The BMW X3 shows you need not give up driving kicks if roominess and utility are needed. While most consider the X3 a small premium sport utility vehicle (SUV), BMW eschews the word "utility" in favor of "activity" in naming the X3 to emphasize its sporty nature.
The $38,000 all-wheel-drive X3 thus fits in the new small premium "SAV" market, at least as far as BMW is concerned. No wonder vehicle buyers have become increasingly confused.
But never mind name games because the X3 has BMW auto driving qualities and SUV utility. It thus also might be called a "crossover" vehicle.
Introduced in 2003, last year's X3 was given mild restyling, more power and a responsive six-speed automatic transmission that replaced a five-speed automatic. It still comes with a six-speed manual gearbox, but the automatic with an easily used manual-shift feature now is available at no extra charge.
New for 2008 is a $1,400 Sport Activity Package with specially styled 18-inch wheels, running boards, special exterior trim, leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and privacy glass. Active headrests now are standard. And ambient interior/exterior lighting is now part of the $2,700 Premium Package, which includes leather upholstery, power folding exterior mirrors and interior/exterior door handle lighting at all doors.
The X3 is loaded with standard features, which include a power panoramic sunroof, tilt-telescopic wheel with multifunction controls, automatic climate control, power front bucket seats, cruise control, wood interior trim, AM/FM/CD/MP3 10-speaker audio system, 60/40 split folding rear seat and power mirrors, windows and door locks with remote keyless entry. Dual chrome tailpipes are a nice touch.
Among safety features are all-wheel drive, stability and traction control systems, front-side and side head-protecting air bags, antilock all-disc brakes with electronic brake proportioning for optimum braking and relatively even brake and tire wear.
Powering the handsome X3 is a 3-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces a hearty 260 horsepower and strong acceleration: 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds with the manual and 7.1 with the automatic. The engine has a unique "Valvetronic" system that replaces the traditional engine throttle -- instead of a conventional throttle controlled by the accelerator pedal, engine "breathing" is controlled entirely by the valves themselves. The result is more spontaneous engine response. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds.
The X3 is fairly heavy at 4,012 to 4,067 pounds. But estimated fuel economy is acceptable for this type of vehicle, at 17 mpg in the city and 24 on highways with the automatic transmission, which my test X3 had, and 16 and 23 with the manual.
The quick, engine-speed-sensitive power steering is somewhat heavy at lower speeds but will prevent some drivers from "overcorrecting" during fast, unexpected low-speed maneuvers. The X3 is nicely sized and maneuverability is good in tight parking situations. This is among the sharpest-handling SUVs, with carlike responsiveness and little body lean when streaking through curves.
The ride is firm, but supple, and is most comfortable with the standard 55-series tires on 17-inch wheels. The strong anti-lock brakes have Dynamic Brake Control for shorter stops but were controlled by a touchy pedal in my test X3.
The X3 has an all-wheel-drive system that optimizes traction and enhances handling characteristics on slippery and dry roads. It handles best with the $1,400 Sport Activity option or $2,200 Sport Package, which have lower profile 50-series tires on 18-inch wheels. It handles even better, but sacrifices some ride comfort, with the $950 19-inch wheels and even wider front and rear tires, which require the Sport Package. My take? Most should opt for the standard suspension.
This BMW's quiet interior has room for five tall adults, but four is a more practical number because it's a little narrow and the center of the rear seat is too stiff and high for anything but short trips. And a wide front center console eats into foot room. It's fairly easy to get in and out, with large outside door handles, easily grasped inside ones and large door openings.
Front seats are supportive for spirited driving, but the manual tilt/telescopic wheel should have a greater adjustment range. The $1,800 navigation system has a screen that flips up from the dashtop and displays audio functions.
The upscale interior's standard equipment includes a power dual-panel Panoramic sunroof, power front seats, automatic climate control, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, cruise control, wood trim, split/folding rear seat and power mirrors, windows and locks with remote keyless entry.
All doors have good-sized storage pockets, and a large rear armrest contains a covered storage area and dual cupholders.
But some might expect richer materials, considering the X3's price. Standard upholstery is vinyl, instead of leather, which is a $1,450 option.
Safety items include a stability control system, traction control and front side- and curtain-side air bags.
Major options include a $1,000 Cold Weather Package with heated front/rear seats, a $150 heated steering wheel, $800 steering-linked xenon headlights and a $675 upgraded sound system.
It's easy to get carried away ordering options, so those on budgets (and who isn't these days?) should watch it. My X3's options raised its list price from $38,000 to $47,350.
The one-piece tailgate has a 6-foot clearance when fully open to prevent head-banging and has a pull-down assist. Rear seatbacks sit mostly flat when flipped forward to enlarge the cargo area, and their headrests need not be removed.
The hood raises high on struts.
While expensive, the X3 has a no-cost maintenance program that covers wear-and-tear items such as brake pads and rotors for four years or 50,000 miles. And BMW owners pay nothing for scheduled inspections, oil changes, wiper blade inserts and other items. Resale value is good.
2008 BMW X3 Prices: $38,000
Likes: Nicely sized. Carlike handling. Supple ride. Roomy. Decent fuel economy. All-wheel drive.
Dislikes: Touchy brake pedal. Rather heavy low-speed steering. Premium fuel needed.