BMW is a brand that distinguishes itself with a portfolio of cars and SUVs whose vocation and sporty aspirations are undeniable. But when it comes to personality, BMW vehicles fail to distinguish themselves as much. While they’re all unique in their class, overall, when you compare one with another they’re pretty much the same. Same style, same cabin, same everything – even the same driving enjoyment.
After having driven nearly every conceivable BMW model over the last few years, when I slid behind the wheel of the X3 I felt like I was on familiar ground. A little too familiar, to be honest. Very enjoyable ground, as is the case with every BMW product, but only the format is different. This is certainly not a flaw, quite the opposite. The only real problem is the certain lack of flavour that sets a vehicle apart, that makes it truly unique. If it had been up to me to dream up the X3, it would’ve been exactly like my tester. Super dynamic, super enjoyable, but just like all the other Bimmers out there.
Striking a balance
One of the X3’s numerous advantages is its compact format. It’s just the right size for zipping around, especially in town. The AWD won’t see you safely across any trails, but it’s perfect for rigorous Canadian climates. Snow-covered roads and challenging driving conditions? Don’t make me laugh. What’s more, the car’s very sporty nature is in no way toned down by the all-wheel drive. As it is a BMW, extraordinary driving dynamics set the X3 apart. The combination of good shock absorption and a stiff suspension make for a very comfortable ride. Handling is naturally nothing short of exemplary, again leaving the competition in the dust.
Among other notable attributes is the ultra-precise steering, once again in the image of every other Beemer. The brakes are a tad overenthusiastic, so much so that it took me three days to get used to them. The transmission works hand in hand with the engine. The six speeds flow into each other, so subtly you almost forget there’s a transmission at all. In fact, the mechanical components are so well linked that they seem to be but one.
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| The X3 is very enjoyable, as is the case with every BMW product, but only the format is different. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
After having driven nearly every conceivable BMW model over the last few years, when I slid behind the wheel of the X3 I felt like I was on familiar ground. A little too familiar, to be honest. Very enjoyable ground, as is the case with every BMW product, but only the format is different. This is certainly not a flaw, quite the opposite. The only real problem is the certain lack of flavour that sets a vehicle apart, that makes it truly unique. If it had been up to me to dream up the X3, it would’ve been exactly like my tester. Super dynamic, super enjoyable, but just like all the other Bimmers out there.
Striking a balance
One of the X3’s numerous advantages is its compact format. It’s just the right size for zipping around, especially in town. The AWD won’t see you safely across any trails, but it’s perfect for rigorous Canadian climates. Snow-covered roads and challenging driving conditions? Don’t make me laugh. What’s more, the car’s very sporty nature is in no way toned down by the all-wheel drive. As it is a BMW, extraordinary driving dynamics set the X3 apart. The combination of good shock absorption and a stiff suspension make for a very comfortable ride. Handling is naturally nothing short of exemplary, again leaving the competition in the dust.
Among other notable attributes is the ultra-precise steering, once again in the image of every other Beemer. The brakes are a tad overenthusiastic, so much so that it took me three days to get used to them. The transmission works hand in hand with the engine. The six speeds flow into each other, so subtly you almost forget there’s a transmission at all. In fact, the mechanical components are so well linked that they seem to be but one.
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| To get this long-legged city crawler moving, BMW suggests two six-cylinder mills, respectively generating 215 and 260 hp. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |