EDMUNDS.COM 2004 BMW X3
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
A logical and long overdue extension of the 3 Series, the X3 has the performance and the pedigree to become yet another BMW sales success.
Pros
World-class engines, nimble handling, precise steering, high-quality interior materials, solid build quality.
Cons
Limited cargo space, not much real off-road ability, stiffer ride than most sport-utes.
What''s New for 2004
The X3 is an all-new compact sport-utility vehicle from BMW. It is based on the 3 Series sedan and shares many of that car''s components and its overall dimensions.
Overview
Introduction:
The idea of a BMW sport-utility vehicle never seemed quite right, but when the German automaker unveiled the X5 in 2000 it became an instant success. It wasn''t really much of an SUV in the traditional sense, as it featured low-profile street tires and minimal ground clearance, but it had all the things people really wanted in an SUV, namely a high seating position, all-weather traction and rugged looks. With sales of the X5 still going strong, BMW has taken the next logical step and added a new sport-ute to the lineup -- the X3. Based on the smaller 3 Series sedan, the X3 is a downsized version of the X5 that promises similar levels of sportiness and utility. It has a high seating position, all-weather traction and just enough sharp edges to give it a look all its own. Add in plenty of bulletproof hardware from the 3 Series lineup, and indeed the X3 has all the makings of a very popular compact luxury SUV. At the heart of the X3 is the same lineup of inline six-cylinder engines found in the 3 Series sedans, convertibles, coupes and wagons. The base 2.5-liter engine, rated at 184 horsepower, is an excellent compromise between power and frugality, while the larger 225-hp, 3.0-liter engine offers spirited performance for more enthusiastic drivers. Known the world over for their refinement and power, these engines provide a broad band of usable power that is well suited to the X3''s purpose. Along with these potent power plants, the X3 also features a new full-time all-wheel-drive system dubbed xDrive. With the ability to detect slippage and redirect power to the wheels with the most traction, this system gives the X3 outstanding handling in both wet and dry situations. In addition to all-weather capability, the X3 features a commanding view from the driver seat along with ample passenger and cargo room. Numerous storage spaces are sprinkled throughout the interior for added versatility, and the X3 can accommodate multiple mountain bikes, according to BMW. Like its 3 Series cousins, the X3 sports a stylish and well-trimmed interior highlighted by large analog gauges and high-quality switchgear. Along with the Land Rover Freelander, the X3 is one of the few the compact sport-utilities with a luxury-brand nameplate. Whether consumers are ready to shell out the extra money for a leather-lined mini-ute remains to be seen, but the X3''s combination of style and performance looks gives it the best chance yet of inspiring such spending. It''s certainly not a traditional SUV by any means, but if you like the way it looks on paper, you''re most certainly going to like the feeling behind the wheel.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The X3 is a compact four-door SUV that comes in two trim levels that correspond to their respective engines -- either 2.5i or 3.0i. The base 2.5i comes with all the features like automatic climate control, leatherette (vinyl, that is) upholstery, one-touch power windows, automatic headlights, heated mirrors, a CD player and keyless entry. The 3.0i models add larger wheels and tires and an upgraded audio system. Options on both models include full leather upholstery, a DVD-based navigation system, bi-xenon headlights and rear parking sensors.
Powertrains and Performance:
The 2.5i is powered by a 2.5-liter inline six that makes 184 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. The 3.0i uses a 3.0-liter engine that generates 225 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque. Both models come standard with a six-speed manual transmission; a five-speed Steptronic automatic is optional. Also standard on all models is a new all-wheel-drive system dubbed xDrive that automatically distributes power to the wheels with the most traction for optimum performance in all conditions.
Safety:
Both models feature standard four-wheel antilock disc brakes, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and a full complement of front, side and side curtain airbags.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Although more stylish than the 3 Series it''s based on, the X3''s interior is still instantly recognizable as a BMW. Large analog gauges greet the driver while high-quality materials cover every inch of the cabin. The climate controls are still more complex than we would like, but the overall look is very clean and uncluttered. Passenger space is about average for the category, with a smaller cargo hold than most compact SUVS.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
It may be an SUV but it sure doesn''t drive like one. Much like its bigger brother the X5, the X3 feels more like a sedan behind the wheel than a lumbering off-road machine. Typically precise steering combined with a tightly controlled suspension and perfect traction results in a sport-ute that gives up little in the way of driving dynamics. If you''re looking for the closest thing to a sports car with a high seating position, this is your vehicle.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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