Pros: Sport-sedan-like handling agility; tall windows make for good visibility; decent fuel economy for the level of performance
Cons: Performance-oriented models ride stiffly; stingy levels of standard equipment, and options add up fast
CG Says: The larger of BMW’s compact crossover SUV sees a significant freshening for 2015. The X3 gets updated front-end styling, a revised interior, new available features, and the addition of a rear-wheel drive model and a diesel-engine version. The X3 delivers the sportiness and refinement you expect from the brand in a package that’s small but highly versatile. Non-linear throttle response remains an annoyance, at least on the base xDrive28i model, but this premium-compact SUV has enough other positive attributes to make it worth your consideration. Just keep an eye on the bottom line. Base prices are reasonable, but they quickly move upward when options are added.
| Class | Premium Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | BMW |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | sDrive28i: $39,350 AWD xDrive 28i: $41,350 AWD xDrive 28d: $42,850 AWD xDrive 35i: $46,050 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 240 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 28 |
| Optional Engine turbo-diesel 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 180 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 27 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 34 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder |
| Horsepower 300 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 19 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 26 |
