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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  2006 X3 - 2006 BMW X3
  By sfishman - July 24 - 6:13 pm

  The X3 is one of the best cars Ive ever had and Ive had a lot. The only complaint is its gas mileage which I know can be better. Other than that the care is very well built. The aluminum wheels also need to get better, they pit very easily.

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  Id recommend it - 2004 BMW X3
  By Tall Tex - July 24 - 4:43 pm

  Its been over 2 years Ive been hauling around in this baby SUV, and Id say its been a great car. The styling is excellent, the quality is there, and the XDrive feature has great in heavy rain and at the beach. Its small enough to park but the interior is surpisingly roomy (Im 65" and fit just fine). Its the first car Ive ever owned that the seats go back farther than I need them to.

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  BMW X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By Riederer - July 19 - 10:36 am

  Nice SUV (SAV). If I were shopping for a vehical today I would buy it again. This is the first vehicle I have owned that I can say that about.

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  Disappointed? - 2004 BMW X3
  By SRF25 - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Ordered metalic Breakwater Blue paint: Paint came through with blemishes on roof: No resolution yet. Interior molding on sunroof keeps hanging down: Doesnt seem to serve any purpose so I removed it.(Velcro strip 20" long) Engine belt tensioner squeals on startup and noise coming from variable valve timing assembly area of engine. (2.5) Not sure if dissatisfaction should be directed at dealer who sold the vehicle or BMW.... Ride is choppy but not intrusive. If you want a smother ride, buy the RX330.

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  Pleased - 2004 BMW X3
  By Beamer - July 10 - 5:08 am

  This car is well built and lives up to a top quality vehicle for the open road or city life.

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  I love it! - 2006 BMW X3
  By crystal benton - July 8 - 10:18 am

  Its the best investment I made in years!! Its a great car for my son and me. Lots of space. I had lots of different cars in the past as well as driven other cars, but this car handles the road very well! Within the next 5 years my next purchase will be the 5-series.

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  A bit pricy, but fun to drive. - 2005 BMW X3
  By Ed - June 30 - 11:30 pm

  I never thought I would purchase a BMW. While delivering some documents to the dealer, the owner of the dealership took me out for a test drive during a heavy downpour. The X3 handled like a champ! It performed like a sports car ... it feels like one.

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  04 X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By gk - June 27 - 12:59 am

  Great handling, fun to drive. Excellent on curve-y PCH. Fuel economy is not the greatest but enjoy driving it so much that I dont mind filling up.

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  BMW X3 - 2005 BMW X3
  By Spo1343 - June 24 - 6:23 am

  At first I was skeptical to this SUV. With only 184bhp and a large body I was seriously considering a 325xi. However, the new body style, lower price and test drive of the X3 had me sold. It has a turnk the size of an X5 but drives like a 3 Series. The steering and suspension are tight but not harsh and if you really push it, the X3 hustles.

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  Great SAV - BUT...... - 2006 BMW X3
  By Andrew - June 18 - 3:21 pm

  Bought my 2006 BMW X3 3.0i AWD here in Germany - beautiful vehicle with surprisingly useful amenities - (i.e. partial opening sun-roof shade for ventilation when closed). Drives wonderfully, handles well & looks great (blue)... however BMW makes you purchase almost EVERY option they make. The only exception are the options finally included from previous years. I drove my SAV 2,000 miles in 10 days around Germany, Italy & France through the Alps & even hit snow in June! It drove great, but only averaged about 20 MPG. My 1989 BMW 735i with 120,000 miles on it averaged 21 MPG. Youd think they would make an engine with better MPG in 17 years! NAV is slow and easily confused - Road noise is LOUD. Autobahn speeds of 120 MPH - you had to almost YELL in the car!! Windy, forget talking!