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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  BMW X3 - 2005 BMW X3
  By papagoat - March 23 - 12:21 pm

  I really liked the BMW X3 because it was the perfect fit for a city person who somtimes goes out into the country. It is comfortable on the road, had plenty of nice features, and it drives like a BMW should.

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  great little suv - 2005 BMW X3
  By celticone - March 23 - 2:25 am

  First suv I have ever own. I was not a fan of suvs, but I love this vehicle. I like the size. Its easy to drive the best handling and turning radius I have ever had in a suv or truck. It drives like a small car, rides a little stiff but not unbearable, the same as any sports car. I love the interior layout simple, elegant, straight forward, good radio, and great seats. Gas milage is better than I thought I am averaging about 18 after the break in period, mostly city driving too. Reliability has been reat so far I cant imagine driving anything else

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  paulines bmw - 2005 BMW X3
  By Pauline Cenizal - March 23 - 1:10 am

  Exciting car, fun to drive, took it cross-country starting with only 500 miles on it and it performed admirably.

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  Consistency - 2004 BMW X3
  By robert amen - March 20 - 11:17 am

  I have owned BMWs since 1984. The X-3 is an excellent example of the BMW experience. It provides a solid ride, fun and is very functional. I bought it for winter driving. It is excellent in all conditions. It is fun and responsive whether driving on the highway or in NYC.The X3 is a good cross over between the X5 and the 3 series. Im very pleased with it.

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  the bmwx3 - 2005 BMW X3
  By bmwx3 - March 19 - 1:40 pm

  Absolutely a wonderful road care, in storms, weather just hugs the road and humes right along. This is an auto atits best.

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  I Love This BMW! - 2005 BMW X3
  By Dr. Jonathan D. cole - March 19 - 12:29 pm

  When I was 20 (19 yrs ago) I bought a used 1973 BMW 2002 and I loved that car. Since then I have owned many others but the most fun to drive with the most serious technology behind it is my 2004 BMW X3 3.0i. It takes curves at full throttle like a race car without any roll/worries. I just love to drive it. It is also a very comfortable car with a very nice fit and finish. This is a 3 series that has been given the blessing of X-drive and DSC and again it is a pure joy to drive (this vehicle was not designed to just haul your family around). I again am reminded why BMW has the slogan "The Ultimate Driving Machine". I would recommend an X3 to anyone who enjoys spirited driving!

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  Love the sporty X3 - 2005 BMW X3
  By Chris - March 19 - 3:10 am

  An incredible machine, expensive for the interior room, but didnt buy it for cargo space. Have put 7,000 miles on it in 6 months, absolutely no trips to the dealer for any issues whatsoever, unlike two of my friends who bought VW Toureags. Mine is fully loaded, including the sport package which does make it stiff, but that really smoothed out at about the 4,000 mile point. It is a joy to drive, especially here in Germany, and pull compliments out of even the most staid Germans for the great design. Again, it was pricey compared to many US models, but compared to the X-5, with the same interior space, etc, I believe this car was a bargain. Would buy another in a heartbeat.

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  x3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By v6saleen - March 16 - 10:00 am

  I love this car it is a great machine the car handles like a champ. It is the ultimate driving machine.

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  Its a BMW - 2005 BMW X3
  By BMWRICKEYS - March 14 - 2:54 am

  Traded in a 2003 330xi with 37,500 miles on it, for the 2005 X3 cause I needed more room. But still wanted AWD with X-Drive. Its a good safe SAV, but not a sedan. I would like it to have more power. I hope they put the 255hp Eng.in it soon. If you need a SUV thats Fun to Drive "Its a BMW"

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  unsurpassed mechanical marvel - 2005 BMW X3
  By Gavino Martinez - March 9 - 12:39 pm

  From the moment I sat on this sports UTE. I knew there was something special about this vehicle.