Not only is occupant safety high on the X3 3.0i's radar, so is comfort and convenience. There is very little that one could
 |
| While the Austrian built X3 may be the best handling SUV on the planet, it isn't cheap. (Photo: BMW Canada) |
wish for that does not arrive as standard equipment in the X3 3.0i. In addition to the likes of heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, tachometer, intermittent wipers, map lights, cargo cover, rear defogger, rear wiper/washer, the 3.0i receives automatic climate control, interior air filter, cruise control, 8-way power front seats, trip computer, rain-sensing wipers, illuminated visor mirrors and automatic headlights. A Premium package adds leather upholstery, front-seat lumbar adjustment, power panorama sunroof, BMW Assist telematics system, wood interior trim, and an automatic day/night rearview mirror; while the as tested Sport Package adds a sport steering wheel, sport seats w/thigh-support adjustment, Shadowline exterior trim, sport suspension, 235/50HR18 tires and unique 18-inch alloy wheels.
So it's time to ante-up the cash for what is perhaps the best handling SUV on the planet. Like I inferred at the beginning, it
 |
| Searing performance, and room for all the groceries make the X3 a sure bet. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
ain't cheap. Although relatively speaking, it isn't out of line either. The MSRP for the X3 3.0i is $49,850, although the junior powered X3 2.5i can be squeezed out for $44,600.
There is no doubt that quality costs money. In the Austrian built X3 there is much quality, henceforth plenty of dough is needed to call it "mine." But in acquiring this more-than-cute-ute, owners will appreciate the versatility and performance, both on-road and off-road the X3 3.0i delivers - all the while, hauling up to five adults and as George Carlin would say, plenty of their "stuff."
