2012 BMW X3
Starting MSRP $37,100–$42,700
By Cars.com Staff
Cars.com National July 19, 2011Vehicle Overview
The X3, a compact luxury crossover, was redesigned for 2011 for the first time since its 2004 introduction. With a slightly larger size, a new eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the five-seater combines BMW's signature driving prowess with the utility of a crossover. With numerous additions came one major deletion: A manual transmission is no longer offered. The X3 competes with luxury crossovers like the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, Cadillac SRX and Infiniti EX35.
New for 2012
An M Sport Package includes body-colored bumpers and side skirts, specific wheels and a sport-tuned suspension. BMW Applications, which allows a variety of iPhone apps to run through the iDrive system, is a $250 option.
Exterior
The X3's sculpted hood reflects BMW's design direction. Compared with the previous generation, the wheelbase is longer and it rides higher. It is also longer and wider than the previous version. Exterior features include:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Available 18- or 19-inch wheels
- Available panoramic moonroof
- Optional power liftgate
- Optional headlight washers
Interior
Cabin space increased with the redesign, especially in leg- and elbowroom. The standard 60/40-split backseat can be folded down to expand the cargo volume. As an option, buyers can choose a 40/20/40-split backseat that allows any segment to be folded independently for maximum flexibility. Interior features include:
- Standard automatic climate control
- Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
- Optional heated steering wheel and heated seats
- USB adapter
- Standard 12-speaker stereo
- Leather upholstery optional
Under the Hood
Two engines are offered in the X3: a 240-horsepower, 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder in the xDrive28i trim level and a 300-hp, turbocharged inline-six in the xDrive35i. BMW estimates zero-to-60-mph times are 6.7 seconds and 5.5 seconds, respectively.
The standard xDrive all-wheel-drive system sends 60 percent of the torque to the rear wheels for a balanced, rear-wheel-drive feel. It can also shift as much as 100 percent to the rear automatically under certain conditions. Mechanical features include:
- Eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control
- Optional adaptive suspension
Safety
Standard safety features include:
- Side-impact airbags for the front seats
- Side curtain airbags
- Electronic stability system
- Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes
- Traction control
Additional Reviews
Cars.com Expert Reviews
| Mike Hanley | Cars.com National | October 15, 2011 |
| Cars.com Staff | Cars.com National | July 19, 2011 |
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