2004 BMW X3 Review Summaries

What reviewers liked most about the BMW X3:

It is sure-footed, the drivetrain is unparalleled and the interior is reminiscent of every other BMW you have experienced.

-- AutoWeek

The six speed had a satisfying feel, and I was surprised at how much engine power came on when I was in sixth gear and starting a easy mountain grade. There's a good amount of power to be found via every gear here, and you don't always have to downshift to get it.

-- Carpoint.com

Despite the high expectations that come with attaching the flying propeller logo to any vehicle, the new X3 still surprises those expectations with amazing prowess.

-- Edmunds.com

It's roomy, both for passengers and cargo. And just as important, it's replete with safety features, both active and passive.

-- New Car Test Drive

What reviewers liked least about the BMW X3:

Most noticeable is its lack of German-ness. Unlike some, I didn't find the materials inside up to BMW standards (though I did find the seats pretty comfortable), and the doors shut with a clang instead of a thunk.

-- AutoWeek

Shod in the rear with the 45-series, W-rated rubber of the optional Sport package, the X3's ride is hard-edged, concussive, and insufferable.

-- Car and Driver

Fuel economy rating for the manual transmission model with 3-liter engine is only 17 miles a gallon in city driving, though. This is the same city rating as a Ford Explorer with two-wheel drive, six-cylinder engine and automatic transmission.

-- Carpoint.com

BMW X3 Comparisons:

Although this will no doubt produce cries of heresy among the BMW faithful, I prefer the handling of the X3 to that of even the much lauded 3 Series sedan.

-- Edmunds.com

The X3's 110-inch wheelbase is less than 1 inch shy of the X5's, and its overall length comes up short of the X5's 183.7 inches by only 4 inches. The X5 is also but 1.5 inches taller.

-- New Car Test Drive

Best one-liner about the BMW X3:

Hit a craggy, undulating section of road, and the X3 bucks like a mare with Little Richard's pinky ring stuck under the saddle.

-- Car and Driver

You might call it a 'cute 'ute,' but BMW insists on describing its X models as 'sport/activity vehicles.'

-- Motor Trend