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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  Wonderful - 2006 BMW X3
  By swyner - June 17 - 8:37 pm

  I owned a 325xi which was a great car but this is more fun to drive. For a small SUV it is great to own and drive. I would buy one again.

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  Love Love Love Love It.... - 2005 BMW X3
  By bmwgirl - June 16 - 8:27 am

  I looked at the X3 on the advice of a friend who had one. I will never buy another car again. This is a fun, reliable car that is a blast to drive. It handles like any other BMW I have had the pleasure of driving. It is truly the Ultimate Driving Machine... the X3 is meant to be driven. I love the blue tooth option, hands free cell phone with my son in the car. Its great. An excellent choice for moms on the go.

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  06 X3 - 2006 BMW X3
  By ctown - June 7 - 2:58 pm

  I had an 04 X3 that was totaled in a side impact accident from which I walked away relatively unscathed. So, when time came to replace it, I didnt hesitate to get another. I love this SUV. Its a joy to drive to work everyday. The drawbacks are the inability to get the iPod dock or navigation system if you have the satellite radio installation. Another problem are the pirelli tires, Ive had to replace three. They seem to have extremely weak sidewalls.

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  Beat Expectations - 2004 BMW X3
  By markap - June 3 - 11:28 am

  After reading the review of others which said the suspension and ride of this model year was not up to BMW standards - I was suprised. The car is about as smooth as can be. It is a pleasure to drive. I see no flaws.

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  X3 sleeper - 2006 BMW X3
  By Bruce - June 3 - 9:49 am

  Ive heard the ads for the "ultimate driving machine". Ive had many autos over the years. This X3 handles like a coupe, has all the luxury features I wanted. THIS CAR IS FUN TO DRIVE. I look forward to entering the cockpit to spin the key. The gas mileage is a little thirstier then I wouldve liked. Buy it, youll grin.

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  some criticisms/some praise - 2004 BMW X3
  By Bob464 - June 2 - 2:00 am

  2.5L slightly underpowered. A/C problems. Ride very harsh. However, still fun to drive.

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  Excellent - 2006 BMW X3
  By Serdar - May 28 - 7:01 am

  I have had this SUV for two months now. It has been great so far. It drives like a sports car w/SUV seating. For some people ride might be little stiff but this suspension setting gives it a better handling capability. It is well built and well designed. If you are very particular about what options and configurations you want on this, I suggest placing a special order. I have mine built the way I wanted and it took from order to delivery about 5 weeks. Fun part is, you get to follow your cars production cycle on the web.

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  Fun SUV - 2004 BMW X3
  By Gary Gardner - May 26 - 2:48 pm

  I purchased my X3 the first day I saw it on the lot. I have owned SUVs for eight year and love the elevated feeling they provide but I wanted a classy high quality vehicle. Ive found the X3 to be all Ive asked of it. My only complaint is the overly stiff ride. I know this is not uncommon with BMWs. Overall its great and fun to drive.

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  Fine Machine - 2006 BMW X3
  By vrrooom - May 20 - 7:23 am

  Great Driving car, and as a replacement for a ML V8, a great substitute. Handles as well as my other 3 series coupe, keeps up with traffic and delivers over 22 mpg in combined driving to date.

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  Amazing All-Around - 2006 BMW X3
  By X3 from PA - May 11 - 6:20 pm

  I had planned for months to get the new 330xi, but when I walked into the dealship and saw a Black Sapphire BMW X3, fully loaded, and with Terracotta seats, I didnt have to think twice about which car to purchase. Overall, the X3 is the best of both worlds. Smaller than the X5 and more versatile than a 3 series. The drive is amazing, it feels almost like a car. Obviously there is more body roll than a 3 series, but far less than an X5. In short, it gets me and all my friends and things to wherever I need to go...fast.