2004 BMW X3 3.0i Road Test

In designing the X3, BMW made sure the "apple didn't fall far from the tree." The X3 exhibits visual cues that confirm its

Based largely on the 3-Series sedan, the X3 grille conforms to the expected bi-kidney design. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Bavarian Motor Works heritage. Based largely on the 3-Series sedan, the X3 grille conforms to the expected bi-kidney design. In addition to its similarities with the 3-Series, the X3 shows a familial resemblance to its larger sibling, the X5, which was introduced to us in 1999. This blending of established design elements with lines exclusive to the X3 creates an SUV with a little bite and attitude, which I like. Although step-in height is increased over that of its sedan kin, taking a seat in the X3, or leaving it, is effortless thanks to the added elevation. Once situated behind the wheel, driver sightlines are improved over those encountered by drivers of conventional 3-Series sedans, or worse yet, low slung roadsters such as the Z4; score another benefit derived from the three-scoop concept.

BMW designers and engineers definitely had their "Wheaties" the day they penned the X3's interior layout and architecture. Optimal use was made of the compact SUV's limited overall dimensions. As amazing as a David Copperfield illusion, the engineers managed to provide rear seat passengers with more legroom and headroom than granted in the larger BMW X5. Crowning the illusion is the slightly larger cargo-hold of the smaller X3. At 480-liters with the rear seats upright and 1,560-liters when the

Amazingly, the engineers managed to provide rear seat passengers with more legroom and headroom than granted in the larger BMW X5. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

split-folding seats are dropped, the X3's cargo area is 15-liters and 10-liters larger respectively.

But the X3's interior generosity is not limited to spatial needs. All five seating positions deliver a healthy dose of comfort, but it's the front buckets that come as part of the Sport Package that reign supreme. The leather clad front seats in my tester offered the firm support expected in Germanic automobiles, while also featuring seat cushions with extendable front edges necessary for increasing thigh support for the vertically gifted. I don't understand why so few manufacturers provide this most welcome adjustment - maybe it's more culturally specific than I thought! Regardless of cultural characteristics, these optional sport seats also provided much needed side bolstering, necessary given the X3's penchant for rapid deviations in direction.