The Point of the X3

[BigO1120]

When I was shopping for a BMW I tested all 3 models (before the new 3 came out) and they all ran real beautiful. I tested the X3 and it felt like I was driving one of the 3 series models only it was in an SUV form. I've always driven and SUV...especially in the area I live in (NJ) in where we get a lot of snow storms in the winter. The X3 handled the snow like a true champ and I was very pleased about it!

I LOVE MY X3! It's my first ever BMW!

[mwbbmw]

I had a very similar experience - though I now also own an E46 3 series - the last of the 325i's with a 2.5 liter. I was hoping to have snow in my area this winter but was not fortunate enough to have any - not even really in the mountains! So, perhaps next year. It's good to hear that they do handle well. I saw a blurb on Motorweek TV where they had the new 5's equipped with X-drive in the artcic and they seemed to do quite well. I'm still having trouble trying to decide what to lease next - a 3.0 X3 or a 325i with the new 3.0 215hp I-6 ! Either way, I'm sure I won't be disappointed.

BTW, congrats on the decision to buy an X3!

[cliveywolves]

the bmw x3 is a quality vehicle , its so much better than an x5 off road,
it handles better than saloon cars, also is so much safer and better built.
and best of all it is a BMW.

[pipo]

You are so right, Climrgrl, I fail to comprehend why the X3 is not universally praised, at least by the automotive press. Ironically, because the X3 has such superior handling qualities, it is often compared to cars, and not other SUVs. And that is the point: It blows all other SUVs (and most cars) away in handling, responsiveness and fun to drive.

At the same time, it possesses just about the ideal blend of SUV qualities that we were looking for: superior winter handling (X-Drive and DSC), higher ground clearance, flexible storage capabilities, and elevated seating position. And I personally believe it's much more attractive, inside and out, than most if not all other SUVs out there.

I also love driving it in fresh air mode -- windows and moonroof all the way open. Nothing quite like the air rushing by, feeling connected to the car and the road, and hearing the sound of those fine mechanicals going through their paces. Did I mention that I love my X3?

[canadianbattery]

I like my X3 as well, however, I would say the interior is not luxury enough, there are too much rubber and vinyl on the dash. This is the only flaw for me.

[vonchor]

I brought my X5 4.8iS in for service today and the dealer lent me a X3 2.5 (not sure of the year but only has 3K miles). Pretty nice! Perhaps I am used to the stiff X5 suspension but I found the X3 to be a nice ride. But I agree with the posters who lament the interior, it could be spiffed up a bit; a bit too much plasticy stuff.

But I felt it was overall a nice vehicle.

[Juanted]

Climgrl:

We own an X5 AND an X3, and I have to say that I love both cars. My wife loved my X5 so much that she got the X3, and she absolutely LOVES that thing. It handles like a dream, it is quick, agile, and just the right size for her (not too big, not tiny). As long as we are fortunate enough to afford one, I wholeheartedly believe that BMW has got us as customers for life. They make wonderful, luxurious, high-quality, high-performance vehicles, and there is no "point" to be made. There IS a market for these vehicles (SAVs), and BMW has proven that.

Congratulations on your X3, and welcome to the board. We have a bunch of wonderful, knowledgeable, funny, and caring folks who visit here on a daily basis. Hope you become one of the regulars as well.

Juan

[X5Flyboy]

:welcome:
For me, it is missing my '75 280Z and my Broncos ('79,'90,'96). The X5 is MY perfect solution. Have Fun!