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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  no regrets - 2004 BMW X3
  By bluecoyote - December 30 - 8:00 am

  ive been driving it for 1 and 1/2, and like it so much will likely buy it when lease is up. had an initial problem right after delivery - rattling windows. Dealer took care of it, no problems since. I have the faux leather interior which is awesome for my big dogs. Wish the trunk was little roomier and wish they had offered satellite radio at the time of purchase, but otherwise, its great. Good gas mileage too. Would recommend this to anyone thinking of a crossover vehicle.

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  Wish it used less gas - 2005 BMW X3
  By yetialan - December 30 - 12:56 am

  Wow what a great car/truck/suv. I would expect it to get better gas mileage since it is based on a car platform. Awesome ride and handling and what an amazing sunroof. Got the red leather interior. Interesting no one has it so it looks sharp. Easy navigation system. Not that much room in the trunk area but certainly enough. Feels rock solid on the road and safe. Memory seating build into key fob has to be one of the best features along with heated steering wheel. Great sunroof. It sure holds its value. Hope this helps. Thanks

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  The 2.5 Manual Has Enough Power - 2004 BMW X3
  By H. Jones - December 29 - 6:01 pm

  The 25 liter 6 speed manual trans. offers gear ratios which are correct for the nenine. I get 20 mpg around town and 27-28 mpg on the road. I have heard complaints about the power. I live in the Rocky Mountains and have not trouble with power as well as no trouble with passing. Perhaps, drivers dont like the managing the power with a manual transmission. It takes deep snow well and will do a good job in mud (we have both). I replaced the original tires at 20,00 miles with Kelly Navigators good tires! The only problem I have had is the seat cover on the drivers side cracking. It handles so well I think many sedans would be poor by comparison.

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  Closest SUV/Sports Car out there - 2004 BMW X3
  By vsroman - December 28 - 5:32 pm

  After 25,000 miles and almost two years this SAV is a very reliable vehicle. It really took a full year for me to really appreciate it. It is a sporty summer fun vehicle with the big sunroof and rips through the ice/snow with ease in the winter. If you dont want two vehicles this is a great compromise. It drives almost as sporty as a 3- series and is awesome in the snow. Add the extra utility and it is truly a winner. And pretty decent gas mileage too. I routinely get 21 mpg and drive fairly hard on the gas pedal.

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  Goodbye Trailblazer, 4ever. - 2005 BMW X3
  By Jack Schofield - December 20 - 12:35 pm

  A pleasure to drive. Quick, nimble, safe, efficient, comfortable, sounds great, looks great, smells great. Better Me Walk is not so true. BMW For Life. If people do their research, they will know that the X3 has a stiff ride. It is a small performance truck. DUH!!!!!!!!

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  Nothing to get excited about - 2005 BMW X3
  By H. Gleeksman - December 18 - 3:19 pm

  This is a noisy, uncomfortable vehicle with nothing to recommend it except for sitting up high. Its power is ordinary its ride is noisy and rough. It has a strange rattle in the sunroof. After all is said and done it is over-priced, too.

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  2006 BMW X3 - 2006 BMW X3
  By Tanya - December 5 - 8:32 pm

  Previous car: 1998 M3 (manual trans). Its not in the same league but I had to slow down anyway. The car still gives me a good feel of the road, handles very well, is stylish, and is well appointed. A definitely classy SUV compared with all others on the road. Ive had it for 30 days and put 3400 miles on it. Drives great and I can only assume Ill love it for the next 6 years as I did my M3. And I like the 4- year no-maintenance costs. I bought it off the lot with the ZPP Premium package, cold-weather package, xenon headlights, and automatic transmission. Had to buy a bluetooth-capable phone, but its worth it! Phone calls are very clear through the speaker system. No complaints.

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  Great Car - 2004 BMW X3
  By baddog123 - December 3 - 10:00 am

  Overall, love the vehicle. The safety features are incredible. After driving a Jeep cherokee with nothing for safety this is great. Weird quirk-cant open the rear hatch from inside car; must use key. The xenon lights are amazing and truly increase visibility at nite. The dash area wouldnt win any beauty contests, its a bit rustic.

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  X3 X-cellent - 2004 BMW X3
  By Rtuchol2 - December 3 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased the X3, and couldnt be more pleased. I believe that BMW may have some future design changes, but the ultimate perk to the X3 or any BMW is the service plan. You may pay the higher price, and compromise the luxury, but you wont have to do a thing for the life of the car. BMW takes good care of its owners.

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  X3 could be better - 2004 BMW X3
  By RussoX3 - November 28 - 5:27 pm

  With 18k miles, this car rattles from a few areas, and there is a water leak soaking the back seat floor. Car handles great and is fun to drive - the 6 speed helps! Overall car is comfortable and handles like a BMW. Quality of materials is a problem.