BMW's X3 sports utility offers a highly versatile and strong "all road" performance package. This sports utility vehicle offers the world famous BMW handling combined with a rugged frame and a huge amount of storage. Much like other similar sports utility vehicles in its class the X3 seems to be underpowered with its small 3.0 liter 260 horsepower engine. The engine is perfect for city driving but with only 225 foot pounds of torque, this does not seem like towing machine.
The X3 introduced the Xdrive system to the BMW family and now this new transmission option is found in many different BMW models. The storage space in this vehicle is actually surprisingly roomy and offers over 70 cubic feet of room for cargo of any type. There are many small cargo areas located around the vehicle to make quickly storing all your on the go items fast and easy. When you consider everything together, BMW has put together a great package, but there is definitely room for improvement especially in the engine department. The BMW X3 starts below $40,000 and for a vehicle like this from BMW that is a real steal.
The Range
Bodystyles: SUV
Engines: 3.0L I-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Models: X3 xDrive 3.0i
What's New
For the 2010 model year the Panoramic Moonroof becomes optional and is also included in the Premium package. For 2010 buyers have a wide array of options and packages available: Sport Activity, Premium, Sport and Cold Weather. While options include: Comfort Seats, STEPTRONIC automatic transmission, Xenon adaptive headlights, park distance control, 18-inch wheels and all-season tires, and Metallic paint.
Exterior
On standard X3 models the body side wheel arch and rocker arm trim panels are made of flexible, damage-resistant black surfaces. Sport Package-equipped vehicles get body-colored wheel arches, lower bumpers and distinct rocker panels.
Interior
Automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, eight-way-adjustable power front seats with driver memory settings and a 10-speaker audio system with a CD/MP3 player, HD radio and an auxiliary audio jack are all standard.
Performance & Handling
A 6-speed manual transmission remains standard in the 2010 X3 with the 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission being a no cost option. You don't have a choice of engines in the X3, the 3.0-liter I-6 with 260 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque is the only powerplant available, and BMW's xDrive comes standard in all X3's.
Safety
Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), side door mounted airbags with side-impact sensors, first and second row curtain airbags, airbag occupancy sensor, traction and stability control, and an all-wheel drive are all standard.
EPA Fuel Economy
X3, xDrive 3.0i: 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Decent cargo room
- Won't empty the bank
You Won't Like
- Questionable styling
- No optional engines
Sum Up
The new model is almost here
If You Like This Vehicle
- Cadillac SRX
- Lexus RX
- Volvo XC90