2010 BMW X3
- 2009 BMW X3
- Used BMW X3
Based on analysis of 42 X3 reviews and test drives.
BMW X3 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 BMW X3 ranks 6 out of 7 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 42 published reviews and test drives of the BMW X3, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The X3 is an excellent performer, delivering the sporty ride and handling BMW is known for. It offers competitive all-wheel drive performance, but some find its suspension a little too stiff and its price too high for its class.
The X3 has many high points, but they don't come cheap. It's the most expensive car in its class and costs between $2,000 to $7,000 more than other luxury compact SUVs. Plus, with options, a loaded X3 can easily push up against the $50,000 mark. That's a lot to pay for a small SUV. So, what exactly are you getting for the money? The most alluring reasons to shell out for an X3 are its excellent German driving dynamics and sporty ride. It's one of only two SUVs in its class to offer standard all-wheel drive (the other is the Audi Q5).
Add in a luxurious, high-quality interior and the X3 is a great car for couples without kids. AutoWeek calls the X3 "still one of the best-driving SUVs on the market, thanks to accurate steering and committed cornering responses." However, if you need a family hauler, the X3 probably won't suffice. Its sporty ride takes a toll on ride comfort, and its suspension might be too stiff for everyday driving. And while its cargo area is good for a compact SUV, its rear seat is on the cramped side for its class.
Unless you're a BMW loyalist, there are more affordable and more functional compact SUV choices. The Audi Q5 starts at about $2,000 less, boasts standard all-wheel drive and a useful sliding rear seat. An even more affordable option is the Acura RDX. It costs about $4,000 less (even with the optional all-wheel drive) and comes with a turbocharged engine and roomy cargo area. Both the RDX and Q5 improve upon the X3's average 16/23 mpg fuel economy rating, offering 19/24 and 18/23 ratings, respectively.
The X3 comes in only one trim level, the xDrive 30i. The X3 is mostly unchanged for 2010. The panoramic moonroof is now optional instead of standard and HD radio is a new standard feature. Since dealers are making way for 2010s on their lots, buyers could snag a discount by deciding to purchase a 2009 model instead.
- "Like BMW's 3-Series cars, X3 gives up outright size to most like-priced competitors but delivers sporty handling and a quiet ride. Good engine power is offset by poor throttle response and jerky transmission behavior. Add in steep pricing, and X3 is overshadowed by the best in this class for value." -- Consumer Guide
- "The 2010 BMW X3 xDrive30i is an excellent, if rather pricey, choice for driving enthusiasts who want a compact crossover SUV that feels and moves like a sport sedan." -- Edmunds
- "Sure, you can add options, but they get pricey, pushing X3 from reasonably expensive to a little silly. There are certainly other vehicles to consider in this class." -- About.com
- "It handles well but is too expensive and too small. Why not buy a BMW coupe instead and have more fun?" -- BusinessWeek
- The X3 "is hard to beat for people who want BMW's heritage, looks, powertrain and packaging, but desire the flexibility a sport-utility vehicle offers, or vice versa." -- Automotive.com
X3 Performance - 8.7 (Very Good)
The 2010 BMW X3 stands out for its power and especially sporty handling. "Whatever it looks like, it performs like a sports sedan, a machine with the guts to lead the pack, not follow in their fumes," says the Chicago Tribune. The X3 is one of only a few in its class to come with standard all-wheel drive. Read More
X3 Exterior - 7.0 (Good)
The five-year-old X3's exterior design is beginning to show its age -- and that's a drawback for many reviewers. A redesign was rumored for 2010, but it looks like reviewers will have to wait at least one more year. Still, Automotive.com says the X3 has a "BMW-like, road-grabbing face." Read More
X3 Interior - 7.9 (Good)
While the X3 previously lagged behind its BMW siblings regarding interior quality, most critics now praise the overall comfort, layout, and materials. Note however that critics don't recommend the optional navigation system. "There's not a lot of room inside the X3, but what there is is well thought out and beautifully executed," says Edmunds. "The decoration is more sophisticated than opulent, with excellent switch feel and plenty of storage cubbies strewn about." Read More
X3 Safety - 10.0 (Excellent)
The federal government has not yet crash tested the X3, but the insurance industry gives the 2010 model excellent scores. The SUV's robust level of standard accident avoidance equipment includes Dynamic Stability Control. Read More
X3 Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2010 BMW X3 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2010 X3 comes with BMW's competitive four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. Read More
