Acceleration

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
6	6

A test 3.0si with automatic transmission provided strong acceleration from a stop and during highway passing and merging; BMW's claim of 7.9 seconds 0-60 mph feels right. However, nonlinear throttle response aggravates smooth driving, as does the transmission's jerky upshifts and delayed downshifts. Its manual override does help, though. We've had no opportunity to test a manual-transmission version.

Fuel Economy

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
5	4.5

A test automatic-transmission 3.0si averaged 19.5 mpg in mostly highway driving. X3 requires premium-grade gas.

Ride Quality

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
6	5.5

The ride is sporty and firm even with the base suspension, but bumps are absorbed without undue harshness or unwanted body motions. We've had no opportunity to test a 3.0si with the sport suspension.

Steering/Handling/Braking

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
6	6.3

The X3 is among the sportiest SUVs, as body lean is well controlled and responsiveness is carlike in any driving condition. Steering feel is generally good, but some testers complain that effort is too heavy at low speeds. A tight turning radius helps in close quarters. Strong brakes have good pedal feel.

Quietness

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
6	6.3

X3s exhibit impressively low tire and wind noise. The engine makes a classy growl while accelerating but is muted while cruising.

Controls

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
6	6

Audio and climate controls are logically arrayed and marked, but some are a bit out of easy reach. Test vehicle had the optional navigation system that includes a screen that flips up from the dashtop at eye level. Unlike many navigation systems, it didn't complicate most audio functions, but some testers felt is was difficult to program.

Details

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
6	6.5

Interior materials are fairly nice, but some testers feel they're not as rich as they should be given the X3's lofty pricing. Note that the standard upholstery is vinyl instead of leather, which is optional here but standard on most class competitors. Some minor rattles were noted in the cargo area of one test example.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
7	6.8

There's good legroom and ample headroom, but a wide center tunnel encroaches on foot space. Seats lack sufficient padding for ideal long-distance comfort. The manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel may not offer enough reach for some drivers.

Room/Comfort (rear)

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
6	5

Seat cushion is set a bit low for optimal adult comfort, but overall space is sufficient. Available heated rear seats are a comfort plus.

Cargo Room

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
9	8

Cargo area has compact station wagon floor space but SUV height. Rear seatbacks fold without removing headrests or flipping the lower cushion, but don't rest fully flat. Generous front-door map pockets highlight otherwise meager interior storage.

Value within Class

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
4	5.8

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.

Total Score

3.0si, automatic	Class Average
67	66.7

Scores for all Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		61
Average Score		66
High Score		72