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:

• 

  X3 - 2006 BMW X3
  By Mrs. Kimbrough - October 23 - 10:19 pm

  There a too many malfunctions with the X3 1) doors do not unlock and lock - intermittent. 2) Sunroof does not close completely - intermittent 3) Flat tire light stays on when tires have been checked by the dealer. 4) Jerks in 3rd gear. 5) Not roomy enough. 6) Does not give the BMW feel/lacks quality overall.

• 

  Great Car!! - 2004 BMW X3
  By mtcpe - October 21 - 10:00 am

  My friend has a 2002 330 ci convertable, and after driving my new X3 asked if the dealer had any more outfitted the same! (I had to pry him out of the drivers seat. Love the performance and features. Much nicer size and performance than X5, retains the 3.0 liter 3 series performance. Easy to forget its a SUV when driving. Great $$program thru BMW financial.

• 

  Squeaks Like a 2 Horse Wagon - 2004 BMW X3
  By Yard Dog - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I bought the X3 to replace an aging 328i, which stayed in the shop most of the time. Unfortunately, after a week the squeaks and rattles in the X3 were so bad, I had the dealer pick up the car. Now, 2 weeks later I still dont have it back because the dealer is waiting for some kind of part from Germany. To be fair, they have given me a loaner, but that is not the point. I wish I had bought the 4Runner.

• 

  E(X3)ITEMENT!! - 2004 BMW X3
  By Mike - October 20 - 5:02 pm

  This is a great vehicle. Build quality is superb and interior finishes are appropriate to the way the its used. Cargo space is fine for most trips to the home center or warehouse store. Long trips of 1,000 miles are comfortable and seating doesnt fatigue. The most noticeable feature is the X- drive. When in sand or loose gravel this vehicle is superb. We had a drag race with a Benz G-Wagen while in Mexico and left our 90 thousand dollar friend far behind.... Great vehicle.

• 

  My first BMW! - 2005 BMW X3
  By BarbaraB - October 8 - 12:18 am

  I waited a LONG time for this BMW..I wanted a smaller suv, always dreamed of owning a BMW, and fell in love with the X3 the first time I saw it. Its great looking, but I never expected it to be SO much fun to drive! This is my dream car. Gas mileage? Not bad... but the ride and handling alone have made me a BMW owner for life. Excuse my excitement, but every time I get into my X3, all I can think is....."Im driving a BMW..finally!"

• 

  X3 3.0 - 2005 BMW X3
  By Bob - October 7 - 6:27 pm

  Had a 325 sedan years ago which was perfect but, with family needs, I needed a bigger car (Navigator which I still have and use). But I had to get back to the BMW 3 series. The X3 seems like a perfect marriage of many worlds - its large but its compact, its fun but its safe, its fast but gets decent mileage, its a single passenger vehicle that is also for a family, its well made but not outrageously priced. The car feels like Im glued to a track. The engine sounds are great. I love it.

• 

  sporty suv - 2005 BMW X3
  By vic leb - October 2 - 11:44 pm

  I traded in my Trailblazer for a more fuel efficient car. I love the stiff handling. Almost as if I am in my own personal roller coaster. The leather seats hug the driver and the simple yet classy interior make the driver feel like he is in the cock pit of a sports car. Love my new ride and find the engine to be quite responsive with decent gas milage

• 

  X3 - 2005 BMW X3
  By George - September 20 - 3:12 am

  The X3 is a very fun to drive SUV. More carlike in its attitude with great traction in rain and snow.

• 

  Sexy X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By Plummer - September 15 - 6:37 pm

  Purchased for European Delivery - family of 5 and luggage. BMW discounts about $2500, buy it from your local dealer. Also save rental exp. I found this site looking for a chip I might add to improve gas mileage. I get a horrible 13.8MPG in the city driving softly. Other issues: 1) at 75 MPH a high pitched noise is induced. Got to drive faster or slower to avoid it. 2) The rear hatch often doesnt shut completely. Interior light remains on. Need to really slam it. 3) Order the back-up warning system because the rear window is so high you cant see the hood of the car your backing into. 4) Stearing wheel blocks the speedometer. Regardless great car. Hope MPG can be fixed.

• 

  X-3 RIDES LIKE A TRUCK - 2005 BMW X3
  By BOB SEELOS - September 15 - 4:20 pm

  I now have 25,000 miles on my Bmw X-3 AWD with the 3.0 engine. The reliability is excellent and i have had no maintenance problems. The ride of the car is the big issue. I have this as a leased vehicle for 36 months and I can hardly wait for the 36th month. I have even tried to trade this car for a different BMW at the dealer but getting out of a lease is too expensive. The car rides like a truck-especially in the rear seat. I feel sorry for those who have to sit back there so I usually take a different car if anyone has to sit back there. The leather seats in the rear are uncomfortable too. The people in the rear are bumped up and down even on smooth roads.