2012 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

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

With new-found suppleness to its suspension set-up, greater agility, stronger performance, reduced thirst and expanded roominess, the new X3 feels much more like something conceived in Munich should.

-- Motor Trend

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

BMW X3 Comparisons:

The essence of BMW's ongoing success is the creation of a vehicle that's good out of the gate, followed by continual refinement and improvement. The 3-series, a perennial 10Best winner, is of course the ultimate example of this formula. And the new BMW X3 seems to be the latest case in point.

-- Car and Driver

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

Best one-liner about the BMW X3:

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

-- Motor Trend