BMW X3 History
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The BMW X3 is a mid-size crossover vehicle that slots between the bigger X5 and the smaller X1 (which hasn't gone on sale yet in the U.S.). Introduced as a 2004 model, the X3 has been built in Austria by contract manufacturer Magna Steyr, but beginning with the second-generation vehicle, the X3 will be built in the U.S.--at BMW's Spartanburg, S.C., facility. The X3 competes with the likes of the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLK and the Land Rover LR2, and is priced in the high $30,00 range.
In its first and current generation, the BMW X3 became one of the anchors of the luxury crossover vehicle segment. It arrived in U.S. showrooms with six-cylinder engines, manual and automatic transmissions, and an advanced all-wheel-drive system that used input from stability control to determine how to apportion the engine's power. The first X3 also, unfortunately, suffered from a cut-rate interior and a very stiff ride. In each model year since 2004, BMW has modified the X3's looks or hardware to improve it. In 2007, BMW updated the engines, ride and steering, and cabins of the X3 with a noticeable improvement all around.
Today's X3 isn't the best choice in its class, but it's in the hunt thanks to its very carlike feel. More than most of its competitors, the X3 has some of the traditional BMW handling zest infused into its all-wheel-drive body. Elsewhere, it's showing its age: while there's nothing wrong with the 2010 X3's exterior or interior styling, newer crossovers like the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60 have made its clean, flat body panels and stark black-plastic dash look dated.
The sole powertrain is now a 260-horsepower, 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine; BMW still offers a six-speed manual transmission with the X3 and an an automatic is available. All-wheel drive is standard. The X3 is a brisk performer, and with either gearbox, it's responsive and eager. The driving feel isn't pure BMW delight, but it's as close as you'll get in the class. The harsh ride's been toned down, though you may want to steer clear of the optional 19-inch wheels.
At 179.9 inches long, with a 110.1-inch wheelbase, interior room is tight in the X3. In front, adults are fine; in back they're cramped, and there's about 30 cubic feet for all their luggage. The Acura RDX has nearly as much space with a
wheelbase half a foot shorter-and the inexpensive Hyundai Tucson has more interior room at half the price.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) has not crash-tested the 2010 BMW X3, but the IIHS gives it "good" ratings for front and side impact protection and calls it a Top Safety Pick. Front side and side-curtain airbags are standard, along with electronic stability control. Rear seat-mounted side airbags are an option. BMW offers parking sensors, but not a rearview camera.
BMW is planning a new X3 for the 2012 model year. The new vehicle will be built alongside the X5 and X6 in South Carolina, though there's no indication the two will share any running gear.
