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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  An Excellent Ride - 2004 BMW X3
  By Anu - September 23 - 2:00 am

  My experience with this vehicle has been outstanding. It is a SAV that drives and feels like a car. It has exceptional performance, manuevering capability and load of safety features. You just cannot go wrong with this vehicle.

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  Satisfied - 2004 BMW X3
  By wolfy - September 23 - 2:00 am

  I am enjoying my new X3. I like that I can go anywhere with my new X3. It is agile enough to manover in the city and ruged enough to go off road into the mountains. Very Satisfied, Thanks BMW for a great vehicle.

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  If you need or want AWD - 2005 BMW X3
  By Andrew - September 18 - 9:33 pm

  Try to find a vehicle out there with AWD that has the utility of an SUV and the handling of a sports car. Unlike the 3 series, it actually has a back seat. And, it sits up just high enough to give you a commanding view of the road. You get BMW handling and quality in a perfect sized package.

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  Fair Warning.... - 2004 BMW X3
  By 1st BMW & last - September 12 - 2:00 am

  Although we generally like the vehicles ride, handling, and the sporty design, the constant trips to the dealer (once a month for each month weve owned it) for fixing of constant defects clearly make this $45k car a waste of time money.

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  BMW X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By Scott Harley - September 8 - 2:00 am

  First BMW. We had a Toyota 4runner. The X3 is the perfect size car for my wife. Love the sunroof. fair gas mileage of about 27 on first trip. The car handles great. Fit and finish is very good...I cant find any rough spots yet or defects..except for the the transmission computer failure which was replaced in two days and they gave us a loaded 525 to drive. Lucky it kept running until we got it to the garage.

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  Happiness is driving a X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By Lusitan - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive SUV. Excellent handling under any weather conditions.

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  Alternator - 2004 BMW X3
  By oneballgnuu - September 4 - 2:00 am

  Well, we have had the x3 for 3 weeks now and we have already had the alternator replaced. I am not sure what is to come but outside of that minor problem BMW totally took care us. This was purchased moreso for my wife and I look forward to weekends when I get my turn behind the wheel. It handles very well and if you cant seem to get the finances together for an x5 this is the way to go! I am a die hard Subaru fan and I cannot wait to see what this car does in the dead of winter up in our mountain area. The all wheel drive was a huge selling factor along with the overall inside safety features.

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  Quite a Surprise - 2004 BMW X3
  By HarryX3 - September 4 - 2:00 am

  As soon as I test drove this vehicle I was hooked. The vehicle has plenty of pick-up, is very comfortable and visibility from the drivers seat is very good. Ive read alot of reviews on this car and many of them complain about the ride but my experience, so far, is that the ride is just right. After all its a BMW - my 01 3 touring rides just like it.

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  Love the X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By rogueb0y - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Had the X3 for a few months now. Zero problems/squeaks/rattles. Trans, cup holders, hatch, moonroof, AC, everything all work perfectly a few of you guys must have gotten bad ones. Bought it to go up to the mountains in the winter enjoy the incredible handling, brakes, visiblity, smoothness, stereo the rest of the year. Fits in the garage easily. Very comfofrtable to drive for long periods.

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  FIRST TIME BEEMER OWNER - 2004 BMW X3
  By beemergirl - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I just traded in a toyota corolla for my first BMW. I previously owned a Ford Explorer Sport. The ride is amazing. MPG isnt so bad - appx 20mpg. Definitely worth owning. Dealership was very helpful.