Used 2005 BMW X3 SUV Consumer Reviews
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X3 BMW Beyond Expectations
H. Jones, 06/01/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just turned 19000 miles. My gas mileage in light to moderate traffic is consistently between 20 and 21 mpg. On the road the mileage is consistently between 26 to 27.5 mpg. The handling is great; few cars handle this well! I think the 2.5 is enough power and transmission shifts nicely. I live in mountainous country and the 2.5 is just fine on steep grades at altitudes from 4000 to 9000 feet. It is great in the snow, on wet roads and even muddy conditions. The X-drive works almost instantaneously. You can spend more but I don't think you could buy anything better. No I don't like the clutch and break pedals so close together.
Looks and feels good
yuppiescum, 01/20/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For a combo of city and rural driving where snow is sometimes a factor, X-3 was the choice for me. So far, it performs reliably. Lots of fun to drive, for an SUV. Roomy, but not impossible to park in the city.
2005 BMW X3 for sale near you
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BY ENGINEER
R. G. Hegi, 01/22/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded in my 04 X-3 for this 05 - and yes, I like them that much! Once you get hooked on the outstanding build quality nothing else compares. And the performance of this turbine smooth 3.0 engine coupled with so many built in occupant safety features puts this SUV way ahead of any other choices I reviewed. Sit in one - don't even drive it - look around then turn the key on and watch it come to life just waiting for you to guide it and show what you want. It's there for you and years from now it still will be and with one of the highest resale values on the market. Guess you can tell I like this ride. Take one out - get close to it and you'll want to write something too.
Great car to drive
JB, 06/15/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I used to drive an Audi A4 and was unsure how the transition to a SUV would be but the X3 has not let me down! It is wonderful, fun, comfortable and handles well. For those of you looking for a truck that drives like a car, this is the one for you!
Very nice SAV
RICH, 02/06/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Handles better than any SUV,(SAV) Ive ever driven...Feels just like a car around turns, etc...Great in the rain and snow..Has that real road grippng BMW feel..Steerng and response are excellent and the brakes are great..Have a real safe secure feeling in it.
Fun to drive!
jackdogdc, 02/08/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I moved up from a Subaru Forester, which was a great, reliable little SUV, but no where near as much outright fun as the X3. The X3 goes exactly where I point it, on curves and straightaways. It accelerates smoothly and responsively, with a nice engine roar. The only drawbacks are a rear cargo compartment that could be roomier, and a rather clunky exterior design that you either love or hate. Fuel economy could also be improved. But none of that matters too much to me because of the funI' having behind the wheeel.
BMW X3 3.0i AWESOME RIDE!
gary, 02/15/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drives just like a sports sedan. Handles curves great, smooth as butter and very pleasing to the eye.
Disapointed! BMW X3
sean, 02/10/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice styling and handling. Poor fuel economy. Extremely cheap looking interior. Driving the X3 makes me feel that I am driving a 'Low End" BMW. (i.e. BMW 318). It does not feel like an introductory level SUV. It feels like a "Poor Mans"Womens Bimmer"!
Disappointed! BMW X3
sean, 02/10/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice styling and handling. Poor fuel economy. Extremely cheap looking interior. Driving the X3 makes me feel that I am driving a 'Low End" BMW. (i.e. BMW 318). It does not feel like an introductory level SUV. It feels like a "Poor Man's Bimmer"!
The Dream Machine
X3Man, 12/11/2004
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is an awesome car. From the time you unlock it to the time you lock it and walk away, you are guarenteed sheer joy. The car has so many dependability control and saftey features that it allows you to spend time focusing on the comfort and entertainment. There is no shortage of that. The ride is not too stiff (improved in '05) and I like the interior (light wood = the best). The vehichle is very sophisticated if you equip it properly (please do). If you just want a dependable car to drive, there are others out there. If you will stand for nothing less than the best...name, engine, looks, entertaining and futuristic features, then equip one fully and join the club.
BMW X3 3.0
Ahmet Colakoglu, 05/03/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have 1000 miles on the vehicle. Not a single problem til now. The sun roof is gorgeous and unique. Except the black bumper, the exterior design is the best in the segment, if not among all SUVs. I find people checking my car all the time. The performance is great for an SUV. Very confident drive in foul weather, rain sensing wipers and adaptive xenon lights help a lot. I do not have the sport package and I find the suspension sporty and comfortable. The transmission has excellent responses with the sport mode, however downshifts are late with the regular mode. And it is not expensive, I get 18-19 mpg, not bad.
First time BMW owner impressed
BMW Virgin, 12/19/2004
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've been driving Mercedes-Benz for over 9 years and decided to test BMW mainly because of the full warranty and the special lease promotion. I was impressed with the X3 due because it's not a massive SUV, has more space than a sedan and is all wheel drive. I was suprised at how comfortable and easy to operate all the little things. I'm really impressed with the acceleration from a complete stop. The ride is really smooth as well. Impressive safty features, and getting used to driving a SAV took about 3-5 days. Get one... you won't be sorry!
Amazing X3
Alex Ciocilteu, 02/02/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We purchased the X3 as a familly vehicle. We regularly transport our 2 (young) children in it. The reason we chose it is that we do not need a third row yet and we wanted as much as possible to get a vehicle that handles like a car without getting a station wagon. As you can imagine we also wanted at all costs to avoid the dreaded van. The X3 is just large enough not to feel cramped and yet remin nimble for city driving. The build quality is excellent; however the texture of the dash is questionable and the door handles could stand to look less like they were made in China. Handling is simply amazing: the truck handles like a (sports) sedan. We have found it comfortable (no sports package).
BMW X3
Spo1343, 12/30/2004
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
At first I was skeptical to this SUV. With only 184bhp and a large body I was seriously considering a 325xi. However, the new body style, lower price and test drive of the X3 had me sold. It has a turnk the size of an X5 but drives like a 3 Series. The steering and suspension are tight but not harsh and if you really push it, the X3 hustles.
Good Car
Bubba, 05/13/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive great car for running around, easy access to trunk to throw things in like a 5th door.
Great little SUV
BoiseBigKahuna, 01/06/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This ute is a blast to drive. It handles great and is pretty darn fast. The interior is surprisingly roomy and the back seat is comfy for 3 adults.
Fun in the Sun
Old&Restless, 05/15/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very good experience. Excellent handling and a safe drive in snow & ice. I have about 5000 miles on the car and had no problems whatsoever. This machine is finely engineered and does not remind me that I am in an SUV, except through its amazing x-drive and a high seating position. In addition, with the high residual value and low leasing rates, this car is a steal, especially compared to similarly priced cars.
Excellent
Laurie Aulicino, 01/16/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drives like a dream. The inside is a little small but sufficient for a family of 4.
Driving for fun
Paul Brooks, 02/12/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
BMW got the X3 just right, this car is just the most fun to drive! This compact SUV is just right the size, unlike some of those oversized monsters that hog the road, including it's oversized big brother the X5. The drive is quiet and very comfortable, and the peformance is thrilling, this baby drives! The X3 is a true BMW, the styling is a little conservative but the reeks of BMW confidence that does not need to impress, no vulgarity with this car, it does its job with style and delivers results that BMW drivers expect.
Just fantastic
Happy BMW Owner, 01/20/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this vehicle. If you like the squishy soft ride of a Cadillac or Merc and like lots of interior clutter marketed as "luxury", this is NOT the vehicle for you. The X3 has a clean, elegant, uncluttered look inside and out. It is so fun to drive! It handles like a sports car but is great! in the rain & snow. Just superior as far as engineering and performance. I never thought I'd own a BMW... but I will be hard pressed to go back. It is a little pricey, but so are the American tanks cleverly disguised as SUVs. Nothing against American cars. The RX is simply for a different market. I looked at the Japanese SUVs as well and really like them too, but I fell in love with the X3.
Happy but Sore
KEG, 05/26/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have had this car for three months, and so far absolutely no complaints other than a very harsh ride with the sport package. Believe them when they say it is harsh!! This is not a problem at all on regular roads, but uneven pavement/ dirt roads/ speed bumps, etc are brutal. Good handling makes it worth the sacrifice, maybe. Navigation system is a fun feature, although inputting the destination is a little time-consuming. Some passengers have commented that it is difficult to get in and out, although I have had no problem. Very fun commuter vehicle overall, looks great, and has a nice cargo space as a bonus!
There are better values out there
clydesdalecm, 12/27/2007
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This X3 is a sharp car and drives like a 3 series sedan...this is a blast to drive. Outside of that, it gets less attractive. It isn't very big for an SUV (ie Doesn't carry a lot of stuff or people). The fuel economy for a V6 is horrible (maybe 17-18MPG?) Four passengers in this thing feels like too many. The trunk is tiny (can't fit 1 set of golf clubs across). And the interior features aren't stellar for a $40K vehicle.
Great SAV...
RR, 02/19/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Handles like a 3 series BMW..Great brakes, steering , etc..Typical BMW feel..Panorama Moon Roof is awesome..Excellent in bad weather, especially wet roads..Went through 15 inches of snow with ease..
New to BMW and loving it!
Ken, 01/22/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great driving experience. Respectable power on 2.5 liter 6-speed. Feels like more power than what it's rated at.
Pretty good - a few faults
Miami BMW Girl, 06/12/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great drive and awesome performance! Had some problems with CD player and some interior finishes. Don't lock yourself out - no way to open the doors without a key or being towed to dealership for reprogramming. I had to break my own rear window to get into my car when I locked myself out.
Best mid-size SUV yet
X3 - manic, 09/09/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I decided to replace my 2-yr old Jeep Liberty with a sportier SUV, and found the perfect choice with the X3 3.0i. It is the perfect balance between function and luxury, not as soft and plush as the Lexus and not as utilitarian as the Subaru Forester. Handles like a BMW 3-series and has the hauling capacity of the Jeep liberty.
Excelent small SUV
BMW X3 Lover, 03/04/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Its a small SUV and easy to maneuver drives & runs like a sports car and function as an SUV. Luxury & style for younger drivers. Its not a box on wheels its an X3
Glad I Waited For 05
DurangoDoug, 02/08/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 05 X3 3.0 comes in at around $2,500 less than the 04 version. Because the MSRP stayed the same, but the moonroof is now standard and the auto tranny is now a no cost option. In 04 those 2 cost about $2,500 combined. Yea, the ride is a bit stiff, but no worse than the truck I traded. Yet with the X3 there is no body lean in turns. Cornering is so much fun now, not like my wallowing truck. Gas mileage is already better (only 500 miles so far) than my old V8 truck and should get better as the engine loosens up. Even in regular drive mode it is spirited, in sport mode WOW, really quick! Great in the snow as well. I negotiated $1,750 off vs an Edmunds target price of around $400 off. Sweet!
BETTER THAN THE REST
Noah, 06/23/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Really love my X-3. It is the right size for me. I hate large SUV's and the other SUV's in the size category can be seen everywhere!! I went to the mall one day and came out only to find five Black Infinity FX's in the same row!! Love the look of the X-3. I get alot of stares. The power is perfect and I can still park in all garages. Quality of the craftmenship has been great. Buy something else if you want ugly styling or an SUV that nearly everybody has(i.e the Lexus.) This is my first BMW and I won't be going to any other brand in the future!!!
unsurpassed mechanical marvel
Gavino Martinez, 03/09/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
From the moment I sat on this sports UTE. I knew there was something special about this vehicle.
Wish it used less gas
yetialan, 12/30/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Wow what a great car/truck/suv. I would expect it to get better gas mileage since it is based on a car platform. Awesome ride and handling and what an amazing sunroof. Got the red leather interior. Interesting no one has it so it looks sharp. Easy navigation system. Not that much room in the trunk area but certainly enough. Feels rock solid on the road and safe. Memory seating build into key fob has to be one of the best features along with heated steering wheel. Great sunroof. It sure holds its value. Hope this helps. Thanks
Fun to drive
jliu34740, 03/09/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive. Inspiring handling, braking and acceleration. Great looking interior and exterior. Sure it's a little expensive but well worth it.
Great Car!!
Happy X3 Driver, 02/15/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really love this car. If you are a fan of the squishy soft ride of American makes and lots of interior clutter marketed as luxury, this is NOT the car for you. This car is clean and uncluttered. It drives like a sports car! It is a little pricey, but so are its American "tank" cousins cleverly disguised as SUVS and IT IS a BMW with all the engineering superiority that comes with it!! The X3 is so solid! The steptronic transmission is outstanding in bad weather. It looks great and is truly a drivers car. I can't say enough about it. I love it!
X3 Rating
Kenneth Lowrie, 11/08/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The only objection I have to this vehicle is the need to use premium fuel. However, maybe that's necessary because of the outstanding engineering.
Its a BMW
BMWRICKEYS, 03/14/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded in a 2003 330xi with 37,500 miles on it, for the 2005 X3 cause I needed more room. But still wanted AWD with X-Drive. Its a good safe SAV, but not a sedan. I would like it to have more power. I hope they put the 255hp Eng.in it soon. If you need a SUV thats Fun to Drive "Its a BMW"
I Love It!
Lauren, 07/22/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my car for 6 months and continue to love it every time I get in the car! I had two 3 series before the 3.0L X3 and I loved them, but this car is wonderful! It's sporty yet luxurious.
Great Car!!
Happy X3 Driver, 02/15/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really love this car. If you are a fan of the squishy soft ride of American makes and lots of interior clutter marketed as luxury, this is NOT the car for you. This car is clean and uncluttered. It drives like a sports car! It is a little pricey, but so are its American "tank" cousins cleverly disguised as SUVS and IT IS a BMW with all the engineering superiority that comes with it!! The X3 is so solid! The steptronic transmission is outstanding in bad weather. It looks great and is truly a drivers car. I can't say enough about it. I love it!
There's a lot to love
LCharry, 03/08/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
There really is a lot to love about the X3. It handles beautifully, looks great and has just enough zip to get me to my boys baseball games on time and in style! I'd say overall I'd give it an A-.
My first BMW!
BarbaraB, 10/08/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I waited a LONG time for this BMW..I wanted a smaller suv, always dreamed of owning a BMW, and fell in love with the X3 the first time I saw it. It's great looking, but I never expected it to be SO much fun to drive! This is my dream car. Gas mileage? Not bad... but the ride and handling alone have made me a BMW owner for life. Excuse my excitement, but every time I get into my X3, all I can think is....."I'm driving a BMW..finally!"
Great SUV
Steve, 11/07/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The BMW X3 has great styling and sporty ride. I can't wait to drive it in the snow.
Love the sporty X3
Chris, 03/19/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
An incredible machine, expensive for the interior room, but didn't buy it for cargo space. Have put 7,000 miles on it in 6 months, absolutely no trips to the dealer for any issues whatsoever, unlike two of my friends who bought VW Toureags. Mine is fully loaded, including the sport package which does make it stiff, but that really smoothed out at about the 4,000 mile point. It is a joy to drive, especially here in Germany, and pull compliments out of even the most staid Germans for the great design. Again, it was pricey compared to many US models, but compared to the X-5, with the same interior space, etc, I believe this car was a bargain. Would buy another in a heartbeat.
I Love This BMW!
Dr. Jonathan D. cole, 03/19/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I was 20 (19 yrs ago) I bought a used 1973 BMW 2002 and I loved that car. Since then I have owned many others but the most fun to drive with the most serious technology behind it is my 2004 BMW X3 3.0i. It takes curves at full throttle like a race car without any roll/worries. I just love to drive it. It is also a very comfortable car with a very nice fit and finish. This is a 3 series that has been given the blessing of X-drive and DSC and again it is a pure joy to drive (this vehicle was not designed to just haul your family around). I again am reminded why BMW has the slogan "The Ultimate Driving Machine". I would recommend an X3 to anyone who enjoys spirited driving!
Fun to drive
Fabio, 02/17/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We wanted to buy a Lexus RX 330, but we decided to test drive the X3 as well. We were so amazed by the drive and the performance that we changed our mind. X3 gives you the peace of mind while driving, some undescribable sense of safety, and it has enough power to satisfy you under almost every road conditions.
the bmwx3
bmwx3, 03/19/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Absolutely a wonderful road care, in storms, weather just hugs the road and humes right along. This is an auto atits best.
pauline's bmw
Pauline Cenizal, 03/23/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Exciting car, fun to drive, took it cross-country starting with only 500 miles on it and it performed admirably.
A bit pricy, but fun to drive.
Ed, 01/06/2005
2005 BMW X3 2.5i AWD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I never thought I would purchase a BMW. While delivering some documents to the dealer, the owner of the dealership took me out for a test drive during a heavy downpour. The X3 handled like a champ! It performed like a sports car ... it feels like one.
This is a BMW?
Emily, 02/17/2005
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When reading this rating, know that I am comparing it to other BMWs. I was greatly disappointed in pretty much everything, especially after driving a 330ci. The X3 was a rough ride, the manual transmission felt empty, the automatic just wasn't that impressive. The quality of the vehicle itself wasn't up to the usual level BMW offers. The only thing that reminded me that I was driving a BMW was the symbol on the steering wheel.
love my beamer
yasercheema, 01/25/2006
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent overall performance, its dependable, reliable, gives great mileage on the highway for a suv.
Fun to drive, room to spare
jaaX3, 02/25/2006
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Buy the X3 if you are looking for utility and fun! I haul my dog and my wife's shopping bags almost daily. It is also my daily driver to work. I can get there in style and have fun with it. It has AMAZING handling. This SAV has good punch to it, too. The only bad thing I would say is the gas mileage.
X 3
Bob t, 04/19/2006
2005 BMW X3 3.0i AWD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice SAV ride could be a little softer, great handling, good traction interior dash could use some improvement (looks) gas mileage ok. This is a performance SUV.