2010 BMW X3: Road Test
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to BMW X3
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2010 BMW X3 includes a full evaluation of the 2010 BMW X3 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 BMW X3, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 BMW X3 help you decide if a 2010 BMW X3 is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.1 |
X3 has 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. No manual-transmission X3 models have been made available for testing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, X3 models with the automatic transmission averaged 19.5-20.1 mpg in mostly highway driving. Premium-grade gas is required.
RIDE QUALITY
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6 |
The ride is sporty and firm with the base suspension, but bumps are absorbed without undue harshness or unwanted body motions. No X3s equipped with the Sport Package have been made available for testing.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.1 |
Among the sportiest SUVs of any size. Body lean is well controlled, and responsiveness is car-like 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
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.3 |
X3 exhibits impressively low wind noise. Tire noise is also subdued on the standard 17-inch treads. The engine makes a classy growl while accelerating, and is muted while cruising.
CONTROLS
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6 |
Audio and climate controls are logically arrayed and marked, but some are a bit out of easy reach. The navigation system includes a screen that flips up from the dashtop at eye level. It only absorbs a few audio functions, but some testers find it difficult to program.
DETAILS
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 7.1 |
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)
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.1 |
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)
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.3 |
Seat cushion is set a bit low for optimal adult comfort, but overall room is more than sufficient. Available heated rear seats are a comfort plus.
CARGO ROOM
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 7.9 |
Cargo area has compact station wagon floor space but SUV height. Rear seatbacks fold without removing the headrests or flipping the lower cushion, but don't rest fully flat. Generous front-door map pockets are nice, but interior storage is meager otherwise.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 6.4 |
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
| xDrive30i, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 67 | 69.1 |
Total Score: 67
Scores for all Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicles
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
