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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  Nice Little Beauty - 2005 BMW X3
  By PaulV - July 29 - 11:53 pm

  I also have a 2004 330i, so I was expecting my little X3 3.0 to be a smoker too. Well...I know its not a fair comparison since it is encumbered by some extra weight and the drag of an all-wheel-drive system. I was just expecting a little more POP. Nevertheless, this the most fun to drive and nimble SUV I tested. Definitely handles like my sedan and gives me the same sporty feel. And - without a doubt in my opinion - the best looking SUV on the road - well...except for maybe the X5.

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  NO more vans! - 2004 BMW X3
  By tennis mom - July 28 - 10:00 am

  I trully love driving this vehicle. It is so comfortable. There is plenty of room for all our groceries, sport equipment, etc for my active family of 5. I have 2 daughters that now drive and have their own car so it is usually just my son and his friends that I drive around. After 3 vans, this is heaven.

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  I Love It! - 2005 BMW X3
  By Lauren - July 22 - 2:11 am

  I have had my car for 6 months and continue to love it every time I get in the car! I had two 3 series before the 3.0L X3 and I loved them, but this car is wonderful! Its sporty yet luxurious.

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  My X3 - 2005 BMW X3
  By Kenneth Lowrie - July 15 - 7:53 pm

  This is a great car. I love SUVs. My earlier car was a Ford Explorer. This smaller vehicle is far superior for the city driving I do. I dont particularly like the fact that I have to use premium gasoline, but with the good fuel mileage I get its really not that much more expensive to operate. It handles wonderfully and is fun to drive.

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  WOW - 2005 BMW X3
  By Eric Morteson - July 9 - 2:02 pm

  this car handles wonderfully. We had a huge snow storm, and we all felt safe in our X3.the interior of the car is very nice. We have owned Saabs,Hondas,Audis,and Mercedes, and we have never had a car this good.We will commit our car business now to BMW. Also the dealership was very nice to us, and gave us a great price on the car

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  First Impressions are lasting - 2005 BMW X3
  By Bham - July 2 - 5:42 pm

  Recently traded an 98 Infiniti I30 for the X3. Always driven sedans but the X3 sold me on its practicality, fun to drive factor, and design. Solid feeling, spacious, engine growls!, perfect height for my 5 wife. Expensive but worth it. Very impressed!

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  Super Mid Sized SUV - 2005 BMW X3
  By DavidJ - July 2 - 10:32 am

  We traded a Mercedes ML 500 for an X3 3.0 a month ago and couldnt be happier with the change. The X3 handles fantastically and is a blast to drive. It has the tight finish quality that the American made Mercedes lacked and it carries as much cargo as the ML. Ours was delivered with a faulty navigation computer, but this is being fixed and it doesnt affect the operation of the car. Our only wish is that we bought the X3 sooner!

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  Best Car - 2005 BMW X3
  By John Jinglehammer - July 1 - 7:12 pm

  Rode very well. Perfect amount of horsepower.

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  BETTER THAN THE REST - 2005 BMW X3
  By Noah - June 23 - 2:53 am

  Really love my X-3. It is the right size for me. I hate large SUVs and the other SUVs in the size category can be seen everywhere!! I went to the mall one day and came out only to find five Black Infinity FXs in the same row!! Love the look of the X-3. I get alot of stares. The power is perfect and I can still park in all garages. Quality of the craftmenship has been great. Buy something else if you want ugly styling or an SUV that nearly everybody has(i.e the Lexus.) This is my first BMW and I wont be going to any other brand in the future!!!

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  Great Drive and Fun - 2004 BMW X3
  By DFLerner - June 20 - 2:00 am

  Quite fun to drive, nimble and responsive handling, confident acceleration, powerful braking. One feels safe and in control of their driving environment.