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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  Great to drive but safety features lag behind - 2017 BMW X3
  By daniel - January 5 - 10:35 am

  We bought drivers assistance plus package to include blindspot, lane changer warnings but they only activated at 35 MPH so driving locally do not work. The driver siide definitely has a blindspot on the left side but blindspot only works at the higher speeds and the navigation package was pre-requisite. All in all, a waste of $3,000.

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  GREAT AUTOMOBILE - 2004 BMW X3
  By PROFESSIONAL ENGINEE - December 19 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a great car for the X-3 (Honda CRV, EX, Automatic) and got a better car. Look anywhere, try any control, try nearly anything with this fine automobile and youll be thrilled at its quality and performance.

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  BMW X3 - 2005 BMW X3
  By Michael Moses - December 1 - 6:26 am

  Not only is it a great looking vehicle, it performs like A BMW should. Acceleration, handling,comfort and braking are exactly like the whole line of BMW vehicles. After driving all the competitive SUVs, which were like a "Vanilla ice cream cone", the X3 was like a" deluxe bannana split".

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  Hudson Valley - 2004 BMW X3
  By Sophie Carter - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Great Car along with BMWs Great Service

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  Fits the bill! - 2005 BMW X3
  By X-3ing - September 30 - 7:46 am

  I bought an X3 because where I live the roads are terrible and it snows. If you need an SUV, but love to drive a sports car, this is a good alternative. The all-wheel drive is amazing. And it is smaller than the X-5, which if you live in the city, is a pain to park!

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  X3 Owner - 2005 BMW X3
  By Brewer5 - August 16 - 1:33 pm

  I have owned the 2005 X3 for about a month and I have truly enjoyed the comfort and solid performance. The 3 liter engine is responsive with 225 horsepower. The interior is very comfortable, even with 4 adults, but could use more storage space. Panoramic sunroof is great on the 2 trips Ive taken with it. The automatic transmission has the ability to shift as a manual is a great feature when driving in the city. Overall very pleased.

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  Very nice SAV - 2005 BMW X3
  By RICH - August 12 - 2:30 am

  Handles better than any SUV,(SAV) Ive ever driven...Feels just like a car around turns, etc...Great in the rain and snow..Has that real road grippng BMW feel..Steerng and response are excellent and the brakes are great..Have a real safe secure feeling in it.

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  A drivers small sport ute! - 2005 BMW X3
  By Kevin - July 13 - 4:40 am

  We just recently had a baby and had grown out of our 330i. After looking at the crossover market and driving a few (Infiniti FX, Lexus RX, etc.) the Beemer won hands down on driveability and function. The SUV drives just like our previous 3 series, but has some decent cargo space and all wheel. We have a larger SUV family truckster and vowed to never drive a mini-van. So now we have the best of both worlds with the X3. A little pricey, but worth it if you want nimble utility.

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  Spec - 2004 BMW X3
  By dvl - June 19 - 10:00 am

  no problems so far, some doors noise & airconditioning on when starting the X3 but otherwise fine

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  My best ever car - 2004 BMW X3
  By dedal - June 19 - 10:00 am

  One of the best cars to drive in the Greek roads. I have a package of three cars in one! One limousine for driving in the town. One safe and fast car for driving in the highways. One offroad for havig fun everywhere.