2004 BMW X3 3.0i Sports Activity Vehicle
Automatic and 6-speed Manual Transmissions
A Friendly Younger Brother

Susan Frissell

Driving the BMW X3 3.0i small SUV is a lot more pleasant than driving its big brother the X5. Or so we thought. A very friendly sport-ute, the X3 handles well and tightly, has a very adequate turning circle and is a tad less stiff than the X5. Aimed at the active lifestyle generation, X3 came on the scene with lots of fanfare. I can remember running a 5K last year and BMW was there with the "new" X3 on display, handing out information and goodies to promote it. The younger set lined up three-deep to get a chance to become part of the BMW network.

More than ever, BMW seems to have wide appeal to the late 20s-30-something generation. I guess you could count in the 40-somethings too, particularly the male gender. BMW always had its own niche buyer, which kept it kind of sacred. Not considered a car for the masses in past years, BMW now seems to be aiming at a larger market. Hence, the X3.

The X3 SUV isn’t exactly an "affordable" sport-ute, or special purpose vehicle. Our test model carried a MSRP of $36,300, with a total vehicle price of $42,670, destination charge $695. One might expect to pay that for the X5. In our opinion, it’s a steep price to pay for a vehicle in this category. But then, our test vehicle came equipped with several options, including the Cold Weather Package, $750, Premium Package, $3,300, Automatic transmission, $1,275, and privacy glass, $350.

The X3 offers a choice of two inline six-cylinder engines (2.5i, 3.0i), both available with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. Sporty and agile, X3 is classed as a Sports Activity Vehicle meant for those with active lifestyles. Our test car came with the optional automatic transmission and BMW’s Adaptive Transmission Control. By selecting "D" you get the Adaptive Control and when selecting "Sport" mode the car shifts into higher rpm, or STEPTRONIC mode for clutchless shifting.

Its long wheelbase makes for a comfortable ride as well as a roomier interior. With increased cargo space, drivers can haul all their equipment, from bikes to canoes. Three adults can fairly comfortably sit in the rear, and with the X3’s unusual sunroof configuration, all passengers can enjoy the open air, or just those in the rear or those in the front can.

X3 has a fording clearance of 19.7 inches enabling it to go off-road and through shallow streams. With its xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Hill Descent Control feature, the X3 is rather nimble. Its signature BMW twin kidney grille and aggressive stance make the X3 unmistakably BMW.

Several optional packages are available on the X3, including those listed above and the Sport Package, which includes 18-inch Star Spoke wheels, sport suspension, shadowline trim, 8-way power sport seats, and three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel. One of the available features that appealed to us is the adaptive headlights. They turn in the direction the car is headed allowing for better visibility around curves at night.

We also drove the standard 6-speed manual transmission X3 and found it to be just as satisfying as the automatic. The clutch is a tad touchy, but easily operated and the gears shift like butter. This is an easy manual to drive and one rarely needs to shift into sixth gear unless cruising at top highway speeds. The X3’s interior is roomy (not something one used to associate with BMW) and comments from passengers were very positive. This is a comfortable sport-ute and its nimbleness makes it easy to drive on a daily basis. We found that passing onlookers brought smiles, thumbs ups and general stares indicating its popularity, especially among the younger crowd. It’s just a right of passage to aspire to driving a BMW product and the X3 is no exception.

Of course the X3 comes equipped with the latest safety technology, including BMW’s Head Protection System, an inflatable tubular structures that provides protection by keeping occupants’ heads from hitting the side window, or objects penetrating the side window. Other standard safety equipment includes advanced airbag system, dynamic stability control, dual front door-mounted side-impact airbags, front safety belts with automatic pretensioners and force limiters and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

As with all BMW products, leather seating in the X3 is top of the line, comfortable and durable. Controls are easily reached and operated and the sound system (AM/FM/Stereo CD) is more than adequate. The X3 is wired for cell phone alarm system, CD changer, garage door opener and auxiliary input. There’s plenty of storage space in the X3 (on the dashboard, doors and in the rear), but we would like to see a bigger cupholder, one that could accommodate a closed coffee mug.

All passengers enjoyed riding in the X3 and offered positive comments: Nice ride, comfortable, great size, etc. The X3 doesn’t disappoint. Except maybe in pricing.

2004 Copyright. Susan Frissell. Women With Wheels. All Rights Reserved.