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Used 2004 BMW X3 SUV Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
196 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

Nice Car

Jae Yool Joo, 06/20/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

had a few very minor problems, such as airbag light problem, door locking system problem....but totally it's fun to driving. Totally feeling ultimate dring machine!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Okke's review

Okke, 12/08/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great lively car to drive. It has lots of features but that makes the car a bit too expensive. Car looks smaller than it actually is, which for some people may be a disadvantage. Very easy to drive and handles more like a sportscar than a SUV. BMW calls it a SAV for that reason I suppose.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

NO more vans!

tennis mom, 06/19/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I trully love driving this vehicle. It is so comfortable. There is plenty of room for all our groceries, sport equipment, etc for my active family of 5. I have 2 daughters that now drive and have their own car so it is usually just my son and his friends that I drive around. After 3 vans, this is heaven.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Nice, but .............

ProMariner, 01/06/2005
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I originally started looking at the Cadillac SRX, but didn't like their bundled options and price. I love the styling and performance of the BMW, but there is a lot of room for improvement. The ride is a bit stiff. Acceleration and handling are great making this vehicle fun to drive. This is my first SUV and I couldn't believe the poor gas mileage, on premium fuel! Next, the front door seals protrude into the doorways, making them susceptible to damage during entry/ exit. And the cargo area is poorly lit by a light on the tailgate. If you slam the tailgate too hard, the bulb pops out of its socket! I wish they would pay more attention to the details. Nice, but not worth the $43k price tag.

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5 out of 5 stars

Hudson Valley

Sophie Carter, 06/18/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great Car along with BMW's Great Service

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Disappointed?

SRF25, 06/23/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Ordered metalic Breakwater Blue paint: Paint came through with blemishes on roof: No resolution yet. Interior molding on sunroof keeps hanging down: Doesn't seem to serve any purpose so I removed it.(Velcro strip 20" long) Engine belt tensioner squeals on startup and noise coming from variable valve timing assembly area of engine. (2.5) Not sure if dissatisfaction should be directed at dealer who sold the vehicle or BMW.... Ride is choppy but not intrusive. If you want a smother ride, buy the RX330.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

BMW X3 2.5

Mrtdono, 06/28/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Back Door gives no Warning Light if not Secured. Beware! Alarm Functions are not programed. Veichle Options, should be standard. Other than that the SAV is OK. Not up to PAR for what 3 series comparison.

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5 out of 5 stars

It's fun...

Mikeypny, 06/28/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have had the car for 5 days.. and beside being nervous about leaving it within range of other car doors, It's nothing but fun. Rides very well... handles amazingly, has adequate power-- - comfortable, relatively spacious, and has that new BMW smel--- what more could I want?

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best Performance Small Size SUV

Small BMW Lover, 07/03/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The engine is much smoother than I expected. Good acceleration even with automatic & exceptionally good road holding. Roomy with it's size.

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5 out of 5 stars

BMW X3

skakumu, 12/07/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Experiencing a BMW for the first time, I was impressed. The sound and feel of the engine, the firm handling, and general ambiance of the vehicle. Taking it out on the streets is a thrill, taking it out on the freeway is relaxing. Those who say the ride feels too "harsh," thats understandable seeing what the philosophy of BMW is, to provide firm handling, no matter what. In terms of versatility, it is perfect for a suburban setting; not too big and not too small. From a design point of view, the whole package is refreshing when many designs these days are "cookie-cutters" and do not have a design philosophy behind it. To sum up the BMW X3, simply great.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

The greatest SUV from BMW

Pilotpaul13, 12/10/2003
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It is an awsome car you must drive it

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4.5 out of 5 stars

X3 2.5

54 maxwell, 07/02/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Traded in my Honda Pilot for the BMW X3 and so far I have no regrets. The size is perfect and I like the way it handles. The X3 looks sharp and feels solid.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

X-3

trifc, 07/04/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The X-3 is just what we were looking for in the SUV class. It actually is considered an SAV(Sports Activity Vehicle). We recently had a baby and found the X-3 convenient for transporting all the necesities. We like the smaller size than the X-5 with better handling. The style is sleek and interior is roomy.

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5 out of 5 stars

BMW X3 2.5i

fedenybaires, 07/07/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Amazingly fun to drive. excellent compromise between exterior size and interior room

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Squeaks Like a 2 Horse Wagon

Yard Dog, 07/11/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought the X3 to replace an aging 328i, which stayed in the shop most of the time. Unfortunately, after a week the squeaks and rattles in the X3 were so bad, I had the dealer pick up the car. Now, 2 weeks later I still don't have it back because the dealer is waiting for some kind of part from Germany. To be fair, they have given me a loaner, but that is not the point. I wish I had bought the 4Runner.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

BMW X3

Kelly Ann, 03/24/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It's the best mini SUV you can find. Every peny is worth the spend. Drives like a 325 with lots of room in the back.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great Car!!

mtcpe, 07/11/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My friend has a 2002 330 ci convertable, and after driving my new X3 asked if the dealer had any more outfitted the same! (I had to pry him out of the driver's seat. Love the performance and features. Much nicer size and performance than X5, retains the 3.0 liter 3 series performance. Easy to forget it's a SUV when driving. Great $$program thru BMW financial.

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5 out of 5 stars

what a car

Luciano, 07/08/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bmw hit it big this time with a fun to drive, responsive felling SAV. The X3 is beautifully designed and has all the toys car buyers love this days.It's technology,although many times invisible (Xdrive,Dynamic stability control)gives the driver a sense of security and control. A great alternative to monster sized SUVs. This is a size conscious,performance driven family car.

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5 out of 5 stars

Euro Delivery

Skibuff, 10/21/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Ordered a 2005 and took delivery in Munich on 11 Oct. We spent a week driving through Germany on and off the Autobahns and what a Blast! I love the 6 speed and panoramic roof. Up and down through the Black Forest and along the Rhine for a truly fun time. The last instruction from the delivery center was to keep it under 100 mph and 4500 rpm which was a challenge but even at that, I averaged 20+ mpg. I can't wait for the car to make it from Munich back across the Atlantic. I need to some reprogramming of the automatic adjustments for the seat, mirrors, theft alarm, lights, etc. but that's secondary to the pure fun of driving this nice little piece of German engineering.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Me & My X-3

LG, 08/16/2005
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The X-3 is a very tight riding, solid European car. The exterior styling is beautiful. It handles very well in snow. The moon roof feels like a convertible when opened fully. Gas mileage could be better, but I've used regular gas without any problems. I do not feel the 2.5L engine is underpowered. The interior I have is leatherette and somewhat plain, but spills wipe off easily. The A/C could be a little better. I wish it had a center console. Overall, I'm very happy with my X-3!!

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4.5 out of 5 stars

My birthday present

Sherri L. Meier, 07/12/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I purchased this car the X3, about a month ago. What a pleasure to drive. In a previous life, I was manufacturer's rep and put on 100k miles/2years. I spend alot of time in the car. I feel very secure and safe driving in the crazy Atlanta traffic,

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4.38 out of 5 stars

FIRST TIME BEEMER OWNER

beemergirl, 09/03/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just traded in a toyota corolla for my first BMW. I previously owned a Ford Explorer Sport. The ride is amazing. MPG isn't so bad - appx 20mpg. Definitely worth owning. Dealership was very helpful.

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5 out of 5 stars

ONLY THE BEST

AVERAGE DRIVER, 04/27/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

What do I like most?-Where to begin! How about 4 years free BMW service, 8 air bags, all wheel control, an 8 speaker teriffic stereo/cd/etc. standard, turns like a cat, shifts one can't possibly feel, outrageous engine that's a delight just to listen to, quality abounds even in very hidden areas, a BMW team that will support you no matter what, and a GPS/emergency radio transmitter standard. I could go on but- just drive one. They'll have to pry you out of it!

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5 out of 5 stars

Much more fun than X5!

Beine, 07/13/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This vehicle feels roomier than the first generation of X5's, has a better sunroof, and it's definitely got a nice price. The drive is beyond amazing and there are no blind spots whatsoever. My only issue is that at low speeds, the entire vehicle creaks whenever I make a turn. Maybe it's an SUV/4WD thing. After 6 great years with Audi, it was tough to leave, but they are currently lacking an SUV in their line-up. I love my X3-what a great introduction to BMW!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Happiness is driving a X3

Lusitan, 09/06/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Fun to drive SUV. Excellent handling under any weather conditions.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Awesome Ride

kc2001, 04/30/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Love this SAV. Handling is outrageous! This BMW begs to be driven hard. Sure this SAV might ride a little firmer but at least it doesnt wallow and feel as you though you are in a boat like most SUV's. If you are going to fork over 40+K at least get the leather seats vs vinyl- and of course get it in manual!

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4.25 out of 5 stars

BMW X3

Scott Harley, 09/08/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

First BMW. We had a Toyota 4runner. The X3 is the perfect size car for my wife. Love the sunroof. fair gas mileage of about 27 on first trip. The car handles great. Fit and finish is very good...I can't find any rough spots yet or defects..except for the the transmission computer failure which was replaced in two days and they gave us a loaded 525 to drive. Lucky it kept running until we got it to the garage.

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5 out of 5 stars

Out of Yukon & into fun SUV

Commuter Mom, 03/30/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Kids are off to college, out of the Mom cars yet wanted SUV with trunk space. Traded Yukon in for X3. I test drove Infinit FX, Lexus, Volvo, GMC Envoy. Non compared to the interior room and fun driving ability. This little SUV gets it!!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Nice, fun...

dlflyboy, 07/17/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just purchased this SUV 4 days ago and I love it!! I love it inside and out! This vehicle it very solid.

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2.5 out of 5 stars

Fair Warning....

1st BMW & last, 09/12/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Although we generally like the vehicle's ride, handling, and the sporty design, the constant trips to the dealer (once a month for each month we've owned it) for fixing of constant defects clearly make this $45k car a waste of time money.

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5 out of 5 stars

Went from X5 4.4 to X3 3.0 sport

jzack24, 05/05/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

and have no regrets. This is a great vehicle for the right person. No, it is not cushy. No, it does not have as much wood in its interior as does the X5. But it is not meant to be either. It's a whole lot more fun to drive -- I have a smile on my face everytime. Is it the right vehicle for everyone? No -- but it's perfect for me.

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5 out of 5 stars

New Owner

synclair, 09/28/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

this is a fun vehicle that has a smooth ride. The interior is superub with an oustanding speaker system.

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5 out of 5 stars

Satisfied

wolfy, 09/23/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am enjoying my new X3. I like that I can go anywhere with my new X3. It is agile enough to manover in the city and ruged enough to go off road into the mountains. Very Satisfied, Thanks BMW for a great vehicle.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Just what I've been looking for.

gjones1541, 05/18/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Quicker and less expensive to drive than my 4Runner. It holds the road and handles better than my Miata. I bought the 6 speed and am very happy with the performance, in every respect. I have put 2400 miles on it in all types of driving and conditions (no snow yet), and have yet to be disappointed. I am averaging 20 mpg at an average speed of 34 mph. The cargo capacity is more than enough for the luggage of 4 adults (including 2 women) for a week, and passenger room is much more than I have been used to in other cars. Premium package is worth the cost.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

An die Freude!

Meefischli, 10/31/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

When they say "Ultimate Driving Machine" they ain't just whistling "Beer Barrel Polka"! I was almost dissuaded from buying the X3 by a partially negative review. So glad I dismissed it. Took my new X3 from the showroom on an 800 + mile trek, loving every minute! The vehicle performed flawlessly. Stopped once for breakfast, a few times to gas up...I don't let it go below 1/2 a tank...a couple of stretch breaks. Arrived 12 hours later with my usually painful back feeling great. I expect the return trip to be every bit as enjoyable.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Got Much more than what I expected

Caballeros, 07/08/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I Recently purchased an X3 2.5i not nowing exactly if I bought it because it was a BMW or because it was a car that made sense for me. After a month driving it I relize that I got a lot more than what I expected. I was scared of criticism of a very stiff suspension but is not an issue at all. It is not soft but if that's what you want you don't want a BMW. The standar features make sure that your driving experience is pleasant, fun and safe including all kind of airbags, ABS, DSC, etc. Yeah if you want leather and other gimmicks are extra. But your basic driving needs are covered.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Where's the cream filling?

LoisC, 04/02/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Strongly built vehicle with nice exterior design. Great acceleration in first but lags in higher gears (with automatic)and the engine is loud. Interior is downright chintzy (except for the sport seats). Visability is excellent. Holds the road exceptionally well. Nice cargo space and rear seats fold down flat and easily.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Happy

SUVer in SC, 07/18/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Compared to my last car, Freelander HSE, the X3 is a dream. A quiet ride for the most part. A few distant squeaks associated with the panaromic moonroof. The cargo area is a good size for a small SUV.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Value for the Price

tglennon, 05/25/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The X3 is one of the best luxury SUV-type vehicals I've ever driven. Great handling along with the performance you'd expect from BMW.

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4 out of 5 stars

x3- good deal

fross, 10/06/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is a great value for anyone wanting higher ride than a sedan, a Euro import and fun car. Have had mine for a month and with the exception of a belt that needs to be tightened all is well (knock wood. Spend time with your salesman though... there are may variatons of the X3 and it wasn't until after delivery that I realized there were options I would have liked. On the other hand, do you need radio controls on the wheel, fog lights etc. I saved some $$$. Buy this car if you want this size suv... hands down it's best deal out there

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5 out of 5 stars

Excellent car BMW X3

prash77, 02/24/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great to drive. Very stable and safe. Lives up to "ultimate driving machine" reputation.

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5 out of 5 stars

X3 3.0 the best

krag, 10/09/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

awsome ride! fast. responsive, excellent handling. good looks. more like a sports car than an SUV. BMW makes an excellent engine! highly reccomended. the price is right.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

GREAT AUTOMOBILE

PROFESSIONAL ENGINEE, 04/06/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I traded in a great car for the X-3 (Honda CRV, EX, Automatic) and got a better car. Look anywhere, try any control, try nearly anything with this fine automobile and you'll be thrilled at it's quality and performance.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

It's a NICE RIDE!

Kyle G., 07/27/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love it, personally. It drives like a car, but has the four-wheel drive capabilities of an SUV. Yes, they say it doesn't do too well in off-roading, but I am not about to hit any desert dunes any time soon. The sound system is also incredible, it comes standard with 10 speakers. The peppy engine, comfortable leather seats, and the awesome sound system make for an incredible driving experience. Highly recommend it.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

BMW X-3, 2.5

Montgomery, 07/27/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

the X3 is a dream to drive. More like a sports car than a "truck." Plenty of power, 6-gears and lots of features. The full time 4-wheel drive gives a real feeling of holding the road in all conditions. I live (and drive) in Germany and the X3 is great on all roads, autobahn or winding back paths. My 5th BMW but first SAV. It won't be my last.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Is the X3 just a smaller X5?

jaredfeiger, 01/10/2004
2004 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The X3's performance is outstanding as you would expect from any BMW; however, the interior quality and materials are definitely sub-par for a BMW and come nowhere near matching the X5's much nicer and more expensive interior. Overall, I feel like the car isn't as solid as an X5 (the doors are lighter, it also feels much lighter when you drive it), although it handles very well. For $48,000 fully equipped, you should definitely get more quality for your money, but it is a good vehicle.

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5 out of 5 stars

Pleased

Beamer, 07/10/2006
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is well built and lives up to a top quality vehicle for the open road or city life.

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5 out of 5 stars

PERFECT

FPURKEY, 07/26/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I HAVE OWNED ALOT OF VEHICLES BUT THIS ONE IS BY FAR THE BEST IN PERFORMANCE, COMFORT AND LOOKS. BMW HAS A GREAT ONE IN THIS SUV. THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR LOOK IS EXCELLENT. I LOVE THIS ONE!

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Great Car

baddog123, 07/22/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Overall, love the vehicle. The safety features are incredible. After driving a Jeep cherokee with nothing for safety this is great. Weird quirk-can't open the rear hatch from inside car; must use key. The xenon lights are amazing and truly increase visibility at nite. The dash area wouldn't win any beauty contests, its a bit rustic.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

X3 X-cellent

Rtuchol2, 07/22/2004
2004 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Just purchased the X3, and couldnt be more pleased. I believe that BMW may have some future design changes, but the ultimate perk to the X3 or any BMW is the service plan. You may pay the higher price, and compromise the luxury, but you wont have to do a thing for the life of the car. BMW takes good care of its owners.

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