2004 BMW X3 3.0i Road Test

Throwing the X3 into a corner rewards with plenty of road feel and agreeable understeer when the limits of adhesion are

The Sport package increases handling, but at the expense of a comfortable ride. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

impending. At this point in the arc, a smooth application of the throttle and a little more twist of the wheel will glue the X3 to the intended line, thanks in part to BMW's new xDrive technology. The X3 generates very little front-end plow due to its well-balanced chassis and sturdy underpinnings, the sturdiness of which can be overbearing at times. You guessed it; all this handling performance comes at a price. In the X3 3.0i's case, with sport suspension, the price is both cash and comfort based. The cash we'll leave until the end, the comfort issue we'll put out there now.

The X3 rides upon a fully independent suspension setup that shares DNA with the much revered 3-Series architecture. The beefed up settings in the X3 include coil springs at all four corners, with struts and an anti-roll bar up front and a multi-link setup with an anti-roll bar out back. As mentioned, my test unit was equipped with the sport package, which ups the calibration of these assemblages in order to produce razor sharp handling. In the process, ride comfort flies out the window like cash on rent day. Yes, I love terrific handling vehicles, but I love my internal organs and spine more. For that reason, I would opt for the regularly suspended X3 3.0i should I find myself in need of a triple-scoop automotive treat. But ride comfort versus handling is a personal thing, rather like boxers versus briefs. To prospective purchasers I would recommend spending a day with each to ensure that whichever is chosen, sport or not, strikes the balance that's right for them and their anatomy.

Although the X3 is not intended for heavy-duty off-road use, evidenced by its lack of skid plates and low range set of gears, it is

Not only does xDrive ensure tenacious traction by instantaneously directing torque to the wheels with grip, it aids in maintaining vehicle stability. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

equipped with BMW's latest in all-wheel drive technology, xDrive. Not only does xDrive ensure tenacious traction by instantaneously directing torque to the wheels with grip, it aids in maintaining vehicle stability in the event control is lost due to poor road surfaces or excessive cornering speed. Helmut Riedl, BMW Group chassis director commented, "xDrive is the perfect system for maximizing the driving enjoyment of BMW's Sports Activity Vehicles. Through its variable distribution of drive, front-to-rear, it offers intelligent power as an antidote to loss of control, rather than braking or power reduction via DSC (Dynamic Stability Control). xDrive keeps the fun in driving."