| Overall Rating |
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| Description |
| The BMW X3 has been released as the rival for the Land Rover Freelander. The BMW X3 handles off-road driving in an unexpectedly positive way and it is also complemented by a drive that is very similar to a regular car. The X3 is however not as comfortable as you would expect for the price. |
| Handling |
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| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
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| Performance |
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| Roominess |
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| Running Costs |
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| Value for Money |
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| Stereo/Sat Nav |
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| Best Models |
| 2.5i |
| Worst Models |
| 3.0i |
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| Road Test |
The BMW X3 is not just an SUV to pose around in, it also has great off road handling. The X3 is modelled as a mini version of the BMW X5 with an effective four-wheel drive system with Hill Descent Control.
The BMW X3 is designed on the BMW 3 Series base, it has a driving experience that is similar to a regular estate or saloon car even though it has more height and higher off the ground.
The engines available in the X3 are the 2.5 and 3.0 litre Six-cylinder engines followed by the 2.0 and 3.0 diesel engines.
Bad points to mention on the BMW X3 are the 3.0 petrol version is lacking in power and the use of hard plastic in the interior makes it look cheap and the drive is too hard. |
| Positive Points |
- Sporty handling and excellent grip
- A prestige package
- almost a baby X5
- Refined engines and good ride comfort
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| Negative Points |
- Pricey for a medium sport/leisure 4x4...
- ... And extras push prices even higher
- Interior styling lacks distinction
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