Spare wheel
 

At present I have an X5 but am considering an X3 next time as the new X5 is really too large for my needs.
I notice that the X3 is specified with one of the dreaded 'space saver' tyres which I have never been convinced about, especially as I undertake long trips on the continent.
Is it possible to fit a full size alloy spare in the X3 or is this impossible.

It's not possible to fit a full sized spare in the space provided, hence the dreaded "space-saver" spare. I've tried!

Thanks for confirming my fears.
On another, not too far removed, subject. I have a spare set of X5 19 inch wheels. Any chance of these fitting on an X3.

That is too bad, in the X5 the spare is a real full size tire.

If i am not mistaken my X3 has a normal size spare tire as my dealer exlained at delivery day.

Rik,
Which style X5 19s do you have?

Not that it matters; the offset on X5 wheels is different,
but I've seen pics here of X5 wheels, (even style 87 20s),
on an X3. The increased offset of most X5 wheels, (vs most
X3 wheels), may promote more tire wear, but worth a try,
though not sure if any full size wheel spare is going to fit
in your X3's well.

Here's a couple links for wheel sizing: first is a list of BMW wheels
with pics and "sizing", inc. width and offset; use the drop down
tab and then click on your two wheels and note "size".

http://felgenkatalog.auto-treff.com/

The 2nd link is a powerful graphic comparsion that allows for
exact wheel/tire combos and show the end view of wheel/tire
position and hub set.

http://www.bigcustomwheels.com/rt_specs.jsp

Another angle may be to cop a used or non-oem wheel/tire,
in your X3s size, if it fits in your spare area, for back up,
giving up cosmetics.
GL,mD

Well, it is a 17" steel rim, but it is much narrower. Because of this, I think the normal tire's width (235mm) would have problems fitting in the spare tire slot.

Many thanks for all the advice (and very interesting websites)

Rik,
Otoh...if you are not offroading, we here in the Colonies do some
seriousazz long distance driving regularly, without a lot of concern
over flats/spares, etc.

The spare you have will get you quite a ways down the road, albeit
at slower speeds, in order to find a metro ctr and get your flat
fixed. Many of us are riding around on fixed flats here in the US:
we get a "patch" done, inside the tire. The patches last longer than
the tire tread and while they slightly reduce the load and/or speed
rating, it shouldn't present a huge problem. Or, one could get it
patched and motor on to a bigger metro ctr and cough up for a
new replacement tire.

Not knowing your definition of what "especially as I undertake long
trips on the continent" ...really means, I don't quite understand your reluctance.

I've driven all over England, Scotland, Wales, Germany, Belgium, France, etc., in
rental cars, and never had the misfortune of a flat; nor did I worry about that possibility.
My 25cts is up...
GL,mD

Just ultra cautious I suppose. Have had three flats in the rear tyres ( 285/45 19) in the last couple of years although always near home as yet. I travel across the wilder parts of Spain quite a bit where you can get a donkey repaired but tyres wider than 155 are a rarity.

Thanks very much for your input.