2018 BMW X3

Improved in many ways, but not as exciting

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

The 2018 X3 is much improved in many ways over the previous model. The question is, are the improvements ones that BMW drivers were looking for? The new X3 is much quieter, smoother, and is very comfortable. But BMWs, at least in the past, were known for being fun to drive. The new X3 is not bad to drive. Acceleration is great and steering feedback is not terrible. However, the suspension is certainly more soft than previous versions. The suspension seems to waft and sway and upon braking the nose of the car pitches and dives. Not exactly something I'd expect from a German sports activity vehicle - more from a 1970s Detroit car. The technology improvements are apparent, and the Harmon Kardon stereo also sounds terrific. I'm disappointed that despite this X3 being bigger than the previous model, cargo capacity is actually less. This is a great car for a technology guru, all-around family vehicle or road trip vehicle, but if you are looking for that classic BMW handling feel, look elsewhere.