What is it?
2004 BMW X3
What's special about it?
Essentially a downsized version of the BMW's popular X5 sport-utility vehicle, the X3 shares its basic dimensions and mechanical components with the long-running 3 Series sedan. Engine choices are the same as well, with base models getting a 184-horsepower inline six-cylinder while top-of-the-line versions get a 3.0-liter version of the same engine good for a more robust 225 horses. To emphasize the fact that the X3 is no lumbering SUV, the standard transmission is a six-speed manual (a five-speed automatic is optional). It's not all sport and no utility, however, as it also features the xDrive system that delivers power to all four wheels as necessary for maximum traction in less than ideal situations. Electronic stability control and Hill Descent Control are also available for added stability on slippery roads or rough terrain.
An elevated driving position gives the X3 the kind of in-command feeling that SUV buyers crave while the interior layout is classic BMW with clear analog gauges and minimal dashboard clutter. The optional navigation screen pops up from the dash to show the way home when necessary and folds away cleanly when you're in familiar territory. There's seating for four (five in a pinch) and a cargo bay littered with numerous storage compartments. It's certainly not the most spacious compact SUV, but its level of luxury and performance will be unmatched when it goes on sale early next year.
Why should you care?
Most compact SUVs offer plenty of utility, but little in the way of luxury of on-road performance. The X3 delivers large helpings of both while maintaining enough all-terrain capability to satisfy the needs of most buyers. If you've always wanted to experience the satisfying feel of a 3 Series sedan but couldn't sacrifice the added utility of an SUV, the X3 will be here soon to answer your prayers. — Ed Hellwig
2004 BMW X3
What's special about it?
Essentially a downsized version of the BMW's popular X5 sport-utility vehicle, the X3 shares its basic dimensions and mechanical components with the long-running 3 Series sedan. Engine choices are the same as well, with base models getting a 184-horsepower inline six-cylinder while top-of-the-line versions get a 3.0-liter version of the same engine good for a more robust 225 horses. To emphasize the fact that the X3 is no lumbering SUV, the standard transmission is a six-speed manual (a five-speed automatic is optional). It's not all sport and no utility, however, as it also features the xDrive system that delivers power to all four wheels as necessary for maximum traction in less than ideal situations. Electronic stability control and Hill Descent Control are also available for added stability on slippery roads or rough terrain.
An elevated driving position gives the X3 the kind of in-command feeling that SUV buyers crave while the interior layout is classic BMW with clear analog gauges and minimal dashboard clutter. The optional navigation screen pops up from the dash to show the way home when necessary and folds away cleanly when you're in familiar territory. There's seating for four (five in a pinch) and a cargo bay littered with numerous storage compartments. It's certainly not the most spacious compact SUV, but its level of luxury and performance will be unmatched when it goes on sale early next year.
Why should you care?
Most compact SUVs offer plenty of utility, but little in the way of luxury of on-road performance. The X3 delivers large helpings of both while maintaining enough all-terrain capability to satisfy the needs of most buyers. If you've always wanted to experience the satisfying feel of a 3 Series sedan but couldn't sacrifice the added utility of an SUV, the X3 will be here soon to answer your prayers. — Ed Hellwig
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