2004 BMW X3 Reviews

Ewan Kennedy reviews the 2004-2015 BMW X3 as a used buy. BMW was one of the early prestige companies to spot the surge in interest in SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles). Realising that most SUV buyers aren't interested in exploring off-road trails but wanted a tall station wagon BMW calls its vehicles SAVs, (Sports

It’s not just we Aussies and the Yanks that love their SUVs, Europeans have really been getting into them in recent years; and the big name German marques have quickly cottoned onto the boom in these handy vehicles. BMW began its SUV range with the X5 and has gradually worked its way down in size with new models X3 and finally the X1. The reduction in size was caused by the realisation by car makers that most SUV buyers aren’t interested in exploring the wilds of their respective countries, rather they want a capacious station wagon with a driving position that’s higher than cars’.Note that BMW would like us to call its vehicles SAVs, standing for Sports Activity Vehicle, but no-one seems particularly interested in that acronym so we will stick with SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle).The midsize BMW X3 is the subject of this week’s article as it’s proving very popular in recent times. In Australia around one third of all BMW sales are in SUVs. The biggest seller is the X5, but the X3, introduced here in July 2004, is holding its own in the sales race. Interestingly, the second generation X3, sold from March 2011, is significantly larger than the original and is within a few centimetres of the first-generation X5 in many dimensions.If you’re looking for a family car the gen-two BMW X3 has ample legroom for those in the rear seat and three children will find they have good shoulder room. Boot space is good and the luggage areas are well shaped and easy to load in all X3 models.As there’s almost no demand for a BMW that can go off road, the suspension guys have gone for handling and comfort ahead of traction on unsealed surfaces. Clever electronics, further enhanced on the gen-two X3, do give it more grip in harsh going than you might expect.Four and six-cylinder engines are offered in petrol and diesel format. BMW has long been a specialist in turbocharged engines and both the petrol and diesel units work well. There’s the usual lag before things start to really motor well, but once the engines are past that stage they are beautifully responsive.Though the diesels are the more economical we do have a preference for turbo-petrol engines as they just love to rev way up in the scale, whereas the diesels give up in the high 4000s. Even better are the naturally aspirated straights sixes - one of our all time favourite powerplants. These are offered in 2.5 and 3.0-litre capacity.Six-speed manual gearboxes were offered in the early days, but were never popular and disappeared from the new-car price list during 2008. If you’re keen on DIY gearshifting you may find a few manuals have been privately imported. Be sure a private import meets all areas of Australian regulations.Automatic transmissions began with five forward speeds in 2004, this increased to six in 2006, then eight in the all-new model of 2011. There are manual overrides that give you a fair bit of control as BMW has long been an expert in sporting automatics.BMW is long established in Australia and has a well organised dealer network. The concentration is on major metro areas but there are quite a few in country cities and even large country towns. Spare parts are relatively expensive, but no more so than others in this class of SUV. We seldom here any real complaints about availability. Similarly, insurance costs aren’t low, but you generally seem to get value for money.Do it yourself work on an SUV like this should be left to minor items only. These are complex cars with a multitude of electronic items and should be left to BMW dealers. There are some ex-BMW mechanics in private practise and owners speak very highly of them, however, they may not have access to the very latest information or changes to the X3.WHAT TO LOOK FORThe BMW X3 is generally trouble free, but it makes sense to buy a used one with a full service history. The car will have been in contact by way of the internet with the technical departments in the German head office each time it was serviced at an official dealership.The use of incorrect tyres can cause problems with the transfer case due to incorrect rolling radii. Make a note of the details of tyres then contact BMW for a list of recommended tyres. If you suspect one has been off the beaten track - a rare event - examine the bumper corners, doors sills and undertray for damage - or choose an X3 that hasn’t beaten about the bush.Make sure a petrol engine starts almost instantly, or a diesel within a couple of seconds. Slow starting can indicate real problems. An inspection of the interior, including the luggage area will reveal that a car has been used as a workhorse for carting kids or other heavy-duty stuff.CAR BUYING TIPCars aimed at those who really like to drive may have been thrashed. Blindingly obvious? Yes, but too few buyers take this into account when falling in love with a potential new car. 

Once the X5, BMW's SUV breakthrough model had blazed a trail across our 4WD landscape it was to be expected that the company would follow it up with a more compact model. That was the X3 and it arrived in 2004.The X3 slotted in below the X5 in much the same way the 3-Series fitted into the passenger car range underneath the 5-Series.It looked much the same as its larger cousin, but was smaller, and cost heaps less. While it had the BMW corporate look the tough chunky look that made the X5 attractive was lost, the X3 looked wimpy by comparison.Buyers could choose between two six-cylinder petrol engines and a turbo-diesel. The base petrol engine was a 2.5-litre unit boasting 141kW and 245Nm, the larger one 3.0 litres putting out 170kW and 300Nm. The diesel option was a 3.0-litre turbocharged six that put out 160kW and 480Nm.There was a 6-speed manual gearbox available, but only on the 2.5-litre model; all others had an automatic transmission with the option of manual shifting.Final drive was full-time four-wheel drive with BMW's xDrive system to maintain grip in slippery going.Underneath the suspension was independent all round, the brakes were discs with ABS, the alloy wheels were wrapped in all-round rubber, and the spare was only a space-saver.Inside the X3 had all you could desire with the list of standard features including automatic air-conditioning, cruise, remote central locking, leather trim, multi-function steering wheel, power mirrors and windows and CD sound.IN THE SHOPThe jury is out on BMW durability. The build quality is high, and they certainly look the goods sitting in the showroom, but history suggests that cars with the blue-and-white spinner badge can become expensive as the kays climb. If you choose to get into one it's best to do it when the kays are low and get out again before the bills start to roll in.Look for an independent specialist to have the servicing done, as dealers tend to be very expensive. Same goes for parts. Bought from a dealer parts are expensive, but relief can be found with the independents who are able to source much cheaper parts that still do the job.Servicing is critical so make sure any prospective purchase has had the required maintenance. Look for oil leaks around the engine, and coolant leaks from the radiator.IN A CRASHWith a comprehensive array of active and passive safety features the X3 was given 4 stars out of a possible five by ANCAP.Active features include ABS braking, traction control, electronic stability control and hill descent control, while passive safety is well covered by a combination of dual front airbags, head and side airbags.UNDER THE PUMPNothing special on the petrol front with the 2.5-litre averaging in the mid- to high-11s by BMW's own claim, and the 3.0-litre returning low-12s.On Carsguide's test the 2.5i auto returned an average of 11.8L/100km, bang on the BMW claim.The turbo diesel was the way to go for economy with an average claimed of 8.6L/100km. BMW recommended 98-octane premium unleaded for the petrol models, but have approved E10 ethanol blend for the X3.AT A GLANCEPrice new: $67,900 to $74,600Engine: 2.5-litre six-cylinder petrol, 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol, 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo dieselPower/torque: 141 kW/245 Nm (2.5), 170 kW/300 Nm (3.0), 160 kW/480 Nm (TD)Transmissions: 5-speed auto, 6-speed auto, 6-speed man, 4WDEconomy: 11.2/11.9 L/100 km (2.5 man/auto), 12.1 L/100 km (3.0), 8.6 L/100 km (TD)Body: 5-door wagonVariants: 2.5i, 3.0i, 3.0d (from 2005)Safety: 4-star ANCAPVERDICT Smaller, cheaper version of popular X5 set a new benchmark for compact SUVs.

When I was handed the keys to the X3, I thought it would be like driving about town in a shrunken version of the X5.Kind of a mini-me soft-roader with a bit less flair and a bit more lair. The automotive equivalent of comparing Prince William and Prince Harry.That was always going to prove a rather broad statement, as, like the royals, these cars may share a similar gene pool but the two variants differ wildly.This isn't immediately obvious if you simply look at their exteriors. Side by side, the X3 is slightly smaller, lacks the deep crease down the flanks of the X5, and is narrower when both are viewed from front on.But it's similar enough that it fooled more than one person during my time behind the wheel into asking: "So what's the X5 like?"For the record, the X5 is an absolute gem. So much so, that in its various guises it consistently rates at, or near, the top of luxury 4WD comparison tests.A week at the wheel of an optioned-up 4.4i – powered by a V8 adapted from the 745i sedan – shows what a luxury cruiser this is on and off the bitumen.It handled a gallop up the freeway to Newcastle as well as any luxury car, and is one of the quietest, most comfortable vehicles in its class.The six-speed automatic gearbox is a fab match, providing consistently smooth acceleration through the range and not wasting any of the 235kW on tap in this version.The suspension set-up features an electronically controlled self-levelling system at the rear. It helps conquer the excessive body roll that makes many high-set 4WDs feel as if you're stuck in steerage on a ferry across Bass Strait.The return journey through logging trails in the Watagan State Forest provided a good test of the' X5's off-road credentials, with BMW's xDrive system working flawlessly.BMW reckons xDrive is almost "clairvoyant".Hyperbole aside, it does do a damn fine job of regulating power between axles, with the Dynamic Stability Control system then apportioning power to the individual wheels that most need it.Inside, the X5 is a class act, with levels of comfort and the type of refined interior BMW is famous for, ranging from the wood inlay in the dash through to the soft Nappa leather seats.Stepping straight from the X5 into the X3, you immediately notice the difference in style and size: it's more jeans than jodhpurs.The X3 is narrower, andBMWhas gone for a funky feel with aluminium-look details, an oddment storage net for the passenger and plastic fittings that don't quite match the standards of the X5.Beneath the hood you can choose a 2.5-litre, 141kW straight six or a threelitre, 170kW powerplant.The 2.5-litre comes with either a sixspeed manual box or five-speed auto; the three-litre model is auto only.The three-litre test car was a lively performer, but at higher speeds it seemed overly keen to chop between gears if your speed deviated even a little.Handling is fine, but you do notice the narrower track and greater body roll if you push it hard into corners.During a short romp through some muddy trails on the edge of Sydney, the xDrive system again proved itself although ground clearance, at slightly more than 200mm in both models, means it's not too difficult to scrape the belly of these beasts.In the end, the X3 is a handy performer, but is it a contender or a wannabe?Starting price for the 2.5-litre X3 is $65,300, while the base X5 lists at $81,400 and the impressive six-cylinder turbo diesel X5 is a steal at $81,900.The price gap hardly seems big enough to warrant choosing the youngster, and BMW must have been a bit concerned before the X3's launch that it could cannibalise X5 sales.This hasn't happened, however, with VFACTS figures for July showing 151 X3s were sold and X5 sales stayed much the same at 227. In July, 2003, the X5 sold 216, so this modest increase is really a double win for BMW.In the end, the extra $16,000 you pay for an X5 is easily justified, but as BMW knows, there are a significant number of people out there for whom $80,000 is just too steep a price to pay – especially if you begin ticking the options boxes and watch the price climb towards $100,000.With the launch of its 1-Series small car in October, BMW will be hoping it doesn't eat into sales of its bread-andbutter 3-Series range.Although the price of the upmarket 120i is yet to be announced, the 118i – not slated to go on the market until 2005 – is expected to be below $40,000.

And with sales of sports utility vehicles also out of control, BMW cannot get enough X5s in any configuration to satisfy demand.So it is that the compact X3 four-wheel-drive has been introduced here.It's not much smaller than an X5, but substantially cheaper. And it just may satisfy those who want a luxury SUV for its wagon shape and convenience, rather than its off-road ability.Those buyers will certainly not be disappointed with the X3 urban wagon.It's great on our city streets where it points and darts with a nimbleness belying its size.Jump in behind the wheel and there is a very 3 Series feel about the cockpit. Almost sporty.However, set the wheels in motion and it drives and handles nothing like a 3 Series.And neither should it. The X3 has permanent four-wheel-drive (called xDrive) that varies power distribution to the front and rear as needed, so it doesn't understeer and oversteer like the rear-wheel-drive 3 Series.Despite having the same body dimensions as many compact SUVs on the market, such as the Toyota RAV-4, Nissan X-Trail and Honda CR-V, it has a longer wheelbase which gives it far better ride.It also doesn't bounce over speed bumps. The BMW takes them on at speed without hesitation and sorts itself out quick-smart afterwards, rather than bouncing down the road.And there is little body language in the corners, the X3 sitting flat and in control.But the sophisticated suspension and chassis calls on the little 2.5-litre engine to do much more than it can.Plant your foot and it screams like a banshee without much response from the speedo.For an extra $9300, the three-litre engine is a better option for those demanding performance.Although it takes a second look to tell an X3 from an X5, the little guy seems a bit sharper than its tired big brother, sitting lower and sportier than most other compact SUVs. Only that grille and back door retain a spartan ugliness.Inside, there is a functional and uncluttered dashboard, efficient instrumentation and all the cruise and audio controls on the steering wheel where they should be.It feels cosier than the X5, yet there is good room in the back and plenty of luggage space.The auto box is adequate, but the sequential shifter is on the slow side.Brakes are strong with all the usual BMW auto assistance, yet giving good progressive feel to the driver.Fuel consumption is erratic with a huge disparity between city and highway driving, thanks to the underpowered engine which has to work so much harder to get going in traffic.The stated figures of 17L/100km around town and 9L on the highway seem about right. The manual apparently does much better.As for its off-road ability, it is handy on unsealed roads where it rallies well, but don't expect it to climb rocks, wade through water over 500mm or crest dunes.If you want to dress it up for an urban assault, expect to pay big dollars: options include park distance controls ($1680), sport suspension ($400), metallic paint ($1700), panorama sun roof ($3300), adaptive headlights ($2970) and navigation system ($6990).

The arrival of the compact X3 was as inevitable as the sequel to the X-Men movie, which includes an entertaining reprise outing by Hugh Jackman as the nasty but nice Wolverine.The X3 is a bit like that. An entertaining romp. The same basic plot in a new package. But no nasty with the nice.We're still waiting to hear if an X1 will roll in alongside the baby 1 Series from BMW, but the X3 is here now and about to do a great job for people who have looked longingly at the X5 but have been unable to afford the $81,900 starting price for the 3.0-litre turbodiesel or $118,000 for the V8 version.The X3 has plenty of bait for the hook. It is a classy compact wagon that seats five adults, has a choice of six-cylinder engines, comes with permanent all-wheel drive and BMW's xDrive system to handle low-grip situations, and is built to BMW quality standards with plenty of standard equipment, starting from $65,300.The X3's size is deceptive – it bears an uncanny resemblance to the X5. Then again, some say it looks like a Toyota RAV4.Whatever, it has enough bulk to line up handily against such rivals as the Lexus RX330, the Honda MD-X and Jeep's Grand Cherokee, which are in a similar price category for prestige four-wheel-drive buyers. Some people will also consider it against an X5, and the range of rivals could easily run to the Subaru Outback or the new Ford Territory.The mechanical package includes two hi-tech sixes, a 2.5 with 141kW and a 3.0-litre with 170kW, though the 2.5i X3 is the only model available with a manual gearbox. Otherwise it's all auto, with tiptronic touch change for manual work.The suspension, as you would expect, is fully independent and there are anti-skid four-wheel disc brakes with meaty alloy wheels and dual-purpose tyres – though the spare is only a space saver – as well as a full pack of BMW electronics for stability control, traction and braking.The X3 2.5i opens the price run at $65,300 with the manual gearbox. It comes with automatic air-con, 10 airbags, a leather-wrap steering wheel with cruise control, automatic headlamps, an on-board computer and CD radio, all of which makes it a reasonable deal.If you want the 3.0i you'll be looking for $74,600 before extras.ON THE ROADThe X5 has been our four-wheel-drive benchmark since the day it arrived. It's costly, sure, but it is the vehicle that most all-paw shoppers – not adventurers, but weekend hobbyists – would like to have in the driveway.A Toyota LandCruiser is the best for the big Outback trip, the X5 is the one for doers with dollars.The X3 is much the same, only in a smaller and slightly more responsive package. It still looks like a wagon and has enough meat to make an impact, but it drives like a high-rider car.It's a lot less expensive than an X5 – we would never say cheaper – but still pretty costly when you can have a Subaru Outback from less than $40,000.The dollars buy an extremely well-built car – heft the mount for the roll-out luggage cover and you get the feel – and it carries five adults in relative comfort. It's also well-equipped, though our X3 2.5i jumped to $71,750 by the time the automatic gearbox, wonderful panorama sunroof and alloy running boards were added.The X3 doesn't really need tweaking, even if the full-length glass sunroof is great for brightening a winter day. It could be too much of a good thing in summer.The 2.5i gets along pretty handily. It has a smooth response and solid overtaking push, and the touch-change auto is as nice – or nicer – than most five-speed manuals. It's relatively good at the pumps, too, averaging 11.8 litres/100km on test.Handling is well-balanced and predictable and the X3 rides firmly yet with plenty of compliance, and is easy to park. It feels a little nicer than the X5 and has less weight to massage around corners or to stop.There isn't much to quibble about, though the location of the six-stack CD unit in the centre console is silly. It robs the space you'd use for a wallet or nibbles.We didn't find the cabin too inspiring, particularly compared with the classy look and feel of a Lexus RX330, but the seats are comfortable and we really liked the leather-wrapped wheel.Compared with the RX, the X3 is much more masculine. It's not as perky as a 2.5, but feels tougher and more likely to enjoy an off-road romp. It's the same, pretty much, against the Honda MD-X. And on quality and comfort, The X3 could also make a case against the basic model in the Mercedes ML line-up.The X3 is a classy newcomer that's had an instant impact on our four-wheel-drive favourites list.THE BOTTOM LINECONDENSING the benchmark X5 has done a lot more than merely create a German rival for the Toyota RAV4.

BMW's X3 wagon initially will be available with the choice of an entry-level 2.5-litre in-line six-cylinder engine or the meaty 3-litre version of the Munich maker's much lauded six-potter.But this baby BMW wagon will not be burning oil, like its bigger brother, the X5, until much later.BMW says other engine variants may be considered depending on demand.This is one of the first official pictures of the X3, which previously has been shown only in concept form at motor shows.It is too early to be specific about prices, with the X3 breaking ground as the first genuine premium compact offroader.The X3, labelled by BMW as a Sports Activity Vehicle, will make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.The X3 carries a blend of classic and new BMW design cues. There is a relatively long wheelbase with short overhangs and strongly flared wheel arches.Lacking nothing in punch and pulling power and yet retaining a high level of sophistication and smoothness, the 3-litre six develops 170kW. The recently introduced straight-six turbo-diesel engine with second-generation common-rail direct injection produces 150kW and a massive 410Nm of torque.One of the innovations shown on the X3 is the xDrive four-wheel-drive system, which provides infinitely adjustable torque between the front and rear wheels. It can recognise the need to adjust power distribution and respond before the wheels lose grip.Its Dynamic Stability Control kicks in later than on a conventional four-wheel-drive vehicle.This all-terrain vehicle signifies a new class for a lifestyle-orientated, adventure-seeking driver looking for an upmarket escape machine.BMW has a stabiliser system for those who want to tow a trailer or boat.The X3 comes with a standard six-speed gearbox, with the option of a five-speed automatic transmission. Hill Descent Control, a system it inherited when it owned Land Rover, is standard.BMW says the X3 has been engineered for a low centre of gravity to reduce body roll, with the front drive shaft extending through the oil sump.Europe and North America will be first to get the X3 early next year. Australia will get the car next winter.