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steering column tilt and telescope movements are still managed by a simplistic single-lever release instead of the power adjuster
Automobile Magazine »
a seemingly endless list of high-priced options
AutoWeek »
8.8-inch navigation display includes an Internet connection with voice-read e-mails
Motor Trend »
enough features to make your iPhone jealous, including the ability to display e-mails when the vehicle is stationary, as well as a text-to-speech functionality that reads messages through the audio system while on the go
Autoblog »
BMW’s head-up display will be on the options list for the first time
Car and Driver »
FEATURES | 8 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
steering column tilt and telescope movements are still managed by a simplistic single-lever release instead of the power adjuster
Automobile Magazine
a seemingly endless list of high-priced options
AutoWeek
8.8-inch navigation display includes an Internet connection with voice-read e-mails
Motor Trend
enough features to make your iPhone jealous, including the ability to display e-mails when the vehicle is stationary, as well as a text-to-speech functionality that reads messages through the audio system while on the go
Autoblog
BMW’s head-up display will be on the options list for the first time
Car and Driver
A revamped feature list shows, indirectly, some of the cost benefits of bringing the 2011 BMW X3 in to the American family. Prices for the 2011 X3 are in alignment with the rest of the class, yet BMW is less stingy with standard features compared to some rival models. Automatic climate control, eight-way power seats, a basic iPod and USB adapter, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and a 205-watt, 12-speaker sound system are all included even in the base X3 xDrive28i model.
In up front and center on navigation-equipped vehicles, there's the latest version of iDrive, with a big, bright 8.8-inch LCD screen, and they include full iPod integration and enhanced USB connectivity. Real-time traffic information is also included.
Other noteworthy options—most offered in somewhat pricey packages—include heated front and rear seats, xenon headlamps with adaptive light control, a panorama roof, and a power tailgate. A head-up display, which projects some gauge readouts onto the windshield is also now available. Oddly, while a 60/40-split rear seatback is standard, a 40/20/40-split rear seatback with fold-down armrest is optional.
Conclusion
You could potentially spend a bundle on the 2011 BMW X3 if you check a lot of option boxes, but the base model is better equipped than many rival luxury crossovers.