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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  ONLY THE BEST - 2004 BMW X3
  By AVERAGE DRIVER - June 18 - 10:00 am

  What do I like most?-Where to begin! How about 4 years free BMW service, 8 air bags, all wheel control, an 8 speaker teriffic stereo/cd/etc. standard, turns like a cat, shifts one cant possibly feel, outrageous engine thats a delight just to listen to, quality abounds even in very hidden areas, a BMW team that will support you no matter what, and a GPS/emergency radio transmitter standard. I could go on but- just drive one. Theyll have to pry you out of it!

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  Perfect balance of between sport & luxury - 2017 BMW X3
  By Dale - April 14 - 2:22 am

  Bought my 2017 xDrive28 in October 2016 and have 10,500 on it in four months. Body integrity is exceptional and its both fun to drive and comfortable. I ordered it from the dealer and surprisingly it showed up in less than five weeks, being U.S. manufactured. Didnt go for a lot of options, no sunroof, leather or whatever but did get all the available safety options. Im 73 years old and recognize that my reflexes arent want they use to be so happy to get all the help I can. Very disappointed that automatic braking was not available. Had that feature on my 2015 Subaru Forester and I believe it should be mandatory on all new cars. Very, very disappointed with BMW U.S.A. s extended warranty procedures. I got talked into it at the dealer but decided to cancel it a few weeks later for a full refund as provided in the warranty manual. Just too expensive for what you get. Have gone round and round with the dealer and BMW corporate but still waiting for refund over three months after cancelling it. All and all Im happy with the car. Is it worth twice as much as a Forester? Probably not but at my age and still working full time I figure its just a well deserved present for myself.

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  BMW X3 2.5 - 2004 BMW X3
  By Mrtdono - March 18 - 10:00 am

  Back Door gives no Warning Light if not Secured. Beware! Alarm Functions are not programed. Veichle Options, should be standard. Other than that the SAV is OK. Not up to PAR for what 3 series comparison.

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  Its fun... - 2004 BMW X3
  By Mikeypny - March 18 - 10:00 am

  I have had the car for 5 days.. and beside being nervous about leaving it within range of other car doors, Its nothing but fun. Rides very well... handles amazingly, has adequate power-- - comfortable, relatively spacious, and has that new BMW smel--- what more could I want?

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  BMW X3 M Package - 2017 BMW X3
  By PLKitchen - February 13 - 4:57 pm

  The previous reviewers of the BMW I believe are incorrect. BMW still has a 4yr/50,000 bumper to bumper warranty but for 2017 the included service or maintenance is only covered for 3/36,000. That is the main reason I wrote this review to clarify that. I have only had the X3 for 3 weeks and only driven it 300miles mainly because I own a Nissan Leaf and the 2 year free charging ends for me at the new year so I drive my leaf whenever I can. I can say that I seem to really love the BMW. I like nice things and new technology and have had several loaded Kias in the last 5 years because I got a lot for my money and didnt care what other people thought. My 2015 Sorento SX was loaded and I do miss my remote start already which was not an option on the BMW for all the things you can get. But I will say that everything just feels and sounds better in the BMW. Is it $10,000 better I cant say yet but for me if I am going to pay $550 to $750 to own not lease a car it is worth it imo to love what you are driving. I did love my Optima SX with the 2.0 turbo and it was only $400 per month with 0% interest but sometimes you just need to fit something more than you can in just a rear seat pass thru. I really didnt do much research before I bought it on Black Friday and got $2500 off msrp and $1000 BMW rebate/cash/credit whatever you want to call it. So for the last 3 weeks I have been watching reviews and reading up and I can say I dont have any buyers remorse. The only thing I am used to is 0% with Kia and my Nissan but I guess 2.9% for 72 is the best BMW usually offers. I wanted the M Sport and a few other options. There were a lot of vehicles to chose from but only a few with the M sport package. I actually went in looking at the X1 because it really isnt that much smaller and the price was less. The 2018 X3 will be all new and probably larger to make it more different from the recently upgraded X1. I am happy to buy at the end of the current models cycle because hopefully all the bugs are worked out. The only X1 they had with the M sport was loaded with 2 packages I didnt want and was the great BMW astral blue but not my first choice. Nearby was the X3 I ended up with for only $4000 more and still over loaded but it had the 20" M sport staggered wheel package that just makes it look so much better. I checked the price of replacement tires because I dont want to pay $300 or more for a tire but found great options that are not run flats but will get a spare and take care of that down the road. I drive my cars close to the limit and I ride sport bikes and of course I have not driven the X3 even close to max because it is not even close to being broken in but what I have noticed is that when you push it just a little it seems fine and enjoyable but the next level it I think it will be not quite as enjoyable. Should I have gotten the 3.5i with the adjustable suspension maybe but at close to $56,000 there are a lot of other performance options out there. I think my biggest complaint will be with the 8 speed Auto trans instead of some of the dual clutch autos available. Manual is not an option for me because of other drivers in my family not to mention I prefer to concentrate more on my lines and braking etc. than shifting. In sport it seems to hold the gear to long and doesnt seem to read your mind and once it does shift its brisk but jerky. Maybe it will get better when it learns my habits but I think it will be in comfort or sport plus where you have to shift up or down yourself when I am alone. I think if the car is problem free I will keep it and add the Dinan computer upgrade dealer installed and doesnt void the warranty that adds over 40hp and 40 ft/lbs of torque at the wheels and get coil over suspension that I can slightly lower the X3 and have adjustable rebound dampening to make an even firmer but not to stiff of a ride. Another thing I like is I see a lot of X3s x1s and X5s but not to many with the M package or the nice rims. Mostly x5s so it looks different from most out there without customizing.

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  The greatest SUV from BMW - 2004 BMW X3
  By Pilotpaul13 - January 4 - 2:00 am

  It is an awsome car you must drive it