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:
Showing 501 through 510 of 616.00-
Happy - 2004 BMW X3
By SUVer in SC - December 21 - 10:00 amCompared to my last car, Freelander HSE, the X3 is a dream. A quiet ride for the most part. A few distant squeaks associated with the panaromic moonroof. The cargo area is a good size for a small SUV.
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BMWs Super SUV - 2004 BMW X3
By VitorJoao - December 19 - 1:32 pmI owened a BMW 325 ci before I got my X3. I never thought I would be getting into a SUV, at least not for a while. Although, this car is incredible. It does everything you ask it to do, and then some!! The handling on the car is superb! I would even say better than my previous sportpackage coupe. Also, another plus is its enormous moonroof. A must have!!! The car is so great that my mom and sister had to get one.
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Best of Both Worlds - 2004 BMW X3
By MikeX3 - December 13 - 8:08 pmThe X3 is the best of both worlds, small and nimble and drives like a car, yet big enough to be practical and has one great all-wheel drive system. It is, by far, the best driving SUV Ive ever driven. Couldnt be happier with my purchase.
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Okkes review - 2004 BMW X3
By Okke - December 8 - 2:47 amGreat lively car to drive. It has lots of features but that makes the car a bit too expensive. Car looks smaller than it actually is, which for some people may be a disadvantage. Very easy to drive and handles more like a sportscar than a SUV. BMW calls it a SAV for that reason I suppose.
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BMW X3 - 2004 BMW X3
By skakumu - December 7 - 12:49 pmExperiencing a BMW for the first time, I was impressed. The sound and feel of the engine, the firm handling, and general ambiance of the vehicle. Taking it out on the streets is a thrill, taking it out on the freeway is relaxing. Those who say the ride feels too "harsh," thats understandable seeing what the philosophy of BMW is, to provide firm handling, no matter what. In terms of versatility, it is perfect for a suburban setting not too big and not too small. From a design point of view, the whole package is refreshing when many designs these days are "cookie-cutters" and do not have a design philosophy behind it. To sum up the BMW X3, simply great.
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What happened to the "MDX" - 2004 BMW X3
By Young Banker - December 4 - 11:19 pmI had my heart set in the Acura MDX until I drove the BMW X3 3.0. The car is so much fun to drive and stands apart from the other automobiles on the road. With a powerful engine and great cornering ability its hard for people to keep up with you. So far so good. I cant wait to drive on a long road trip!!
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Great Car!! - 2005 BMW X3
By Happy X3 Driver - November 27 - 12:50 pmI really love this car. If you are a fan of the squishy soft ride of American makes and lots of interior clutter marketed as luxury, this is NOT the car for you. This car is clean and uncluttered. It drives like a sports car! It is a little pricey, but so are its American "tank" cousins cleverly disguised as SUVS and IT IS a BMW with all the engineering superiority that comes with it!! The X3 is so solid! The steptronic transmission is outstanding in bad weather. It looks great and is truly a drivers car. I cant say enough about it. I love it!
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Great Car!! - 2005 BMW X3
By Happy X3 Driver - November 27 - 12:50 pmI really love this car. If you are a fan of the squishy soft ride of American makes and lots of interior clutter marketed as luxury, this is NOT the car for you. This car is clean and uncluttered. It drives like a sports car! It is a little pricey, but so are its American "tank" cousins cleverly disguised as SUVS and IT IS a BMW with all the engineering superiority that comes with it!! The X3 is so solid! The steptronic transmission is outstanding in bad weather. It looks great and is truly a drivers car. I cant say enough about it. I love it!
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Bring on the winter! - 2004 BMW X3
By Mizz Daizy - November 24 - 11:14 amComing off a Z3, I expected to be disappointed with the SUV experience. I was wrong. The X3 is fun to drive and handles incredibly. The interior is luxurious (more so than the Z3) and the features and options are just pure BMW. No words can describe the panoramic moon roof! This truly is the ultimate driving machine. Bring on the winter!
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Is the X3 just a smaller X5? - 2004 BMW X3
By jaredfeiger - November 19 - 2:00 amThe X3s performance is outstanding as you would expect from any BMW; however, the interior quality and materials are definitely sub-par for a BMW and come nowhere near matching the X5s much nicer and more expensive interior. Overall, I feel like the car isnt as solid as an X5 (the doors are lighter, it also feels much lighter when you drive it), although it handles very well. For $48,000 fully equipped, you should definitely get more quality for your money, but it is a good vehicle.
