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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  Just fantastic - 2005 BMW X3
  By Happy BMW Owner - September 16 - 12:33 pm

  I love this vehicle. If you like the squishy soft ride of a Cadillac or Merc and like lots of interior clutter marketed as "luxury", this is NOT the vehicle for you. The X3 has a clean, elegant, uncluttered look inside and out. It is so fun to drive! It handles like a sports car but is great! in the rain & snow. Just superior as far as engineering and performance. I never thought Id own a BMW... but I will be hard pressed to go back. It is a little pricey, but so are the American tanks cleverly disguised as SUVs. Nothing against American cars. The RX is simply for a different market. I looked at the Japanese SUVs as well and really like them too, but I fell in love with the X3.

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  4 months experience with BMW X3 - 2005 BMW X3
  By Paul S. Sandhaus - September 10 - 5:43 pm

  I was not thrilled with all the gadgetry I had to learn until one day I spotted the low tire pressure icon on the display. Sure enough, I had picked up a nail and the pressure in one tire was down about three pounds. The slow leak was not enough to keep me from driving to a repair place without changing the tire first. Without the display I might not have known until too late to save the tire. The vehicle is peppy and handles like a sports car even with the smaller 6- cylinder engine.

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  An Excellent Machine - 2004 BMW X3
  By Drew Manitou - September 1 - 10:00 am

  Will wait to see how this handles in the northern Michigan winter, but so far this is just a wonderful car that is fun to drive. The automatic is very smooth and quiet and the car handles beautifully. The gas mileage is really good--better than I expected. One issue: the sun roof drain tubes were defective and am waiting for the dealership to get replacement parts.

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  BMW does it again!!! - 2004 BMW X3
  By kohi - July 15 - 10:00 am

  I love everything about this truck. From its tight-handling to its panoramic sun-roof!! It drives like a dream....like a 325 on stilts. This is what separates this sporty SAV from the rest of the SUV pack. The interior is typical BMW - functional and not too flashy. There is enough room for a family of 4 with all their gear. Its not the most spacious, nor the most powerful, nor is it the most brutish SUV on the road. This is the perfect SUV for those who plan to drive (like most of us!) most of the time in the city.

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  BMW X3 - 2017 BMW X3
  By rtn - June 11 - 10:08 pm

  Only two things are worth mentioning: gas mileage on high way is about 24.25; I anticipated 28 to 30; front seat is a little uncomfortable on long trips. other than that we love the car.

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  This Vehicle Is Superb! - 2004 BMW X3
  By ballparkrogue - June 2 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is a perfect mix of class and sport. After reading Car & Drivers scathing review, I was apprehensive but this car drives great - smooth, comfortable, and intune with the road. 2.5 liters is all you need! BMW has really hit the ground running with this one.

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  If its what you want - 2004 BMW X3
  By ddavid - June 2 - 10:00 am

  3.0 engine rocks. Much better than 2.4. Not your standard luxury SUV-not bloated or soft. Cat-quick, great handling. Tranny smooth as butter. Interior materials superior. No junk. Tasteful. Sport setting on transmission works best. Seats wonderful. Only SUV my wife (411) and I (63) can both actually drive comfortably. Leather nubby but I like it. Stiff suspension but only feel it on really rough roads. On the highway it runs like a dream. Its like driving a sedan with a very large trunk. Had no intention of buying a BMW but after driving them all fell in love with it. Deserves a long look and long test drive.

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  X3 and I have one - 2004 BMW X3
  By quaddies - March 14 - 10:00 am

  X3: tall seat and handling. Why not M3 or Lexus? Or, as C&D mocks, leave the "sports car on stilts" and buy a wagon. Hey I want to sit a higher and enjoy sport handling. Some people get off on creamy leather, glossy veneers, bum warmers and dont want to feel anything -like say the road. It’s not the leather, veneer and truck feel of the X5 or Lexus that I want. I am from the BMW old school and not the fat cat who wants their BMW to be an ideal Lincoln. The wagon is great, but dont dismiss the X3 because it is not European. Europhiles state wagons are big sellers in Europe and the X3 is a nod to the US market. Wise up. UK presold their allotment for 2004.

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  Excellent - 2005 BMW X3
  By Laurie Aulicino - January 29 - 1:20 pm

  Drives like a dream. The inside is a little small but sufficient for a family of 4.

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  Very Happy - 2008 BMW X3
  By Tucker Smith - January 5 - 5:32 pm

  I bought this car with 77K on the clock. now at 86. I could not be happier; handles like a Porsche 911.