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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  Fun to drive - 2005 BMW X3
  By Rayneman - March 21 - 8:50 pm

  Great car to drive a little bumpy but not bad. Fuel economy isnt as good as I hoped but better then others. Overall like the car funt to drive will probably buy another BMW.

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  VERY HAPPY - 2004 BMW X3
  By CAROL - March 18 - 10:54 am

  Love the car, very comfortable to drive and exciting. The sunroof is one of the best features. Its like having a convertible especially for the people in the back. Not as big as my previous SUV, but not as small as others. I would get another one in a heartbeat!!

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  BMW X3 2.5 - 2004 BMW X3
  By septsong - March 4 - 10:00 am

  Great car. BMW quality buid, ride and looks

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  Nothing like a BMW - 2004 BMW X3
  By Tahoe Mom - March 4 - 10:00 am

  This Bmw is perfect for the person who wants a car but feels safer in an SUV.It is so much fun to drive and also gives you a good feeling of being solid and safe.

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  Nice vehicle, but not worth the +$40k - 2004 BMW X3
  By Carl Freitas - February 26 - 10:00 am

  I just love the way the X3 handles and its compact young look. It is fairly spacious inside and provides a sporty, if sometimes somewhat rough ride.

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  Great Car! - 2004 BMW X3
  By Brick Carley - February 26 - 10:00 am

  This car drives like a 325 ro 525 with the benefits of an SUV - great car!!

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  Fun to drive, room to spare - 2005 BMW X3
  By jaaX3 - February 25 - 1:48 pm

  Buy the X3 if you are looking for utility and fun! I haul my dog and my wifes shopping bags almost daily. It is also my daily driver to work. I can get there in style and have fun with it. It has AMAZING handling. This SAV has good punch to it, too. The only bad thing I would say is the gas mileage.

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  Love it ....but.. - 2005 BMW X3
  By SONYA - February 18 - 4:20 pm

  Great to drive, well built, but way to complicated gadget wise. If one were to learn to operate everything this vehicle has without repeated references to the manual, one would be qualified to pilot a 747. Setting radio stations required over an hour of poring over the manual. Give me an AC system where I can set the vents and fan speed and not have the computer change it every minute. My husband was seriously considering buying one for himself, but has now changed his mind.

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  Superb - 2006 BMW X3
  By dharods - February 13 - 6:12 pm

  Its surely the Ultimate Driving Machine. It has a very quiet ride even at high speeds. All the controls, switches, cup-holders are very thoughtfully placed throughout the interior of the vehicle. I get 21 MPG on highways which is comparable to any other of its class.

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  Blue Water~~ - 2005 BMW X3
  By Betsey - February 12 - 1:22 pm

  I so love my x3~~had an x5 and felt it was bigger, slower and boxier. This is a fun car for everyone!