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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  Just an amazing piece of machinery - 2007 BMW X3
  By Docal - December 11 - 9:15 pm

  The title of my review says it all about the 2007 X3. The exterior styling is just amazing. I cant tell you how many people have come up to me after seeing the X3 and said to me "hot car" or some variation of that. And its an SUV!! Performance is excellent, you really need to hold this baby back on the roads. The new 260 hp engine is just perfect. Handling is incredible too. The interior is upgraded and beautiful. You really feel molded to the seats, they are so comfortable. The X3 just exudes class in every way. You just feel so great sitting in it, and driving it is just plain fun.

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  Excellent Drive - 2004 BMW X3
  By MAP - December 10 - 4:56 pm

  It is smooth riding and handles great. We had a 20 inch snowfall last week. This car had no problems. I saw many other SUVs stuck on the side of the road. Get the heated seats.

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  Improvements - 2006 BMW X3
  By Scott - December 8 - 11:34 pm

  Has some improvements over my 04 X3. Servotronic steering is nice in parking lots, but dampens the road feel somewhat. It seems to wander around. Ride is much softer than 04, so it feels like it leans a bit more on corners, but still holds the road. Too many people complained that it drove like a BMW, I guess. This is supposed to be a sports car, not a Benz. Transmission program is better smoother shift to 2nd gear. (Auto Trans.) The 04 would sometimes hold on to 1st gear then slam into 2nd. Overall, I love this vehicle and BMW in general.

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  2007 BMW - 2007 BMW X3
  By shaowen wang - December 8 - 10:38 am

  Fun to drive. Higher view position than sedan, and same comfort as sedan. Very smooth.

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  My first bmw - 2007 BMW X3
  By jim bergtold - December 5 - 3:56 pm

  X3 2007 is nearly perfect with its new engine and transmission and improved interior. It is the best vehicle I have ever owned and I have been driving new mercedes since 1993.

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  Dream ride - 2007 BMW X3
  By jim zrust - November 28 - 10:35 pm

  The performance and driving experience has exceeded my expectations in the first week of ownership. I like the sporty feeling and the acceleration response and the luxurious feeling. I am happy with the 25 miles/gallon on my first tank of gas. It is a huge step up from my 04 325i that I still own. I am looking forward to a little snow at this point. Thanks from a happy bmw owner.

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  Not the most reliable - 2005 BMW X3
  By chloe - November 27 - 9:06 pm

  Want to love my vehicle, but it was towed 8 days ago because it wouldnt start and service dept is still trying to figure out whats wrong with it. Has spent 30+ days in the shop since I leased it at the end of Aug 05, and has less than 12,000 miles. Multiple repairs, including replacement of belt tensioner and pulley (twice), parking brake repair, mold in A/C system at 8000 miles, transmission reprogrammed, key FOBs keep failing, hatch out of alignment, various rattles, sunroof malfunctioning, dash keeps going black while driving, airbag mat replaced. Too much of a headache for the hefty price tag.

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  Superb Vehicle: Complaints unfounded - 2004 BMW X3
  By glenberk - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Fantastic car to drive. Critics say the interior not up to BMW standards. But I find it very similar to the Z4 sportscar, and no one says the Z4 aint good enough!

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  Over 40? - 2006 BMW X3
  By Al - November 24 - 10:15 am

  This is my 3rd BMW and I would get it all over again I love the bluetooh capability since I am on the phone most of the time. Over 40? Well, this guy would make feel 20 again without driving the typical and larger dads SUV but with big enough cargo space than most SUVs. This guy was built to perform - you will be satisfied.

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  Amazing and fun to drive - 2004 BMW X3
  By Harplayr - November 22 - 10:00 am

  This has by far the best build quality of any car I have owned. I traded in my 325I for the X3, and can say that the handling is almost as good. Of all the SUVs I have tested the X3 stands alone on its performance and handling. The X- Drive is a pleasure on snow or slippery conditions. Seats are very comfortable, and driving position is where it should be. The interior bike rack is a great feature for my Wife and I. I just cant say enough good things about this SUV.