpg/72 mph highway, and 21 in city, thanks to the manual. Trunk eats 3 person weekend luggages, big emmaljunga & Graco city strollers + hunting staff, everything under cargo space cover same time - I have tried same with volvo xc70 with poor success:-)).

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  X5 goodbye - 2007 BMW X3
  By Richard E. Finley - December 15 - 2:33 pm

  Having owned two X5s Im thrilled with the agility and the power response of the X3 - firm ride yes, but smooth and tight. A joy to drive - sporty and more enjoyable than our Z3 and our 325csi.

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  You have to drive an X3. - 2007 BMW X3
  By francotirador - December 12 - 6:15 am

  I have a really loaded 2007 X3. Its an unbelievable machine. I buy new cars very frequently and have gotten kind of bored with them. The X3 has given me that teenage excitement of having a car again. I really enjoy driving it. Its acceleration, handling and braking are just awesome. All of the latest safety features are in it. The fit and finish are top notch. The leather interior is beautiful. The transmission can be used in regular automatic drive, sport drive and manual. Hands free communication and BMW assist are very convenient. The BMW is in a class by itself.