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:

• 

  first time Beemer fan for life! - 2005 BMW X3
  By Tom Beemer - November 24 - 11:55 am

  G-friend turned me on to bmw! I wanted the utility space, high sitting position and a sport like performance. This car, like the write ups states, is the car to get! Only draw backs: the arm rests - slightly slanted downward my arm never finds comfort. The leg room seems a bit confining - however with all the adjustments it all works out! Gas fuel economy is not too bad if you are patient at 55 mph. I have clocked 29 mpg on the h-way! Usual combined city/ hway: 21 - 24 in a 3L engine with 224 hp - that rocks!

• 

  The 2006 BMW X3 - wow - 2006 BMW X3
  By drakec1 - November 13 - 3:12 am

  Wow!!! I love this vehicle. I have the silver gray metallic with the black and terra cotta interior. It drives like a sport sedan, but with a higher view like a SUV. The interior is very well done and easy to clean. I have the auxillary input for my iPod, and with the upgraded stereo, the sound is fantastic. I had a 2004 Acura TL, but this summer I hydroplaned and wanted to replace it with something all-wheel drive and more like a SUV without giving up the sportier/more luxurious side of driving. I could not have asked for anything better. The only...and I repeat, only downside is the fuel economy.

• 

  X3 Rebuttal - 2006 BMW X3
  By Tanya - November 12 - 1:20 am

  Previous car - 1998 4-door BMW M3. Though this car cant compare, its a fun vehicle to drive. Its roomier than the M3, handles fairly well, has a higher ground clearance. Has Luxury yet not overly done, clean lines. Havent had it long enough to experience any problems, but I had my M3 for 6 years before problems started popping up. I expect to have this one just as long. 4-years maintenance was too attractive to pass up. Test drove many SUVs (at least 10 cars) the rides were close, but BMW had the maintenance and the tighter steering. I dont mind a stiffer ride if I can feel the road. This isnt a smooth-car ride.

• 

  Fun, reliable and good gas milage - 2005 BMW X3
  By Joe - November 8 - 10:21 pm

  Traded a Lexus RX300 for the BMW. The BMW is far more nimble and fun to drive. My gas mileage has been great, 18 to 20 in town and 25 to 26 on the highway. The BMW is not as quiet or luxurious as the Lexus but has more room behind the rear seat and the seats are more comfortable (still pretty hard though). My only complaint is that the interior is dfficult to keep clean. The dash and synthetic seats look tough but show every spec of dust. Advice: dont get the black interior.

• 

  X3 Rating - 2005 BMW X3
  By Kenneth Lowrie - November 8 - 1:57 pm

  The only objection I have to this vehicle is the need to use premium fuel. However, maybe thats necessary because of the outstanding engineering.

• 

  BMW X3 - 2006 BMW X3
  By njp62 - November 8 - 12:21 pm

  This is my first BMW and I love it, comfortable, fun to drive.

• 

  Great SUV - 2005 BMW X3
  By Steve - November 6 - 7:29 pm

  The BMW X3 has great styling and sporty ride. I cant wait to drive it in the snow.

• 

  2006 BMW X3 (purchased 10/22/2006) - 2006 BMW X3
  By Pierce - November 5 - 2:31 pm

  With the 2006 iteration of the X3, the gray cladding is gone from the front end. A matching painted from end with repositioned fog lights has dramatically improved the aesthetics of the vehicle. Our X3 has been driven some 800 miles, and over these miles the vehicle has performed flawlessly. The quality and finish on this factory ordered X3 is first class. The handling is superb. The X-Drive works to make driving in water-filled pitted lanes far less demanding of the driver. The X3 isnt an M3 when it comes to handling, but is IMHO handily superior to the offerings by other SUV marques. Overall, the X3 is quality and value under $50k.

• 

  The New X-3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By oscar maren - October 27 - 10:00 am

  We have been driving this new automobile for a month now and it is a superb SAV! The only negative comment I can make is the GPS Map is located on top of the dash board and in bright sunlight it is not very visable. If this could be located lower on the dash board it would be much better. Other than that it is a fun car to drive and is an eye opener to look at! BMW should be proud of this auto.

• 

  Glad I Waited For 05 - 2005 BMW X3
  By DurangoDoug - October 25 - 1:46 am

  The 05 X3 3.0 comes in at around $2,500 less than the 04 version. Because the MSRP stayed the same, but the moonroof is now standard and the auto tranny is now a no cost option. In 04 those 2 cost about $2,500 combined. Yea, the ride is a bit stiff, but no worse than the truck I traded. Yet with the X3 there is no body lean in turns. Cornering is so much fun now, not like my wallowing truck. Gas mileage is already better (only 500 miles so far) than my old V8 truck and should get better as the engine loosens up. Even in regular drive mode it is spirited, in sport mode WOW, really quick! Great in the snow as well. I negotiated $1,750 off vs an Edmunds target price of around $400 off. Sweet!