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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  Overall Great Car - 2006 BMW X3
  By Robb - November 21 - 2:13 pm

  I went from the 325i to X3 and have overall been pleased. Minor issues are only one cup holder in middle many come stock with fake leather- it looks terrible and doesnt wear well either. Go for the REAL THING! It does feel more like a sports vehicle than luxury. But, its fun to drive!

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  Amazing car - 2007 BMW X3
  By F. Stile - November 19 - 10:25 pm

  I have only owned this car for 3 days but I already love, love, love it! I previously had a volvo cross country wagon but wanted to sit up higher and have more pep. This car really delivers! It is so well made and handles beautifully. The drive is smooth, the seats are comfortable with great lumbar support, and the visibility is outstanding. Really a fun car to drive.

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  BMW X3 - 2006 BMW X3
  By Bimmer Doc - November 18 - 10:44 am

  One heck of great car to drive. Solid and very responsive. Not like the usual SUVs. No problems at all so far.

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  On top as usual - 2006 BMW X3
  By BMW.Nick - November 16 - 6:31 pm

  Well, its no surprise that the X3 has not let me down. It is, as with every BMW offered, the best in its class. No other SUV can touch the X3 mainly because its an SAV... theres a huge difference. Homerun! The only other small SUV Id own is an 07 X3!!

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  Interesting package - 2004 BMW X3
  By Volkot - November 15 - 10:00 am

  My X3 2.5 got all options but premium sound, 10-way seats and heated steering. After reading reviews, I was afraid of the build problems, but my car got almost none. Reflex LCD Nav unit and sunroof are great. Interior material quality is fine (same as Z4). Engine is ok for everyday drive, would feel better w/manual. So 3.0 is not really needed, unless you think you can race an SUV. I mostly miss alarm, premium sound and lumbar support. Also do not expect much in electronics dept, as Austria is far behind Japan for things like MP3 and bluetooth. Also, typical to BMW, most necessities (i.e. all-weather mats) are not standard.

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  PERFECT - 2004 BMW X3
  By FPURKEY - November 15 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE OWNED ALOT OF VEHICLES BUT THIS ONE IS BY FAR THE BEST IN PERFORMANCE, COMFORT AND LOOKS. BMW HAS A GREAT ONE IN THIS SUV. THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR LOOK IS EXCELLENT. I LOVE THIS ONE!

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  Disappointed in BMW Engineering - 2008 BMW X3
  By C.T. - November 8 - 4:57 pm

  i have had my 2008 X3 for 5 years now and very disappointed in BMW Engineering, very poor engineering and i had to do repairs frequently, cannot count but the recent one was starter and ipbs switch that costed me $1100.

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  I still love it - 2006 BMW X3
  By Scott - November 8 - 1:48 pm

  I purchased this car in Germany and have had it up to 120 mph on the autobahn. even at that speed it handled like a dream. it seems to get its best mileage at around 70 mph on the highway. My last vehicle was a Nissan Pathfinder and I thought I would miss the extra space that it provided. I have had no issues with the cargo room with this car, even with two small children.

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  2007 BMW X3 3.0si - 2007 BMW X3
  By Ali - November 8 - 11:22 am

  This X3 rules in the mid size SUV market! I had a 2004 X3 with the 3.0 this 3.0 is upgraded to 260 horses and it runs! I have the manual and it says the 0-60 time is 6.8, with a K&N drop in I say my time is below 6.5! This baby can run!

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  Its an OK Vehicle - 2005 BMW X3
  By Tom Cuomo - November 7 - 4:10 pm

  I recently leased a BMW X3. The vehicles is nice. But BMW could give you more standard features. One example is Fog Lights which cheaper SUVs have as standard equipment and cruise control. Come on BMW engineers this is a BMW not a KIA or Hyundai. You even have a space on the bumper that looks like fog lights. I already got stuck with the car it wouldnt start with only 1500 miles on it. The BMW road service had to flat bed the car and bring it back to the dealer. The dealer tried to talk me out of a loaner. I got a loaner finally, a Toyota Camry which was ok. When I got the BMW back they did not replace the little cover on the bumper used for towing and it was dirty. Is that BMW service?