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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  Fun to drive - 2005 BMW X3
  By jliu34740 - March 9 - 5:54 am

  Fun to drive. Inspiring handling, braking and acceleration. Great looking interior and exterior. Sure its a little expensive but well worth it.

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  Wunderbar - 2005 BMW X3
  By gbkirsch - March 8 - 11:44 am

  Solid German build quality, superbly beautiful paint quality, reliable transportation, BMW expert service, decent fuel mileage, incredible sunroof opening which is the largest I have ever had, very comfortable and heated seats with (in my case the necessary) lumbar support, a wonderful stereo with rich low tones and crystal clear high tones, rich light wood accents and my wife’s favorite feature, a heated steering wheel. This winter, we had to go to northern Ohio to pick up our son from college and despite sub zero temperatures, massive snow and seemingly impassable roads, the X3 handled it all like a genuine off road 4 wheeler in spite of all its sophisticated amenities!

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  Theres a lot to love - 2005 BMW X3
  By LCharry - March 8 - 9:00 am

  There really is a lot to love about the X3. It handles beautifully, looks great and has just enough zip to get me to my boys baseball games on time and in style! Id say overall Id give it an A-.

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  Excelent small SUV - 2005 BMW X3
  By BMW X3 Lover - March 3 - 8:42 pm

  Its a small SUV and easy to maneuver drives & runs like a sports car and function as an SUV. Luxury & style for younger drivers. Its not a box on wheels its an X3

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  Good or Bad - 2004 BMW X3
  By Anschris - March 3 - 4:06 pm

  We had a MB C230 coupe & loved it so much for a hatchback cargo space, the ride & of course the panoramic roof except rear wheel drive in snowy winter...It was time to change & get a BMW X3, more cargo space & more secure in winter driving. Its so grip on snow & no problem of getting out of driveway with fresh snow. It corners better than a car but a little bumpy on aged asphalt, which I think its due to low profile tires.

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  BMW 2008 X3 - 2008 BMW X3
  By pat - March 2 - 11:21 pm

  This has been a great car! Minimal issues over the 8 years.

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  Fun fun fun - 2005 BMW X3
  By akobet - February 28 - 2:25 am

  After trading my 2000 3 series for a 2005 X3 3.0, I though that I would loose that BMW feel. This car is an excellent replacement for the old 3. The X3 is fun and crisp to drive. My only complaint on the feel is the automatic transmission. It feels weird though - not sure - it seems to downshift late, and then when it downshifts it holds gear longer than it should, sometimes bucking. I find Sports mode makes the car smoother.

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  X3 hums - 2005 BMW X3
  By Steve Coleman - February 27 - 8:59 pm

  The best looking SUV around. Tough interior that can take some abuse. Gas mileage a bit disappointing but with its very good performance, not surprising. Superior warrrenty makes maintenance easy. Sound system is excellent. Unlike older BMWs, there are ample drink holders and good interior storage.

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  X3 almost the Ultimate - 2005 BMW X3
  By Rusel - February 24 - 2:31 pm

  Before my X3 (3.0) Ive had Audis and Volvos. The ride of the X3 is firmer and definitely more responsive--and as advertised, fun to drive. It seems to perform every bit as well as my wifes 325. The interior may not be quite as refined as an Audi but it is designed well and has a fairly decent audio system. The all-wheel drive works great. I found it to be much more comfortable in size compared to the X-5 and other of the larger SUVs. So far a real winner.

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  The Fun Driving Machine - 2004 BMW X3
  By Jose A. - February 20 - 3:29 am

  The X3 is so much fun to drive! It handles like a sports car. Its quiet at highway speeds. Great brakes! It has a fantastic sunroof that extends to the rear seats that brings extra light into the vehicle, as well as a sense of added interior space. The xDrive works great on wet and snowy roads. The automatic transmission with the 5-speed Steptronic shifter is really fun on a twisty road. The 2.5 liter six cylinder engine provides the X3 with plenty of power. The leather seats are supportive and very comfortable. For someone who does not like monster sized SUVs, but likes great comfort, safety and AWD performance, the X3 is the perfect vehicle for any road.