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2005 BMW X3 3.0i Road Test

Compact SUV with Performance-Car Soul

The BMW X3 may have a reasonably strong grip on the compact SUV market but nowhere near as strong as the grip it has on the road when equipped with the optional Sport Package. If there is a compact SUV that puts more "sport" into Sport Utility Vehicle equation, I havent driven it.

What tends to confuse the senses, though, is the X3s high step-in, which results from a lofty 8.0 inches of rock-crawling ground clearance. And therein lies the bemusement; how can a vehicle with such a generous helping of under-chassis atmosphere stay so securely rooted while pushing cornering forces that would launch most competitors into the toolies?

BMW has always considered itself the manufacturer of "ultimate driving machines," so when it came to giving the groundbreaking X5 a little brother, you just had to know that deft handling would be part of the vehicles

What tends to confuse the senses is the X3s high step-in, which results from a lofty 8.0 inches of rock-crawling ground clearance. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

genetic makeup. This is the second X3 3.0i that I have road tested since last year when I complained about the vehicles overly firm ride. Well, like last year, the X3s tenacity for gripping pavement is served-up with a steep price - and Im not only talking greenbacks here. The price for its sensational handling thresholds is levied with each bump in the road. While not being "M3-punishing," the underpinnings of the Sport Package-equipped X3 is too stiff for my preference.

Maybe my lack of tolerance correlates with hair loss and joint pain, but I have come

The price for its sensational handling thresholds is levied with each bump in the road. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

to appreciate the comfort of a smooth, well-controlled ride over hard, jarring performance more and more these days. That said I dont want to find marshmallow-like shock absorber and spring settings in place of competent, independent suspension setups utilizing gas-charged shocks and anti-roll bars front and rear. I guess what I am saying here is hold the Sport Package with its revised spring rates and 18-inch 235/50/HR performance rubber, and give me the smoother ride and luxurious appointments of the X3s Premium Package. With my fastidious "its too bumpy" complaint out of the way, its time to examine BMWs charge into the highly competitive compact SUV/crossover market more closely. The X3 was

The X3 was introduced in late 2003 as a 2004 model, and remains essentially the same for 2005. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

introduced in late 2003 as a 2004 model, and remains essentially the same for 2005. Its definitely one of the sharper looking compact SUVs around, sharing many unmistakable BMW design traits with its X5 sibling. But despite its "premium" SUV status, the X3 isnt fitted with body-colored bumpers or lower cowling. This practice may prevent scratched paint due to off-road use, but in my view detracts from an otherwise appealing appearance. A choice between finished or unfinished bodywork would keep everyone happy; in reality I doubt many X3s see much in the way of paint-threatening use on the way to the stock exchange, other than the careless abuse of parking lot door dingers.

On the inside, the X3 exhibits a sporting flair matching its bold exterior styling. Its dash layout looks quite similar

Its slightly shorter than a Honda CR-V and a full 4.0 inches shorter than the X5, yet the X3 has more interior room, including cargo space than the X5 - go figure. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

to that found in BMWs Z4 roadster and chic 645i. Everything in the X3 is logically placed and all switchgear operates with the precision one would expect from a premium SUV. However, if pressed to recommend improvement I would suggest replacing the myriad of audio and HVAC buttons with simpler-to-use large rotary knobs. Where have all the knobs gone? I know - theyre writing car reviews. Sorry I asked.

The compact exterior dimensions of the X3 conceal a generously proportioned cabin and cargo area. Its slightly shorter than a Honda CR-V and a full 4.0 inches shorter than the X5, yet the X3 has more interior room, including cargo space than the X5 - go figure. In addition to its tighter exterior dimensions, the X3 weighs in the range of 650 lbs less than its older, more expensive brother. And as we all know, less mass generally equates to better fuel economy and greater

A virtue common among BMWs is solid build quality, and as such the X3 falls close to the tree. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

on-road athleticism. Thanks to the X3s many virtues and stout cargo capacity, paying the extra dollop of cash to claim X5 status is making less and less sense, at least until the second generation X5 arrives on the scene.

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