2004-2008 BMW X3: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

BMW's first compact sport-utility vehicle was an all-wheel-drive wagon based on the platform used by the German company's sporty 3-Series cars. Although the X3 was about 3 inches longer in wheelbase and body length than the 3-Series station wagon, its taller body and SUV-style 8.0 inches of ground clearance made it 9.5 inches taller overall. Its 71 cubic feet of cargo room ranked among the most of any compact SUV, and beat BMW's larger X5 SUV by 16.6 cubic feet. Passenger space virtually matched the more costly X5's, but the X3 weighed some 600 pounds less. Despite 8-inch ground clearance, the X3 was intended for only light-duty off-road duties. BMW's new xDrive AWD system was designed largely to enhance on-road handling. The X3 borrowed its inline six-cylinder powertrains from the 3-Series: The X3 2.5i had a 184-horsepower 2.5-liter, while the X3 3.0i held a 225-horsepower 3.0-liter. Both teamed with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic, with manual shift gate. Each X3 seated five and had a liftgate without separate-opening glass. Like the AWD system available in 3-Series cars, the X3's did not include low-range gearing. However, its hill descent control could automatically limit steep downhill speeds to a crawl. Antilock all-disc brakes and BMW's Dynamic Stability Control traction/antiskid control were standard. Front side airbags and front/rear head-protecting tubular side airbags also were standard; rear torso side airbags were optional. The X3 2.5i arrived at dealerships early in 2004, several months after the 3.0i. The 3.0i came with 17-inch wheels, but could be equipped with 18-inch all-weather tires, or, as part of a Sport Package, with summer performance tread. The Sport option also included a firmer suspension and sport front seats. Other 3.0i standard features included power front seats and a tilt/telescoping steering column. Options included a navigation system, xenon headlamps, front- and rear-obstacle detection, leather and wood interior trim, and BMW's Panorama dual sunroof with a sliding front panel and glass rear skylight. With the X3, BMW competed against the Acura MDX, Lexus RX, Cadillac SRX, Mazda Tribute, Audi A4 Avant, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4Matic wagon.