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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  Great little SUV - 2005 BMW X3
  By BoiseBigKahuna - September 14 - 10:36 am

  This ute is a blast to drive. It handles great and is pretty darn fast. The interior is surprisingly roomy and the back seat is comfy for 3 adults.

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  Best mid-size SUV yet - 2005 BMW X3
  By X3 - manic - September 8 - 8:53 pm

  I decided to replace my 2-yr old Jeep Liberty with a sportier SUV, and found the perfect choice with the X3 3.0i. It is the perfect balance between function and luxury, not as soft and plush as the Lexus and not as utilitarian as the Subaru Forester. Handles like a BMW 3-series and has the hauling capacity of the Jeep liberty.

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  Great, reliable, and fun. - 2005 BMW X3
  By Austin Murphy - August 21 - 10:14 pm

  It is a wonderfully fun car to drive yet still is reasonable in size, fuel economy, and features. The 2.5-liter engine can be a bit underpowered but most of the time gets you around with plenty of power to spare. Fuel economy is great for the type of vehicle and interior design is wonderful. If I could bash on one thing it would be that the interior be a little quieter other than that the car has great visibility and can fit five comfortably its a great buy. It of course drives like a BMW too so why not buy it.

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  Me & My X-3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By LG - August 15 - 11:23 pm

  The X-3 is a very tight riding, solid European car. The exterior styling is beautiful. It handles very well in snow. The moon roof feels like a convertible when opened fully. Gas mileage could be better, but Ive used regular gas without any problems. I do not feel the 2.5L engine is underpowered. The interior I have is leatherette and somewhat plain, but spills wipe off easily. The A/C could be a little better. I wish it had a center console. Overall, Im very happy with my X-3!!

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  perfect combination - 2004 BMW X3
  By Pat - August 10 - 4:06 pm

  Ive owned Porsche, several SUVs,, Chevys, Jeep, Subaru. Looked at the Beamer cause I loved my BMW K100 motorcycle. Since it is a little pricey, (not overpriced) looked at company cars with less than 9k miles. Also drove Mercedes, Lexus, Audi Toyota etc. Wanted performance AND 4X versatility. Got both in spades. Handles better than some sports cars. Heated leather seats and all the bells and whistles you could hope for.

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  Besy Performance SAV - 2005 BMW X3
  By Rental EXP - August 7 - 7:03 am

  Outstanding Ext./Int. design and with one of the best 3.0 engine in the world

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  New for 2005 - 2005 BMW X3
  By Owmerof2005X3 - August 3 - 10:48 am

  Although it has not been publicized, the 2005 X3 got a completely new suspension making it a much smoother reider than the 2004. Mine has the standard suspension and it is hard enough. The choice of tires is also important and the OEM Michelins ride far better and soother than the OEM Bridgestones which were rated as less than safe in the wet by Tirerack. Note that the cars are delivered with less than perfect alignment and when checked at an independant source, it was found so out of alignmemnt that it took the dealer hours to realign under warranty. Other than that the car has performed flawlessly and the assembly quality is better than on the X5, very much Austria built! Great car.

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  Stiff Ride - 2005 BMW X3
  By DJ - August 1 - 1:52 pm

  very stiff ride without sport package. I wonder if the tires make a difference. Mine has Michelins.

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  nice for an suv - 2005 BMW X3
  By heather - July 30 - 11:43 pm

  I traded a 3 series for this car and the extra space is great. I miss the handling of my 3 series but I like the compact nature of this SUV. Highly rec not getting the sport package as it is way too stiff. I also feel that this car, even with the 3.0, is not as powerful as it should be. We are a BMW family and it is hard to be fair comparing it to a sedan, but it is great for our growing family. I also like my installed DVDs in the headrests.

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  Ill keep it - 2005 BMW X3
  By srq - July 30 - 4:59 pm

  Performance and quality top notch. Ride rough on rough roads.