The X3 is good in the snow, but you will still need winter tires. Not sure where you are in BC, but we spent a fair bit of time visiting family in the Kootenays, and it always did great. The Hope Princton, Anarchist, Blueberry Paulson, Nancy Green, and the Salmo/Creston are all firmly etched in my mind.

Most of the discussion on this board is on the X5 instead of the X3. In comparison to the X5 platform, the X3 is quite a bit simpler (E46 origins). That helps with reliability. The M54 engines are pretty bulletproof. And it is a manual transmission model. Those are the good points. The negatives are that parts aren't necessarily cheap compared to some other brands, and you either need a trusted independent mechanic or an ability to do some of the repairs yourself. The mileage is getting up there, so if ultimate reliability is the issue then I would look for a lower mileage alternative. If you expect to have to repair things as they go, over time, then you will be better off than thinking that "everything has just been done so it is good now". That thinking is a recipe for later disappointment.

Make sure that all trouble code issues are resolved prior to making an offer.

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2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White

Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue