Review: BMW X3 3.0d

The concept is simple - take all the refinement and luxury of the X5 and shrink it into a smaller SUV package. BMW's X3 is the only real compact executive 4x4 on the market, but it has always been compromised.

True to the German firm's philosophy of building driver-focused cars, the X3 delivers nimble handling and sharp steering. Unfortunately, it lacks practicality, has dubious styling and suffers from poor interior quality. So how has BMW tried to increase the appeal of its smallest SUV? Simple: by giving it one of the best diesel engines in the world.

This should add even more excitement to the driving experience. Lifted straight from the X5, the 215bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder propels the X3 from 0-60mph in 7.4 seconds. Top speed is 130mph on SE models and 136mph on Sport and M Sport variants.

Full review here

rack - 2/16/2006 9:27:10 AM

+1 Boost

"BMW's X3 is the only real compact executive 4x4 on the market"

I dont think they raised the bar w/ the X3

Why is a X3 more exectuve than say a RX, or ML? I'd say the ML much more "executive".

atomicbri - 2/16/2006 12:25:26 PM

+1 Boost

I really wish America would get the new and improved Diesel fuel so we could enjoy these great new diesel motors that Europe & Japan are creating. We need to drop our thoughts of the 70's horrid diesel motors and give these motors a chance....they actually get terrific gas milage and in some cases are actually quicker than the petrol versions!

Matthew1 - 2/16/2006 9:48:54 PM

+1 Boost

It may be small compared to an Excursion, but it is no where near as small as a X3.

Think Rav-4 size.