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2008 BMW X3 Full Review
Date Published: 3/27/08
Also in the 2008 BMW X3 Review:
2008 BMW X3 Review
The 2008 BMW X3 continues unchanged from 2007. The lone 3.0si model seats five and comes with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system that lacks low-range gearing but includes hill descent control. A 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine is available with either manual or automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. ABS, traction control, and antiskid system are standard. So are front side airbags and curtain side airbags; rear side airbags are optional. An available Sport Package includes firmer suspension and 18- or 19-inch wheels. A sunroof is standard, as is vinyl upholstery; leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, multi-adjustable "comfort" front seats, and a heated steering wheel are optional. Other options include a navigation system, steering-linked xenon headlamps, front/rear obstacle detection, and the BMW Assist system.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact SUVs are luxury SUVs that are compact in size. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. This segment is one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.
We have no Best Buys in this class. Our Recommend Pick is the Infiniti EX35.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Infiniti EX35 and Land Rover LR2.
We have no Best Buys in this class. Our Recommend Pick is the Infiniti EX35.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Infiniti EX35 and Land Rover LR2.
News
X3 won't be redesigned until at least 2010. Whenever that happens, sources say, BMW will shift production from Europe to its South Carolina plant, alongside the just-redesigned X5. This suggests the next X3 will be a junior X5 in makeup as well as market position. Indeed, it's said to use the same basic platform as the larger SUV. Engines should comprise one or more inline 6-cyl units and perhaps a small V8, but all will run on gasoline. BMW has lately reversed course by saying it will not offer diesel engines in America anytime soon.
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2008 BMW X3 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Front-seat room/comfort | Price |
| Cargo room | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb.
| 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. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb.
Fuel Economy
A test automatic-transmission 3.0si averaged 19.5 mpg in mostly highway driving. X3 requires premium-grade gas.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
X3s exhibit impressively low tire and wind noise. The engine makes a classy growl while accelerating but is muted while cruising.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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)
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.
| 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)
Seat cushion is set a bit low for optimal adult comfort, but overall space is sufficient. Available heated rear seats are a comfort plus.
| 3.0si, automatic | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.3 |
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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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 | 67 |
Scores for all Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 61 | |
| Average Score | 67 | |
| High Score | 73 |
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2008 BMW X3 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 03/12/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| 3.0si 4-door wagon | $38,000 | $34,960 | $775 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
3.0si
Powertrain
3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, all-wheel drive, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, side head-protecting airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, hill descent control, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/automatic climate control, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, vinyl upholstery, 8-way power front bucket seats, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), center console, split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media player connection, tachometer, trip computer, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, rear wiper/washer, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, rear spoiler, roof rails.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
235/55HR17 tires, alloy wheels.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Premium Pkg.
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$2,700
|
$2,455
|
|
Leather upholstery, front-seat lumbar adjustment, BMW Assist system w/one year service, wireless cell phone link, automatic day/night rearview and outside mirrors, compass, universal garage door opener, additional interior lights.
|
||
|
Sport Activity Pkg.
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$1,400
|
$1,275
|
|
Sport steering wheel, shadowline trim, rear privacy glass, running boards, 235/50HR18 tires, unique alloy wheels.
|
||
|
Sport Pkg.
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$2,200
|
$2,000
|
|
Sport steering wheel, sport seats w/adjustable thigh support, shadowline trim, body cladding, sport suspension, 235/50HR18 tires, unique alloy wheels. Requires leather upholstery. NA w/heated steering wheel, comfort seats.
|
||
|
Cold Weather Pkg.
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$1,000
|
$910
|
|
Heated front and rear seats, ski sack, headlight washers.
|
||
|
|
||
Powertrain |
||
|
6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$0
|
$0
|
|
|
||
Safety |
||
|
Rear side airbags
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$385
|
$350
|
|
Front- and rear-obstacle-detection system
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$700
|
$635
|
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Navigation system
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$1,800
|
$1,640
|
|
BMW Assist system
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$750
|
$685
|
|
Includes one year service, wireless cell phone link.
|
||
|
Leather upholstery
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$1,450
|
$1,320
|
|
Comfort seats
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$1,000
|
$910
|
|
ordered w/Premium Pkg.
|
$700
|
$635
|
|
Front seats w/lumbar and headrest adjustment, 2-way upper backrest angle adjustment. Requires leather upholstery.
|
||
|
Heated front seats
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$500
|
$455
|
|
Heated steering wheel
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$150
|
$135
|
|
Upgraded variable-assist power steering
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$250
|
$230
|
|
Special wood interior trim
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$0
|
$0
|
|
Upgraded sound system
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$675
|
$615
|
|
High definition radio
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$500
|
$450
|
|
Cargo cover
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$150
|
$135
|
|
Cargo net
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$150
|
$135
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Steering-linked xenon headlights
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$800
|
$730
|
|
Rear privacy glass
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$350
|
$320
|
|
Special paint
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$475
|
$430
|
|
235/45R19 front tires and 255/40R19 rear tires
|
||
|
3.0si
|
$950
|
$865
|
|
Requires Sport Pkg.
|
||
|
|
||
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2008 BMW X3 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | BMW X3 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 110.1 |
| Overall Length, in. | 179.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.0 |
| Overall Height, in. | 66.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4001 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 71.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.7 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 40.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.4 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.8 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.0 /182 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 260 @ 6600 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 225 @ 2500 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| 6-speed manual | 18/26 |
| 6-speed automatic | 19/26 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | BMW X3 4-door wagon |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 12/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | 4/50,000 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Austria
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive
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Also in the 2008 BMW X3 Review:
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