The X3 rides like a car. To be more precise, it feels like a BMW but with a slightly higher center of gravity. In other words, the drive is very dynamic. The suspension is taut and insures constant contact with the tarmac. On a
smooth road, in curves and especially on the highway, the X3 moves as though it is bolted to the road. On the other hand, a rough road-surface will forcefully transmit vibrations into the passenger compartment.
The chassis is incredibly stiff. Passengers inside the truck will immediately recognize this fact as the BMW moves as a unit. The way the doors close, the way everything works in unison, the X3 feels like a small, incredibly manoeuvrable tank. I only found one minute rattle during my days with the X3 and it came from the passenger-side door.
Safety
The X3 has standard dual front, side and side curtain air bags, ABS brakes, stability control and seatbelt pre-tensionners. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) nor the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) have rated the X3.
Conclusion
The X3 is a worthy answer to the question that no one ever asked: Can
BMW create one of the best driving compact SUVs on the market? The reason for its existence can only be found in the desire that the North Americans have for SUVs. With the existence of the 3-series Touring wagon, the only advantage to the X3 is an increase in cargo capacity. In my opinion, it will surely kill the already weak demand for the 325iT.
BMWs are known as the Ultimate Driving Machines. No one will ever be able to say differently except maybe for those that have driven one with BMW's Active steering. I will hopefully get back to you on this subject in the near future. The issue with BMWs is long-term reliability. The last half-decade has seen many problems arise with the X5s and the 7-series where electronics are concerned. The 3-series seems to have been spared from these inconveniences. The only thing I might suggest is that if you plan on keeping the truck past its basic warranty, is to purchase extended coverage from the manufacturer.
Good stuff:
Drives like a BMW
Quality and prestige
Not so good stuff:
High price for a small package
3.0L engine short on gusto
 |
The chassis is incredibly stiff. Passengers inside the truck will immediately recognize this fact as the BMW moves as a unit. The way the doors close, the way everything works in unison, the X3 feels like a small, incredibly manoeuvrable tank. I only found one minute rattle during my days with the X3 and it came from the passenger-side door.
Safety
The X3 has standard dual front, side and side curtain air bags, ABS brakes, stability control and seatbelt pre-tensionners. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) nor the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) have rated the X3.
Conclusion
The X3 is a worthy answer to the question that no one ever asked: Can
 |
BMWs are known as the Ultimate Driving Machines. No one will ever be able to say differently except maybe for those that have driven one with BMW's Active steering. I will hopefully get back to you on this subject in the near future. The issue with BMWs is long-term reliability. The last half-decade has seen many problems arise with the X5s and the 7-series where electronics are concerned. The 3-series seems to have been spared from these inconveniences. The only thing I might suggest is that if you plan on keeping the truck past its basic warranty, is to purchase extended coverage from the manufacturer.
Good stuff:
Drives like a BMW
Quality and prestige
Not so good stuff:
 |
High price for a small package
3.0L engine short on gusto
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