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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  2012 X3 M Fully Loaded WOW WOW WOW! - 2012 BMW X3
  By mouserdiver - February 3 - 4:55 am

  We are having an addition to the family so it was time to upgrade from the Mini Cooper. Baby number 3 is on the way. I have always wanted the X5 the one that seats 7. When it came out in 2007 I waited and waited so that I could buy a fully loaded used one. The one I wanted brand new was 90,000.00 but I was 22 and there was just no way at that age. Im 28 now, and baby number 3 on the way I went to my usual BMW dealership and saw the fully loaded X3 M. I thought. What the heck Ill just drive it and pretend I can have it. Its been a month and a half and I LOVE IT. I cant take corners in it like the mini but it will do. (I kept the mini anyway) Its luxury.

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  Great Car...So Fun To Drive! - 2007 BMW X3
  By bbimmer7 - January 9 - 8:31 pm

  Purchased my Platinum Bronze Metallic X3 certified pre-owned in 2010. Ive owned many cars, and exclusively SUVs (2 Grand Cherokees and a Toyota Highlander) since the early 90s and this is by far the best handling, best performing car Ive ever owned. It accelerates like a dream. If youre buying one CPO, purchase the extended maintenance warranty. Ive had several repairs after the "service soon" light came on, and they were all covered under the warranty. All around a great car, loaded with luxury features, and and exhilarating driving experience!

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  Great Choice - 2012 BMW X3
  By intejer - January 5 - 3:32 pm

  Ill preface my review in that this is my 3rd BMW. Each time Ive gone to find a car, I have done an exhaustive analysis with spreadsheets multiple test drives and comparison figures recorded. Lets face it, cars arent cheap and we should be happy with our choice after the deal is done and we drive off the lot. On each search, while the BMW wasnt the winner for all of the categories it had the best combination of features/performance and price that I was looking for. My advise, order one, and you can still work your dealers over and you can get a much better price -- even as good as one already built. Also work them on financing and get the deal you want youll enjoy the final x3.

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  Love the car but... - 2012 BMW X3
  By sgm2012 - December 29 - 7:53 pm

  This is our first 2012 BMW X3 35i M Sports Package. My husband and I love the car but it drifts right. Even on a flat road the car will veer to the right if you let go of the steering wheel. The dealership had it for a week and came back and said that this was normal for the X3s. Does anyone elses X3 drift to the right? Its very noticeable at high speeds but you can still notice it at lower speeds.

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  I love it but, it doesnt love me?! - 2007 BMW X3
  By rachaelmac22 - November 30 - 3:45 pm

  We bought my X3 two years ago, at a great price and with 38,000 miles on it. It is my first suv and not my last. I love this car... its fast, great looking and a great size (im 53) Only problem, it has been in the shop more then 8 times... thank goodness we got the extended warranty! New water pump, muffler, engine pistons and other misc items! If I didnt have the warranty and a loaner from my dealership I dont know what I would do. After almost 2 and a half years later, I am looking into a new suv (and not another bmw)

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  It cant get any better than this. - 2012 BMW X3
  By vhc - November 29 - 11:23 pm

  This is my 7th BMW and I couldnt be happier. Looks stunning. Drives like a sports car. Comfortable sports seats that hugs you. Its been 300 miles and Im still getting use to the fun. I had the older X3 and this is night and day. The old x3 drived like a truck and was not comfortable at all. The 2012 model is extremely smooth with its 7 gears.

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  the most fun to drive suv - 2012 BMW X3
  By serpal - November 7 - 11:18 pm

  so far 3000 miles of fun driving, no problems, excellent comfort and quality all around, my 5th bmw, great power

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  Im very picky and I love this car. - 2011 BMW X3
  By swalker1 - October 29 - 10:12 pm

  I drove my past car for 12 years because I never like anything else enough to buy it. I waited for this X3 to be available hoping that I would like it. I am so happy I waited. I Love It! I got it loaded with sport package, tech package, convenience package, cold package. I have 6000 miles on it and I havent had any problems. I do have a broken spring in a cup holder as someone else mentioned, but that is minor. I love all the technology and the comfort. I had a difficult time deciding what color to get I thought they could have had better colors to choose from. I got Mineral Silver with Beige Leather and I am happy with it.

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  Two weeks, four days old and in shop 17 days - 2012 BMW X3
  By jakepack - October 24 - 5:12 pm

  Production problems have bedeviled my 2012 X3. Continual drive train error messages/check engine light faults. I have driven a total of maybe 20 miles. It has sat in my dealers service area for 17 days out of the 18 I have owned it. My 5th BMW and quite possibly my last. I traded in a Q5 for this what a mistake.

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  Major problems with the 2011-BMW-X3 - 2011 BMW X3
  By thecriticsays - October 19 - 9:15 pm

  The vehcile is great when it works. I have had major problems with the 2011 X3, vehicle is less than 6 months old: 1-Engine coolant leak, cracked reservoir. BMW said its normal at first, then repaired upon insistance. 2-Drivers door does not open, broken cable. 3-Excessive brake noise and squealing, BMW says its normal. 4-Excessive wind noise from poor outside door seals, BMW says its normal. 5-Grinding window noise when closing/opening window. 6-Windshield wipers do not rest in their low position, they sit up. 7-Passengers side door was misaligned and sticked out, BMW said its normal, then attempted to fix upon insistance. All parts take 2-weeks to come !!!