2005 BMW X3 3.0i (Video Clip)

* Click HERE to see a video on the BMW X3 *


SPORT utility vehicle

The automotive market is vast. There are millions of people in North America buying new cars every year. These consumers must make their choice amidst a selection of approximately 275 different vehicles. It is obviously difficult to please everyone but some manufacturers stick their necks out a little further in the attempt to please a smaller amount with a particular product. Some fail miserably and others form a whole new segment. BMW was one of the first manufacturers to really put the emphasis on the sport portion of the SUV name. The X5, which became a runaway hit, spawned many replies from other carmakers. BMW then launched a reduced copy of the X5 to stay on top of the game.

The BMW X3 came to be in 2004 as an all-new compact Sport-UV with much importance given to the driving experience over the utility aspect. It is based on a 3-series platform and borrows nearly all of its mechanical aspects. BMW actually qualifies the X3 as a Sport-Activity-Vehicle. Therefore, this truck is not aimed at those that require a utility vehicle for off-road duty.

The base X3 2.5i has a starting price of $44,600. A full-optioned out 3.0i will fetch over $62,000. As tested, our 3.0i 6-speed with Premium Package retails for $55,400.

Exterior styling

If you were to take an X5 and a 3-series wagon DNA and mix them together, the resulting outcome would be the X3. It has all the usual must-haves of a BMW starting with the twin kidney grille, distinctive headlights and more old-school BMW proportions. There is nothing rugged in the styling of this truck, nor should it really be called a truck. It is no more than a station wagon with pumped up exterior dimensions. It is nonetheless very attractive with good-looking alloy wheels, hood indents and mostly straight-cut lines.

Some options are a huge Panorama sunroof that is one-touch activated as well as racy and staggered 18" alloy wheels. As is to be expected with German luxury cars, the body panels are perfectly aligned and paint application is very good.

Interior styling

The cabin of the X3 is austere yet inviting. It is a place of driving business like no other small SUV. There are very few cubbyholes and storage compartments, two flimsy front cup holders and a thick, grippy steering wheel waiting to be manhandled. BMW's cockpit is a no-nonsense, no distraction place for drivers.

The dashboard is beautifully finished and sculpted. The padded materials are a touch of luxury that every vehicle should have. The cargo area is also very well polished. The HVAC and radio controls are jumbled together; hence it takes some time to get used to where certain controls are located. The buttons themselves have a quality feel about them. The gauges are compact yet pleasant to consult. The leather is brilliantly stitched for both the seats and armrests. The aluminium accents are a tad to dodgy for my tastes.