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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  SUV like a sedan - 2005 BMW X3
  By Greg - February 12 - 1:39 am

  If somebody doesnt need a roomy SUV X3 is a great choice. Very good performance and handling. Nice exterior design. Fantastic x-drive system makes it really safe on every road. Driving feels like being behind a sedan wheel.

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  Improved in many ways, but not as exciting - 2018 BMW X3
  By bmwfan2002 - February 5 - 11:00 am

  The 2018 X3 is much improved in many ways over the previous model. The question is, are the improvements ones that BMW drivers were looking for? The new X3 is much quieter, smoother, and is very comfortable. But BMWs, at least in the past, were known for being fun to drive. The new X3 is not bad to drive. Acceleration is great and steering feedback is not terrible. However, the suspension is certainly more soft than previous versions. The suspension seems to waft and sway and upon braking the nose of the car pitches and dives. Not exactly something Id expect from a German sports activity vehicle - more from a 1970s Detroit car. The technology improvements are apparent, and the Harmon Kardon stereo also sounds terrific. Im disappointed that despite this X3 being bigger than the previous model, cargo capacity is actually less. This is a great car for a technology guru, all-around family vehicle or road trip vehicle, but if you are looking for that classic BMW handling feel, look elsewhere.

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  Great car--except... - 2005 BMW X3
  By 05 x3 3.0 - January 29 - 5:06 pm

  Great car, except it is tight in the back with three adults. Drives perfectly, and handles more like a sedan then an SUV. This is a bigger and more fun version of the 3-series. Same great handling as the little 3 but with all the fun of an SUV. Haven`t tested it out too much in the snow, but I am looking forward to the challenge. 4 years free maintenance is ALSO great..

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  Pure fun and excitement - 2005 BMW X3
  By S. Young - January 28 - 8:49 pm

  A family of four, we live at 9000 feet in the Colorado Rockies. This vehicle has plenty of power, top end speed, and cornering ability. Very sure footed on ice and snow. The hill descent control works great on steep and winding snow packed roads. The cargo area, while small, holds a surprising amount of stuff. The xenon lights are great for illuminating elk and deer along the road and peeking around corners further than normal lights. It makes the 70 mile round trip to work everyday through a winding canyon a pleasure. I would highly recommend this car for the mountains. The body of an SUV and the soul of a sports car.

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  love my beamer - 2005 BMW X3
  By yasercheema - January 25 - 4:14 pm

  Excellent overall performance, its dependable, reliable, gives great mileage on the highway for a suv.

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  Love this vehicle ... - 2006 BMW X3
  By Troy - January 22 - 11:24 pm

  This is an incredible vehicle in every way. I wanted a sports car but needed an SUV - this is the absolute best blend on the planet. I have the Sports Pkg - the seats fit like a glove and the handling is awesome.

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  great road handler - 2004 BMW X3
  By autofan - January 17 - 1:54 am

  This is a great car, it accelerates quickly enough and it follows your intentions effortlessly and its overall dimensions are excellent, it is neither too small nor too big for driving around town or on the freeways. The roof skylight is just awesome because it lets lots of sun in. It is a pleasure to drive.

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  STICKS LIKE GLUE TO THE ROAD - 2004 BMW X3
  By Facet88 - January 15 - 10:00 am

  Traded my 525 I for this 3.0 X3. Very roomy inside great visability cruises at 80 mph without feeling the road. Eats thru wet roads look forward to the snow season.Great Brakes. The ulitmate driving machine. You wont be disapointed.

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  Very Nice - 2006 BMW X3
  By jjluc77 - January 8 - 11:03 pm

  This is my first German car. I have always had Nissan, Toyota, and Honda. Therefore, I love reliability. We got this car on a whim. So far it is outstanding! The drivability is awesome! Handles like a sport sedan and offers plenty of interior space. We love the safety features and secure feeling while driving.

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  Im very happy - 2006 BMW X3
  By 05x3 - December 31 - 6:46 pm

  I got my X3 3.0 in March 2005. This vehicle has everything I need. Besides a few small problems the car works fine. This the the 4th BMW Ive owned. I live in downtown Chicago and this is an ideal vehicle for city driving. Great turning radius!