2005 BMW X3

Good Daily Driver

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 3

This is a great all season driver's vehicle. It has good power and great safety. It's excellent even in moderately bad conditions. Overall quality has been excellfent. However, Maintenance can become quite expensive as it ages.

Eleven years going strong

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 4 Value Rating: 5

We purchase this 2005 3.0 X3 brand new. Besides its normal wear and tear and routine maintenance it has be by far the best and most reliable car we have had. We really got our monies worth, being with the military this car has been up and down the German Autobahn and cruising the Interstates in the southeast.

Worse Vehicle Ever!

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1 Safety Rating: 2 Technology Rating: 1 Value Rating: 1

Rides rough, lots and lots of repairs. I have had the moon roof repaired 2 times over 9k, new brakes, lots of electronic problems, water pump, radiator, heck the whole car has had problems. I only have 100k miles on the car. It has cost me a fortune.

LOONG ROAD TEST! 181K

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 4 Value Rating: 5

I have to say, I really love this vehicle. I have read many reviews about the poor quality, repair frequency and lack of comfort. I think if buyers are looking for the softer ride of a true luxury vehicle, buy a Range Rover. This little machine is still kicking butt at 181k! I have had the normal repair costs; tires, brakes, etc. The shocks and struts where changed at 175k. They were the originals! I think I have more than gotten my moneys worth. The only real complaint I have is the panoramic roof. It stopped working about 10k miles ago. I have a fix for it, just haven't done it yet. And the paint/stain on the interior. The thing is, I just drove a 2008 X5 and that problem still exists. I still gotta give my little 3.0, 6-spd manual, 181k mile Bimmer 9 outta 10. Handles like no other in rain/snow, darn good fuel economy for an all wheel drive (averages 23mpg) and with all those miles and the black obsidian paint, it's still a head turner.

Extremely poor reliability

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

This car has terrible reliability in 3 yrs I have spent nearly $10,000 in repairs. - two A/C compressor hoses - sunroof leak - air mass meter - all for O2 sensors - complete radiator replacement Do not buy this car.

Made Me A Believer

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

So, always wanted a BMW...finally bought one off a 3-year lease that was certified. My salesperson said that once I owned a BMW that'd it'd be the only car I'd ever own again..he was SO correct!! The handling is great for an SUV; just like a sports sedan. And, yes, the ride is bumpy. I've read that it's been improved after 2006. But I don't mind..because it handles so great in snow & rain. I've had gas mileage 35 mpg on highway. Of course, with A/C on and driving in city, any car can be as bad as 10 mpg, no exception to date. Even with gas prices predicted at $5.00/gallon, I'd rather be in something safe than a roller skate getting 40 mpg. Think about it!! Planning on keeping this.

First BMW ever!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

After my wife and I have bought the 2005 BMW X3 3.0i. We had no idea how different BMW's where compared to us having a toyota corolla and growing up with ford cars and hondas. At 82K miles we have yet to have any issues with our X3 3.0 aside from guzzling gas at an unexpected rate. But thats a given since we love to put it to the mettle with our 3.0i V6 on the high ways everyday we go to work, and we are on the highways a lot. We where surprised how a midsize SUV like the the BMW X3 3.0i can pack so much and have so many little surprises that you wont find out until you push it to the limit. It has ample enough room and yes the ride is rough, but this is a sports based midsize SUV.

Good

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

All around great car for design, reliability and comfort. Interior lacks a bit in luxury (for a BMW). Power to weight ratio also lacks a bit.

Lovin' it

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Love this car! Nothing to wrong with it..they couldve really made it more fancy in the inside for a BMW..its lacking. Stereo isn't great, again for a BMW.

62K miles and going strong

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Just had the BMW dealer do a full inspection of it and found nothing wrong at 62k miles! All I have done is change oil and buy new tires. The 6 speed manual allows me to have great performance but also allows to get the same or better gas mileage as any 2010 American or Japanese competitor SUV with 6cyl awd. Only difference is the required premium fuel, which is only like and extra $2 per fill up so who cares. Pretty sporty too, topped it out at 140mph before. Awd makes it handle corners and snow excellently.

120,000 miles later

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Consider this a VERY long term road test. Everybody loves their new car, but after 120,000 miles ours keeps getting better. It had some minor problems which developed under warranty and which were resolved while we drove new BMWs when ours was in service. Great in the snow, great long distance cruiser. Mpg annualizes at 21.7. All electrical stuff still performing well, gps probably ought to be updated but we don't use it all that much. Only possible drawback is it eats tires getting maybe 35k to a set.

New to BMWs

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

First time BMW owner, and so far impressed. Responsive steering, excellent braking, front seats very comfortable. Could have used more sound proofing for interior. Road noise and wind flowing across top noticeable. Tight fitting vehicle, no rattles. Titanium int. seems durable. Easy to handle. A head turner. Cargo area seems small with rear seats up.

Not happy

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 3

I had a 528i before this (loved it). I thought I wanted an suv and bought this x3 with both the sport and premium pkg. Not nearly the quality, Interior is cheap looking and black on black peels off. Head lights didn't stay aligned, and having them aligned was not covered by warranty. Keys remote doesn't always work and I have to lock it with key. I have taken the keys back to BMW four times to have them reset. What a pain. Fuse went out on auxiliary outlet and BMW says not covered by warranty (this fuse cost less than $1.00). The car looks ok on the exterior, but the sunroof rattles like it is broken, BMW says it is normal operation. Overall, this is a car.

Stiff ride

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

It is unbelievably bumpy and you will feel every seam and pebble in the road. The handling is great, though and braking is the best I've ever experienced. Peppy and plenty of power but at an expense (91 octane fuel) The leatherette seats are just awful, ugly and uncomfortable. Cold in the winter and probably hot in the summer. Get the leather. The wood and aluminum trim provide the only other classy touches to the interior. It's a head turner around town. Black sapphire is gorgeous in the sunlight.

Incredible SAV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had this x3 for 4 months and MAN, it's great. We own a 2003 325Cic, and the x3 handles and moves better. Stability and handling are just amazing, let alone the braking capabilities. The 5-speed auto tranny is just right and shifts smoothly, the sport program feels eager to go, downshifting and holding gears in the right moments and situations. The tiptronic manual program is great when you want to really drive. I would rather have a 6 speed manual, you lose invaluable torque with the automatic, but not a big deal. Cornering is just like a 3-series. The aggressive look is perfect, it tells BMW all around, love the style.

Not happy

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

This is my second bimmer, I realize it is not the luxury model of my 528I but the sunroof rattles, the fuses to my 12v outlets keep blowing,Interior black on black is peeling, none of these things are covered and I must pay for diagnostic to discover problems and then they aren't covered by warranty. I'm thinking about trading. Love the look, hate the quality.

Buy it!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We replaced my wife's 2000 528i with this beauty. I could not say enough good things about X3. If you are worried about gas mileage, or expecting soft Buick like ride then BMW is not for you. BMW is The Ultimate Driving Machine not a sofa.

There are better values out there

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

This X3 is a sharp car and drives like a 3 series sedan...this is a blast to drive. Outside of that, it gets less attractive. It isn't very big for an SUV (ie Doesn't carry a lot of stuff or people). The fuel economy for a V6 is horrible (maybe 17-18MPG?) Four passengers in this thing feels like too many. The trunk is tiny (can't fit 1 set of golf clubs across). And the interior features aren't stellar for a $40K vehicle.

Great Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

The 2.5 has been surprisingly zippy to drive. It is the best car on snow that I have ever owned. Very rough ride and poor fuel economy are my two key complaints. I've never had any significant problems and I have about 45,000 miles on it now. It had several nuisance problems while under warranty like rattles and problems with warning lights but nothing significant. BMW seems a little loose on their quality control, especially for the price. Overall, however, the car is excellent. I have noticed it is a head turner too. People still stop and look at it in parking lots and it is two years old.

Head turner but only adequate value

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

BMW X3 is the best SUV design on the road as attested to by the many copies springing up these days. The exterior alone sold me. Perfect size, perfect space, more car than truck-like, very open interior, very solid feel and very sporty. If you want to keep some of your youth but want room to haul a growing family, this is your SUV. One suggestion though: get the premium package (leather). The standard (non-premium) package feels like driving in a big styrofoam cup that's always rubbing you the wrong way and the sport package will likely make you sick on long drives. My major complaint is the price, esp. when compared with similar SUVs (Volvo XC90) that offer more.

The best SUV for the money

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We have owned our 2.5L X3 for over a year now and we could not be happier. This is an excellent crossover SUV.

Not the most reliable

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

Want to love my vehicle, but it was towed 8 days ago because it wouldn't start and service dept is still trying to figure out what's wrong with it. Has spent 30+ days in the shop since I leased it at the end of Aug 05, and has less than 12,000 miles. Multiple repairs, including replacement of belt tensioner and pulley (twice), parking brake repair, mold in A/C system at 8000 miles, transmission reprogrammed, key FOBs keep failing, hatch out of alignment, various rattles, sunroof malfunctioning, dash keeps going black while driving, airbag mat replaced. Too much of a headache for the hefty price tag.

Love Love Love Love It....

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I looked at the X3 on the advice of a friend who had one. I will never buy another car again. This is a fun, reliable car that is a blast to drive. It handles like any other BMW I have had the pleasure of driving. It is truly the Ultimate Driving Machine... the X3 is meant to be driven. I love the blue tooth option, hands free cell phone with my son in the car. It's great. An excellent choice for moms on the go.

Disappointed

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

The car is not built very well - it has developed all sorts squeaks, creaks and rattles. The ride is very firm, even a slightest road irregularity gives you a hard jolt. The cargo capacity is surprisingly low, although the car does not look too small. I would not buy this car again and would not recommend it to anyone else.

X 3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Nice SAV ride could be a little softer, great handling, good traction interior dash could use some improvement (looks) gas mileage ok. This is a performance SUV.

Fun to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car to drive a little bumpy but not bad. Fuel economy isnt as good as I hoped but better then others. Overall like the car funt to drive will probably buy another BMW.

Fun to drive, room to spare

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Buy the X3 if you are looking for utility and fun! I haul my dog and my wife's shopping bags almost daily. It is also my daily driver to work. I can get there in style and have fun with it. It has AMAZING handling. This SAV has good punch to it, too. The only bad thing I would say is the gas mileage.

Love it ....but..

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great to drive, well built, but way to complicated gadget wise. If one were to learn to operate everything this vehicle has without repeated references to the manual, one would be qualified to pilot a 747. Setting radio stations required over an hour of poring over the manual. Give me an AC system where I can set the vents and fan speed and not have the computer change it every minute. My husband was seriously considering buying one for himself, but has now changed his mind.

Blue Water~~

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I so love my x3~~had an x5 and felt it was bigger, slower and boxier. This is a fun car for everyone!

SUV like a sedan

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

If somebody doesn't need a roomy SUV X3 is a great choice. Very good performance and handling. Nice exterior design. Fantastic x-drive system makes it really safe on every road. Driving feels like being behind a sedan wheel.

Great car--except...

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car, except it is tight in the back with three adults. Drives perfectly, and handles more like a sedan then an SUV. This is a bigger and more fun version of the 3-series. Same great handling as the little 3 but with all the fun of an SUV. Haven`t tested it out too much in the snow, but I am looking forward to the challenge. 4 years free maintenance is ALSO great..

Pure fun and excitement

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A family of four, we live at 9000 feet in the Colorado Rockies. This vehicle has plenty of power, top end speed, and cornering ability. Very sure footed on ice and snow. The hill descent control works great on steep and winding snow packed roads. The cargo area, while small, holds a surprising amount of stuff. The xenon lights are great for illuminating elk and deer along the road and peeking around corners further than normal lights. It makes the 70 mile round trip to work everyday through a winding canyon a pleasure. I would highly recommend this car for the mountains. The body of an SUV and the soul of a sports car.

love my beamer

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Excellent overall performance, its dependable, reliable, gives great mileage on the highway for a suv.

Wish it used less gas

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Wow what a great car/truck/suv. I would expect it to get better gas mileage since it is based on a car platform. Awesome ride and handling and what an amazing sunroof. Got the red leather interior. Interesting no one has it so it looks sharp. Easy navigation system. Not that much room in the trunk area but certainly enough. Feels rock solid on the road and safe. Memory seating build into key fob has to be one of the best features along with heated steering wheel. Great sunroof. It sure holds its value. Hope this helps. Thanks

Goodbye Trailblazer, 4ever.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A pleasure to drive. Quick, nimble, safe, efficient, comfortable, sounds great, looks great, smells great. Better Me Walk is not so true. BMW For Life. If people do their research, they will know that the X3 has a stiff ride. It is a small performance truck. DUH!!!!!!!!

Nothing to get excited about

Performance: 2 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

This is a noisy, uncomfortable vehicle with nothing to recommend it except for sitting up high. Its power is ordinary; its ride is noisy and rough. It has a strange rattle in the sunroof. After all is said and done it is over-priced, too.

first time Beemer fan for life!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

G-friend turned me on to bmw! I wanted the utility space, high sitting position and a sport like performance. This car, like the write ups states, is the car to get! Only draw backs: the arm rests - slightly slanted downward my arm never finds comfort. The leg room seems a bit confining - however with all the adjustments it all works out! Gas fuel economy is not too bad if you are patient at 55 mph. I have clocked 29 mpg on the h-way! Usual combined city/ hway: 21 - 24 in a 3L engine with 224 hp - that rocks!

Fun, reliable and good gas milage

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Traded a Lexus RX300 for the BMW. The BMW is far more nimble and fun to drive. My gas mileage has been great, 18 to 20 in town and 25 to 26 on the highway. The BMW is not as quiet or luxurious as the Lexus but has more room behind the rear seat and the seats are more comfortable (still pretty hard though). My only complaint is that the interior is dfficult to keep clean. The dash and synthetic seats look tough but show every spec of dust. Advice: don't get the black interior.

X3 Rating

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The only objection I have to this vehicle is the need to use premium fuel. However, maybe that's necessary because of the outstanding engineering.

Great SUV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The BMW X3 has great styling and sporty ride. I can't wait to drive it in the snow.

My first BMW!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I waited a LONG time for this BMW..I wanted a smaller suv, always dreamed of owning a BMW, and fell in love with the X3 the first time I saw it. It's great looking, but I never expected it to be SO much fun to drive! This is my dream car. Gas mileage? Not bad... but the ride and handling alone have made me a BMW owner for life. Excuse my excitement, but every time I get into my X3, all I can think is....."I'm driving a BMW..finally!"

X3 3.0

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Had a 325 sedan years ago which was perfect but, with family needs, I needed a bigger car (Navigator which I still have and use). But I had to get back to the BMW 3 series. The X3 seems like a perfect marriage of many worlds - its large but its compact, its fun but its safe, its fast but gets decent mileage, its a single passenger vehicle that is also for a family, its well made but not outrageously priced. The car feels like I'm glued to a track. The engine sounds are great. I love it.

sporty suv

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I traded in my Trailblazer for a more fuel efficient car. I love the stiff handling. Almost as if I am in my own personal roller coaster. The leather seats hug the driver and the simple yet classy interior make the driver feel like he is in the cock pit of a sports car. Love my new ride and find the engine to be quite responsive with decent gas milage

X3

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The X3 is a very fun to drive SUV. More carlike in its attitude with great traction in rain and snow.

X-3 RIDES LIKE A TRUCK

Performance: 3 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I now have 25,000 miles on my Bmw X-3 AWD with the 3.0 engine. The reliability is excellent and i have had no maintenance problems. The ride of the car is the big issue. I have this as a leased vehicle for 36 months and I can hardly wait for the 36th month. I have even tried to trade this car for a different BMW at the dealer but getting out of a lease is too expensive. The car rides like a truck-especially in the rear seat. I feel sorry for those who have to sit back there so I usually take a different car if anyone has to sit back there. The leather seats in the rear are uncomfortable too. The people in the rear are bumped up and down even on smooth roads.

Best mid-size SUV yet

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I decided to replace my 2-yr old Jeep Liberty with a sportier SUV, and found the perfect choice with the X3 3.0i. It is the perfect balance between function and luxury, not as soft and plush as the Lexus and not as utilitarian as the Subaru Forester. Handles like a BMW 3-series and has the hauling capacity of the Jeep liberty.

Great, reliable, and fun.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It is a wonderfully fun car to drive yet still is reasonable in size, fuel economy, and features. The 2.5-liter engine can be a bit underpowered but most of the time gets you around with plenty of power to spare. Fuel economy is great for the type of vehicle and interior design is wonderful. If I could bash on one thing it would be that the interior be a little quieter other than that the car has great visibility and can fit five comfortably it's a great buy. It of course drives like a BMW too so why not buy it.

Besy Performance SAV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Outstanding Ext./Int. design and with one of the best 3.0 engine in the world

New for 2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Although it has not been publicized, the 2005 X3 got a completely new suspension making it a much smoother reider than the 2004. Mine has the standard suspension and it is hard enough. The choice of tires is also important and the OEM Michelins ride far better and soother than the OEM Bridgestones which were rated as less than safe in the wet by Tirerack. Note that the cars are delivered with less than perfect alignment and when checked at an independant source, it was found so out of alignmemnt that it took the dealer hours to realign under warranty. Other than that the car has performed flawlessly and the assembly quality is better than on the X5, very much Austria built! Great car.

Stiff Ride

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

very stiff ride without sport package. I wonder if the tires make a difference. Mine has Michelins.

nice for an suv

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I traded a 3 series for this car and the extra space is great. I miss the handling of my 3 series but I like the compact nature of this SUV. Highly rec not getting the sport package as it is way too stiff. I also feel that this car, even with the 3.0, is not as powerful as it should be. We are a BMW family and it is hard to be fair comparing it to a sedan, but it is great for our growing family. I also like my installed DVD's in the headrests.

I'll keep it

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

Performance and quality top notch. Ride rough on rough roads.

Nice Little Beauty

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I also have a 2004 330i, so I was expecting my little X3 3.0 to be a smoker too. Well...I know its not a fair comparison since it is encumbered by some extra weight and the drag of an all-wheel-drive system. I was just expecting a little more POP. Nevertheless, this the most fun to drive and nimble SUV I tested. Definitely handles like my sedan and gives me the same sporty feel. And - without a doubt in my opinion - the best looking SUV on the road - well...except for maybe the X5.

I Love It!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had my car for 6 months and continue to love it every time I get in the car! I had two 3 series before the 3.0L X3 and I loved them, but this car is wonderful! It's sporty yet luxurious.

My X3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great car. I love SUV's. My earlier car was a Ford Explorer. This smaller vehicle is far superior for the city driving I do. I don't particularly like the fact that I have to use premium gasoline, but with the good fuel mileage I get it's really not that much more expensive to operate. It handles wonderfully and is fun to drive.

WOW

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

this car handles wonderfully. We had a huge snow storm, and we all felt safe in our X3.the interior of the car is very nice. We have owned Saabs,Hondas,Audis,and Mercedes, and we have never had a car this good.We will commit our car business now to BMW. Also the dealership was very nice to us, and gave us a great price on the car

First Impressions are lasting

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Recently traded an 98 Infiniti I30 for the X3. Always driven sedans but the X3 sold me on its practicality, fun to drive factor, and design. Solid feeling, spacious, engine growls!, perfect height for my 5' wife. Expensive but worth it. Very impressed!

Super Mid Sized SUV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

We traded a Mercedes ML 500 for an X3 3.0 a month ago and couldn't be happier with the change. The X3 handles fantastically and is a blast to drive. It has the tight finish quality that the American made Mercedes lacked and it carries as much cargo as the ML. Ours was delivered with a faulty navigation computer, but this is being fixed and it doesn't affect the operation of the car. Our only wish is that we bought the X3 sooner!

Best Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Rode very well. Perfect amount of horsepower.

BETTER THAN THE REST

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Really love my X-3. It is the right size for me. I hate large SUV's and the other SUV's in the size category can be seen everywhere!! I went to the mall one day and came out only to find five Black Infinity FX's in the same row!! Love the look of the X-3. I get alot of stares. The power is perfect and I can still park in all garages. Quality of the craftmenship has been great. Buy something else if you want ugly styling or an SUV that nearly everybody has(i.e the Lexus.) This is my first BMW and I won't be going to any other brand in the future!!!

Great car to drive

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I used to drive an Audi A4 and was unsure how the transition to a SUV would be but the X3 has not let me down! It is wonderful, fun, comfortable and handles well. For those of you looking for a truck that drives like a car, this is the one for you!

Pretty good - a few faults

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great drive and awesome performance! Had some problems with CD player and some interior finishes. Don't lock yourself out - no way to open the doors without a key or being towed to dealership for reprogramming. I had to break my own rear window to get into my car when I locked myself out.

The little SUV that does it all.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great little all around fun drive. It can haul my wife two large dogs and me and still have room for garden plants. With the fold down back seats and an open sun roof my wife can visit most of the garage sales in our area without having to stop to unload.

Great SUV!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had my '04 X3 for about a year and I absolutely love it! Fun car to drive, very reliable, great maintenance program, handles great in snow and rain and nice peppy engine for merging onto highways. It sure beats the VW I sold to get the X3!

X3 BMW Beyond Expectations

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I just turned 19000 miles. My gas mileage in light to moderate traffic is consistently between 20 and 21 mpg. On the road the mileage is consistently between 26 to 27.5 mpg. The handling is great; few cars handle this well! I think the 2.5 is enough power and transmission shifts nicely. I live in mountainous country and the 2.5 is just fine on steep grades at altitudes from 4000 to 9000 feet. It is great in the snow, on wet roads and even muddy conditions. The X-drive works almost instantaneously. You can spend more but I don't think you could buy anything better. No I don't like the clutch and break pedals so close together.

Happy but Sore

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Have had this car for three months, and so far absolutely no complaints other than a very harsh ride with the sport package. Believe them when they say it is harsh!! This is not a problem at all on regular roads, but uneven pavement/ dirt roads/ speed bumps, etc are brutal. Good handling makes it worth the sacrifice, maybe. Navigation system is a fun feature, although inputting the destination is a little time-consuming. Some passengers have commented that it is difficult to get in and out, although I have had no problem. Very fun commuter vehicle overall, looks great, and has a nice cargo space as a bonus!

Beemer, but a step down?

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I also own a 745li. This is absolutely nothing like that, of course. If you are looking for a low priced, quality, but not to any extent luxurious suv, get the X3. It is tremendous in the snow and conditions like that. The navigation system is top notch. It is extremely easy to operate, and works to perfection. DO NOT GET LEATHERETTE SEATING, I have leather and that is not comfortable either.

A nice all-in-one package

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

She wanted the height and the all-wheel drive of an SUV and I wanted the fun and spirited drive of a convertible sports sedan. The BMW X3 exceeds all of those desires. The driving qualities are second only to that of the BMW and Audi sports sedans, far better than any of the other SUVs we tried. Plus, it has the added versatility of a deceivingly large cargo space and an excellent all-wheel drive system. To top it all off, the panoramic sunroof makes it feel like a convertible. You'd be hard pressed to find a more versitile vehicle. Having seen the 2004 and 2005 models, the issue of interior build quality appears to have been dealt with. The X3 provides good value.

Bimmer

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car, owned 5 months now, typical bimmer quirks-power locks have acted up, passenger side rear view stopped working when putting car in reverse. And, of course, I could care less since this is the best performing car for it's size i have ever driven. I love it. Of course I want more power, but this puppy is ample for sure.

Fun in the Sun

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very good experience. Excellent handling and a safe drive in snow & ice. I have about 5000 miles on the car and had no problems whatsoever. This machine is finely engineered and does not remind me that I am in an SUV, except through its amazing x-drive and a high seating position. In addition, with the high residual value and low leasing rates, this car is a steal, especially compared to similarly priced cars.

Good Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun to drive great car for running around, easy access to trunk to throw things in like a 5th door.

fun car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Maybe not the most practical car of all time (especially if you need a lot of cargo space) but has all the features I want. It is really fun to drive while at the same time providing some of the features of an SUV -- all wheel drive and a good view of the road. Handles a lot better than any other SUV I've driven, including the X5. Back seat is big enough to seat adults comfortably, which is not true of all the competition (e.g., Lexus). And I love the huge moonroof.

Our First Bimmer

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Our car is new, so my review is based on first impressions. The BMW X3 3.0l, is a great SUV that offers many standard option. I find the vehicle easy to drive and handle, this coming from someone who has always driven small sedans. I love the moonroof (very big) and the car key memory feature. I only have to open the car with my personal key, and the car readjusts the seat and the mirrors to my personal settings. My one con would be that the interior would look better with more wood trim then what is available.

Best I've Owned

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Looked at the 2.5 in the 2004 model. Waited and bought the 3.0 2005 model which included more options and priced better this second model year. This is an SUV that drives like a sedan with plenty of storage/hauling room in the back. I am very happy with the interior quality also. The handling is great... was amazing during the winter months. Would own two of these! Not only does the X3 hug the road, handle great, have great pick-up, but it is sooo much fun to drive. If you are hestitant to buy this, don't be.. it will not disappoint.

Great Crossover

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Great performance from BMW as usual. Handles just like a 3-series. Fantastic brakes and road feel.

BMW X3 3.0

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have 1000 miles on the vehicle. Not a single problem til now. The sun roof is gorgeous and unique. Except the black bumper, the exterior design is the best in the segment, if not among all SUVs. I find people checking my car all the time. The performance is great for an SUV. Very confident drive in foul weather, rain sensing wipers and adaptive xenon lights help a lot. I do not have the sport package and I find the suspension sporty and comfortable. The transmission has excellent responses with the sport mode, however downshifts are late with the regular mode. And it is not expensive, I get 18-19 mpg, not bad.

X3 is worthy of the BMW name

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

If you are looking for an SUV that is big enough to haul some serious stuff, yet corners and handles well enough to keep a smile on your face, then this is the vehicle for you. The suspension keeps the car from rolling in the corners, and the traction and stability control (both standard) keep everything firmly planted. There is a "sport" suspension package available, but I didn't get it. The 6 speed manual is the slickest I've ever driven in an SUV - it's very well matched to the in- line 6 cylinder. The engine is sweet too, with plenty of low rev torque. I've owned 7 new very nice sporty Japenese SUVs and liked them all. But after driving the BMW X3, I don't think I will ever go back.

Practical SUV and a joy to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I shopped around for about a year and finally settled on the BMW X3. I would recommend the panorama sunroof and if you ride bikes, get the trailor hitch. No need for ski rack because skis fit very easily in the back. I'm getting between 20-23 mpg with regular gas. For little less than 35,000, it's a great SUV.

Awesome

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Had the car less than a year. With my previous car I needed a back support to drive long distances. With the X3 I arrive at my destination fresh and ready to enjoy. It is amazing. The driving experience is as advertised - fun. We purchased the car because of its size, but strangely enough we have used it to move furniture, and other bulky items. so the car performs on many levels. What is the most amazing - people actually think i paid more than the final negotiated selling price. This is value.

Solid fun ride

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The X3 is an amazing ride. It is fun to drive and easy to handle. It has a smooth ride like a sedan. The cabin is comfortable and has a lot of neat fratures. We have had other SUV's in this class and they do not compare.

Not as pleased as I thought I would be

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 4

When we bought the BMW X3 (our first) we were very pleased with it. As we drove it and got in and out of it, we were disappointed. They put a stupid ridge that gets in your way when you try to get out of the SUV and you have to lift your feet up or trip. Same as getting in. It's also hard to see out of when you are backing up. Too many blinded spots and the passenger's mirror moves down when you put the SUV in reverse which can cause you not to see that well. It is a stiff ride and god forbid you hit a speed bump too fast. We bought the BMW X3 for the leg room, since I'm 6'4", because I can extend my legs. Would I buy the BMW X3 again, NO.

Fun to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is extremely fun to drive. Even with the 2.5l, the vehicle accelerates nicely. Handling is all BMW. While the interior is sparse, it is functional.

Another BMW Winner

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We moved from a 3-Series to the X3 and really didn't miss a beat. The functionality of the X3 was the biggest reason for us: hauling kids, dogs, hockey gear, ski and snow boards, groceries, etc. I miss the ride and better grade materials from the 3-Series however and plan to order the new 325xi and give the X3 to my husband! BMWs surpass all other cars we've owned with exceptional service, reliability, safety and incredible handling and braking. The one thing I'd change about the X3 is the low hps in the engines. With all the competition out there, surely BMW recognizes the need to boost the power without boosting the cost. It shouldn't cost an extra $6K to get the 3.0.

BMW X3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Of the more than dozen new cars that I have owned; the BMW X3, 3.0 is the finest automobile that I have purchased. My first thousand miles have been a shear joy. If your looking for a car to get you and the family around town in, no matter what the weather is outside, then consider the X3. It has the accolades that you would expect in a BMW, (handling/performance, and quality). The X3 is a combination of cars, the sports sedan, and the SUV. BMW calls it SAV, (sport activity vehicle). However, if your looking to go off road then this my not be the SUV or SAV that your looking for. I don’t think it is “Trail Rated.”

BMW X3

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I really liked the BMW X3 because it was the perfect fit for a city person who somtimes goes out into the country. It is comfortable on the road, had plenty of nice features, and it drives like a BMW should.

great little suv

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

First suv I have ever own. I was not a fan of suvs, but I love this vehicle. I like the size. It's easy to drive the best handling and turning radius I have ever had in a suv or truck. It drives like a small car, rides a little stiff but not unbearable, the same as any sports car. I love the interior layout simple, elegant, straight forward, good radio, and great seats. Gas milage is better than I thought I am averaging about 18 after the break in period, mostly city driving too. Reliability has been reat so far I can't imagine driving anything else

pauline's bmw

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Exciting car, fun to drive, took it cross-country starting with only 500 miles on it and it performed admirably.

the bmwx3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Absolutely a wonderful road care, in storms, weather just hugs the road and humes right along. This is an auto atits best.

I Love This BMW!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When I was 20 (19 yrs ago) I bought a used 1973 BMW 2002 and I loved that car. Since then I have owned many others but the most fun to drive with the most serious technology behind it is my 2004 BMW X3 3.0i. It takes curves at full throttle like a race car without any roll/worries. I just love to drive it. It is also a very comfortable car with a very nice fit and finish. This is a 3 series that has been given the blessing of X-drive and DSC and again it is a pure joy to drive (this vehicle was not designed to just haul your family around). I again am reminded why BMW has the slogan "The Ultimate Driving Machine". I would recommend an X3 to anyone who enjoys spirited driving!

Love the sporty X3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

An incredible machine, expensive for the interior room, but didn't buy it for cargo space. Have put 7,000 miles on it in 6 months, absolutely no trips to the dealer for any issues whatsoever, unlike two of my friends who bought VW Toureags. Mine is fully loaded, including the sport package which does make it stiff, but that really smoothed out at about the 4,000 mile point. It is a joy to drive, especially here in Germany, and pull compliments out of even the most staid Germans for the great design. Again, it was pricey compared to many US models, but compared to the X-5, with the same interior space, etc, I believe this car was a bargain. Would buy another in a heartbeat.

Its a BMW

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Traded in a 2003 330xi with 37,500 miles on it, for the 2005 X3 cause I needed more room. But still wanted AWD with X-Drive. Its a good safe SAV, but not a sedan. I would like it to have more power. I hope they put the 255hp Eng.in it soon. If you need a SUV thats Fun to Drive "Its a BMW"

unsurpassed mechanical marvel

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

From the moment I sat on this sports UTE. I knew there was something special about this vehicle.

Fun to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun to drive. Inspiring handling, braking and acceleration. Great looking interior and exterior. Sure it's a little expensive but well worth it.

Wunderbar

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Solid German build quality, superbly beautiful paint quality, reliable transportation, BMW expert service, decent fuel mileage, incredible sunroof opening which is the largest I have ever had, very comfortable and heated seats with (in my case the necessary) lumbar support, a wonderful stereo with rich low tones and crystal clear high tones, rich light wood accents and my wife’s favorite feature, a heated steering wheel. This winter, we had to go to northern Ohio to pick up our son from college and despite sub zero temperatures, massive snow and seemingly impassable roads, the X3 handled it all like a genuine off road 4 wheeler in spite of all its sophisticated amenities!

There's a lot to love

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

There really is a lot to love about the X3. It handles beautifully, looks great and has just enough zip to get me to my boys baseball games on time and in style! I'd say overall I'd give it an A-.

Excelent small SUV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Its a small SUV and easy to maneuver drives & runs like a sports car and function as an SUV. Luxury & style for younger drivers. Its not a box on wheels its an X3

Fun fun fun

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After trading my 2000 3 series for a 2005 X3 3.0, I though that I would loose that BMW feel. This car is an excellent replacement for the old 3. The X3 is fun and crisp to drive. My only complaint on the feel is the automatic transmission. It feels weird though - not sure - it seems to downshift late, and then when it downshifts it holds gear longer than it should, sometimes bucking. I find Sports mode makes the car smoother.

X3 hums

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The best looking SUV around. Tough interior that can take some abuse. Gas mileage a bit disappointing but with its very good performance, not surprising. Superior warrrenty makes maintenance easy. Sound system is excellent. Unlike older BMWs, there are ample drink holders and good interior storage.

X3 almost the Ultimate

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Before my X3 (3.0) I've had Audis and Volvos. The ride of the X3 is firmer and definitely more responsive--and as advertised, fun to drive. It seems to perform every bit as well as my wife's 325. The interior may not be quite as refined as an Audi but it is designed well and has a fairly decent audio system. The all-wheel drive works great. I found it to be much more comfortable in size compared to the X-5 and other of the larger SUVs. So far a real winner.

Great SAV...

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Handles like a 3 series BMW..Great brakes, steering , etc..Typical BMW feel..Panorama Moon Roof is awesome..Excellent in bad weather, especially wet roads..Went through 15 inches of snow with ease..

This is a BMW?

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 4

When reading this rating, know that I am comparing it to other BMWs. I was greatly disappointed in pretty much everything, especially after driving a 330ci. The X3 was a rough ride, the manual transmission felt empty, the automatic just wasn't that impressive. The quality of the vehicle itself wasn't up to the usual level BMW offers. The only thing that reminded me that I was driving a BMW was the symbol on the steering wheel.

Fun to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We wanted to buy a Lexus RX 330, but we decided to test drive the X3 as well. We were so amazed by the drive and the performance that we changed our mind. X3 gives you the peace of mind while driving, some undescribable sense of safety, and it has enough power to satisfy you under almost every road conditions.

BMW X3 3.0i AWESOME RIDE!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Drives just like a sports sedan. Handles curves great, smooth as butter and very pleasing to the eye.

Great Car!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I really love this car. If you are a fan of the squishy soft ride of American makes and lots of interior clutter marketed as luxury, this is NOT the car for you. This car is clean and uncluttered. It drives like a sports car! It is a little pricey, but so are its American "tank" cousins cleverly disguised as SUVS and IT IS a BMW with all the engineering superiority that comes with it!! The X3 is so solid! The steptronic transmission is outstanding in bad weather. It looks great and is truly a drivers car. I can't say enough about it. I love it!

Great Car!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I really love this car. If you are a fan of the squishy soft ride of American makes and lots of interior clutter marketed as luxury, this is NOT the car for you. This car is clean and uncluttered. It drives like a sports car! It is a little pricey, but so are its American "tank" cousins cleverly disguised as SUVS and IT IS a BMW with all the engineering superiority that comes with it!! The X3 is so solid! The steptronic transmission is outstanding in bad weather. It looks great and is truly a drivers car. I can't say enough about it. I love it!

BMW X3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 7th BMW and currently my "winter BMW." I drive a Z4 3.0 most of the year (with Dunlop winter tires for the winter: just in case I'm caught out without the X3). The X3 drives like the last 3 series sedan I owned (325i) and totally unlike any SUV. The stock Pirelli all season tires are somewhat of a compromise in the snow and on ice, but the X drive makes up for it. The trade-off is the dry weather handling, which is "standard 3 series." I would not consider the 18" wheels, because of all the reports I've read and the fact that there are too many pot holes in Mass waiting to bend big rims. If you want a great combo, go for the Z4 and X3, which will exceed any one car's performance.

Safe, fun, good looking

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

With this car I have yet to have a backache. I have the basic X3. People think that the car cost 10k more than what i paid for it - even without leather seats. Turning corners is a rush especially feeling very secure with the vehicle. Can't rave enough about the steering. My 2.5i is enough.

Driving for fun

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

BMW got the X3 just right, this car is just the most fun to drive! This compact SUV is just right the size, unlike some of those oversized monsters that hog the road, including it's oversized big brother the X5. The drive is quiet and very comfortable, and the peformance is thrilling, this baby drives! The X3 is a true BMW, the styling is a little conservative but the reeks of BMW confidence that does not need to impress, no vulgarity with this car, it does its job with style and delivers results that BMW drivers expect.

Love my little SUV!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I just love this little SUV! Everyone who sees my X3 asks why I don't have an X5, very snobbishly. The fun part is when I get to reply that I do. Well, it's my husband's car. I had to drive his X5 while we shopped around for my car and I have to say I did not enjoy driving the X5 it was very hard to drive. It was a work out to try and turn this tank of an SUV the X5. My husband loves his X5 & all it's manly power. The X3 is very nimble and very easy to drive. It is the ladies' BMW SUV. And my two small children love that the sunroof opens all the way back over their car seats. The X5 is bigger but the sun roof won't do that. Only con is small interior space. Mommy's cool car!

Disappointed! BMW X3

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 4

Nice styling and handling. Poor fuel economy. Extremely cheap looking interior. Driving the X3 makes me feel that I am driving a 'Low End" BMW. (i.e. BMW 318). It does not feel like an introductory level SUV. It feels like a "Poor Man's Bimmer"!

Disapointed! BMW X3

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 4

Nice styling and handling. Poor fuel economy. Extremely cheap looking interior. Driving the X3 makes me feel that I am driving a 'Low End" BMW. (i.e. BMW 318). It does not feel like an introductory level SUV. It feels like a "Poor Mans"Womens Bimmer"!

Fun to drive!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I moved up from a Subaru Forester, which was a great, reliable little SUV, but no where near as much outright fun as the X3. The X3 goes exactly where I point it, on curves and straightaways. It accelerates smoothly and responsively, with a nice engine roar. The only drawbacks are a rear cargo compartment that could be roomier, and a rather clunky exterior design that you either love or hate. Fuel economy could also be improved. But none of that matters too much to me because of the funI' having behind the wheeel.

Glad I Waited For 05

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 05 X3 3.0 comes in at around $2,500 less than the 04 version. Because the MSRP stayed the same, but the moonroof is now standard and the auto tranny is now a no cost option. In 04 those 2 cost about $2,500 combined. Yea, the ride is a bit stiff, but no worse than the truck I traded. Yet with the X3 there is no body lean in turns. Cornering is so much fun now, not like my wallowing truck. Gas mileage is already better (only 500 miles so far) than my old V8 truck and should get better as the engine loosens up. Even in regular drive mode it is spirited, in sport mode WOW, really quick! Great in the snow as well. I negotiated $1,750 off vs an Edmunds target price of around $400 off. Sweet!

Very nice SAV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

Amazing X3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

We purchased the X3 as a familly vehicle. We regularly transport our 2 (young) children in it. The reason we chose it is that we do not need a third row yet and we wanted as much as possible to get a vehicle that handles like a car without getting a station wagon. As you can imagine we also wanted at all costs to avoid the dreaded van. The X3 is just large enough not to feel cramped and yet remin nimble for city driving. The build quality is excellent; however the texture of the dash is questionable and the door handles could stand to look less like they were made in China. Handling is simply amazing: the truck handles like a (sports) sedan. We have found it comfortable (no sports package).

My Review

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have recently gotten this vehicle and I love it! I had 2 3 series before this X3, and I can't tell the difference in how it drives! It is still low enough to the ground to not feel like you're in an SUV. It handles well and is very comfortable. The design is great. I love it!

Not bad for the second year

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Really like the car but certain interior materials should be of better quality. Rear visibility is poor so get the park distance control. The premium package is a must. Cold weather package is a must if you live in cold climate. Exterior is well thought out with no painted surfaces on the lower part of the body. Storage space is lacking. If you have an iPod get the connector installed. The bluetooth does not work with the Motorola V710 phone with Verizon Wireless. There are rumors of a software fix.

New to BMW and loving it!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great driving experience. Respectable power on 2.5 liter 6-speed. Feels like more power than what it's rated at.

BY ENGINEER

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I traded in my 04 X-3 for this 05 - and yes, I like them that much! Once you get hooked on the outstanding build quality nothing else compares. And the performance of this turbine smooth 3.0 engine coupled with so many built in occupant safety features puts this SUV way ahead of any other choices I reviewed. Sit in one - don't even drive it - look around then turn the key on and watch it come to life just waiting for you to guide it and show what you want. It's there for you and years from now it still will be and with one of the highest resale values on the market. Guess you can tell I like this ride. Take one out - get close to it and you'll want to write something too.

Looks and feels good

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

For a combo of city and rural driving where snow is sometimes a factor, X-3 was the choice for me. So far, it performs reliably. Lots of fun to drive, for an SUV. Roomy, but not impossible to park in the city.

"Everything"

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After years of waiting for just the right time, I have finally purchased my first BMW. I must say the X3 automobile is everything I imagined it could be. With just under a thousand miles total, I have found the car to be responsive in every aspect of driving. The gas milage continues to exceed the norm making the driving experience even more fun. For those of you waiting as I did, wait no longer, this automobile is "everything" you imagined it could be!

Just fantastic

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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 I'd 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.

Just fantastic

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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 I'd 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.

Awesome SUV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We liked the first one so much that we went out and got another. Different colors of course.

Excellent

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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

Driving the Best

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owner Mercedes M Class, and Porcshe 944 as well as first 64 Mustang...needing an SUV due to reisidng in the mountains...my wife and I drove 20 different vehicles, before selecting this one. The second to start to drive it, you are impressed with the tightness, it feels like you are driving a sports car. Plenty of pep, and over all enjoyable ride.

BMW X3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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 SUV's, which were like a "Vanilla ice cream cone", the X3 was like a" deluxe bannana split".

Not good

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

Not a good experiance for what I paid for this crappy car. I think A hynduai santa fe has the same cheap looking interior of the the bmw x3. Plus a hynduai has a better warrenty

A bit pricy, but fun to drive.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I never thought I would purchase a BMW. While delivering some documents to the dealer, the owner of the dealership took me out for a test drive during a heavy downpour. The X3 handled like a champ! It performed like a sports car ... it feels like one.

Great little SUV

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

This ute is a blast to drive. It handles great and is pretty darn fast. The interior is surprisingly roomy and the back seat is comfy for 3 adults.

The Sport is the Best

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We went for the 3.0 sport and are very happy. We have heard complaints that the sport rides too stiff and bucks, all I can say is it the most fun I have ever had with an SUV. I have owned two Lexus RX 300's which honestly drive like a minivan compared to the X3. The X3 has a great sporty interior which in my book is of better quality and and design than the new Lexus RX 330 (which was the other car we were considering). With the deal we got from BMW we received much more car for our money than with a Lexus.

BMW X3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

At first I was skeptical to this SUV. With only 184bhp and a large body I was seriously considering a 325xi. However, the new body style, lower price and test drive of the X3 had me sold. It has a turnk the size of an X5 but drives like a 3 Series. The steering and suspension are tight but not harsh and if you really push it, the X3 hustles.

If you need or want AWD

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5