Bavarian Motor Works' X3 is an all-wheel-drive crossover-type vehicle that combines a sporty sedan with the toughness of a sport utility vehicle. Built for the contemporary family's ramped-up travel requirements, the X3 provides responsive handling in stylish comfort, with roomy rear accommodations that ensure everyone enjoys the ride. Exceptional attention to passenger safety plus BMW's reputation for superior quality overrides the higher cost for the X3 over similar competitors' models for upscale families who are looking for premium features that accommodate a busy and eclectic lifestyle.
The German-designed, U.S.-assembled, X3 seats 5 comfortably. The standard xDrive all-wheel-drive platform facilitates exceptional response in both dry road and wet weather conditions. During... View more standard driving, the xDrive system splits power between front and back wheels 40/60 to deliver a fun and sporty rear-powered effect. When encountering inclement weather challenges, however, the distribution switches to safety over sporty, with full power reverting to either axle as needed to provide a trouble-free ride. The base turbo-charged 3.0L, 6-cylinder inline engine chalks up 19 mpg in town, 26 mpg on the open road, and can tow up to 1.5 tons.
The product of several years' refinement of BMW's pioneering X5 crossover was first introduced to a receptive public in 1999. BMW has not only compacted the size of its 2011 crossover vehicle but has extensively boiled down handling, efficiency, and technological aspects of the X3 to offer the best essence of its original idea. The 2011 X3 puts complaints regarding sluggish handling of previous model years to rest. While several competing auto makers have adopted the crossover as their own, experts argue that the 2011 BMW X3 has taken the concept to new heights.
The interior amenities of the X3 are hard for competitors to touch, as well. Premium materials and three dimensional conceptualization craft a luxury car interior. The signature BMW driver's cockpit provides all the pertinent information in an easy-to-read, yet harmoniously-integrated design. High-tech instrumentation includes the largest crossover vehicle monitor available for ease of reading, plus a fully-functional navigation system.
U.S. News & World Report ranked the 2011 BMW X3 in its top five best Luxury Compact SUVs. The X3 also garnered international red dot honorable mention for outstanding design. Safety features include traction control, stability control, and standard airbag surround. A powerful combination of superior design, handling, safety and stability makes the BMW X3 a top contender in the 2011 crossover market. View less
