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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  X3 Fun - 2004 BMW X3
  By cindy fitzpatrick - October 9 - 2:00 am

  BMW has a real winner in the new X3. A slightly smaller version of the X5. Great gas mileage,plenty of cargo room,comfortable and all the luxury of a BMW expected.The cuurent warranty of 4 years 60,000 miles down to the tires is a real key in and drive no stress (free tow) if there is a problem BMW grand perk. The mileage counter onboard tells you when service is due based on your driving habits,counting down from 15,000 miles ! No more shop visits every 3-4000 miles ! The suspension is a bit stiffer than my last 328i but that is to be expected with this versatile SAV that is multi-functional with equal gas mileage.I will always own a BMW SAV in the future.

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  x3- good deal - 2004 BMW X3
  By fross - October 6 - 2:00 am

  This is a great value for anyone wanting higher ride than a sedan, a Euro import and fun car. Have had mine for a month and with the exception of a belt that needs to be tightened all is well (knock wood. Spend time with your salesman though... there are may variatons of the X3 and it wasnt until after delivery that I realized there were options I would have liked. On the other hand, do you need radio controls on the wheel, fog lights etc. I saved some $$$. Buy this car if you want this size suv... hands down its best deal out there

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  Puts the "U" in SUV - 2004 BMW X3
  By oldvanhalenrules - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Was looking for an AWD vehicle that had comfortable seats for long drives to Yosemite and Lake Tahoe. Aggressive (high residual) factory financing from BMW lease promotion made this the logical choice over the 325xi sedan or wagon, or competitors vehicles (yes, its a minivan more than it is a sports car). Interior materials are better than what should be expected in a "utility" vehicle. Pretty quiet at highway speeds. Looking forward to testing in the snow this winter. My X3 replaced a Jeep Cherokee I dont expect the X3 to go off-road. But with all maintenance covered for 4 years, I dont expect unforseen maintenance expenses, either.

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  Love my new X3 - 3.0 - 2004 BMW X3
  By Alansx3 - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I just picked up my X3 from Sonnen BMW. The car is perfect. It’s mystic blue, 3.0 automatic with navigation, xenon, park distance control, premium and sport packages, premium sound. Handles better than any other SUV I’ve tried and very similar to my 2001 330i. Really looking forward to taking it in the Tahoe snow this winter.

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  Love it so But I wish.......... - 2004 BMW X3
  By supaman - October 2 - 2:00 am

  My girlfriend and I recentley purchased an 04 X3 2.5i Auto.. We have had so much fun in our X3 and we have only had it for a couple months. This vehicle can do anything you want, and then some! We love driving it, even rock, paper, scissoring to see who will drive. Overall we are in line with most reviews you will read. Its a great vehicle, but watch that bottom line. Although from most measurables the majority of X3s look and perform very similar or the same, the prices are very very different.

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  This is an awesome car - 2004 BMW X3
  By akgski - September 29 - 2:00 am

  I am thrilled with this car. I purchased a 2.5 6speed manual which handles beautifully. There is plenty of power, and top notch performance. There is plenty of room for childrens car seats and the extras in back.

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  The Dream Machine - 2005 BMW X3
  By X3Man - September 28 - 6:36 am

  This is an awesome car. From the time you unlock it to the time you lock it and walk away, you are guarenteed sheer joy. The car has so many dependability control and saftey features that it allows you to spend time focusing on the comfort and entertainment. There is no shortage of that. The ride is not too stiff (improved in 05) and I like the interior (light wood = the best). The vehichle is very sophisticated if you equip it properly (please do). If you just want a dependable car to drive, there are others out there. If you will stand for nothing less than the best...name, engine, looks, entertaining and futuristic features, then equip one fully and join the club.

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  New Owner - 2004 BMW X3
  By synclair - September 28 - 2:00 am

  this is a fun vehicle that has a smooth ride. The interior is superub with an oustanding speaker system.

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  Great Car - 2004 BMW X3
  By inblack13 - September 28 - 2:00 am

  The X3 does everything perfectly and i love it.

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  I fell in love... - 2004 BMW X3
  By dantec - September 25 - 2:00 am

  There is really nothing I could want from my X3, that it does not offer. It handles roads amazingly, feels light like a feather in comparison to my moms X5... As usual the BMW in-line 6 reigns supreme. The power is very good with the 3.0, and can take out any Lexuss or other wannabe SAVs (they will try and challenge you..) easily... The NAV is great... Its pre-iDrive but still very very good by german standards (which are pretty low since we have MB & Porsche horrific navs)... Its great how it rememebers its previous position and flips up or down when you start the car...