Review
As the ultra-successful X5's smaller and slightly cheaper sister, the X3 should have queues forming around the block. Yet with gawky styling and borderline optimistic pricing, BMW's junior off-roader has never really taken off, and even a mid-term facelift hasn't been able to raise the appeal by much.
The X3's biggest problem is probably its awkward, narrow-looking styling - not the sort of thing to win hearts among potential buyers in its very aspirational market segment. It's reasonably spacious inside, with lots of componentry and switchgear shared with the 3 Series, but some of the trim quality feels disappointing compared with the very high standards set by the rest of the range.
On road the X3 drives well. Its road-biased suspension gives plenty of traditional BMW dynamic cues, including plenty of cornering power and excellent steering. The previously over-firm ride is now far more compliant, and it will even have a decent go at off-roading should you be so minded.
At least there are lots of engines to choose between. The entry-level 2.0 litre petrol motor feels a bit slow, but the 2.5 straight six is far more brawny and the new "Si" 3.0 litre version is brilliant. The 2.0 litre diesel engine gives plenty of performance, the 3.0d is rapid and the twin-turbo 3.0 Sd is the most exciting model it the range - although it carries a pricetag to match.