2008 BMW X3 Review
2008 BMW X3 Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Quick reflexes, brilliant steering, outstanding power delivery, high build quality, respectable cargo capacity for its size.
Cons
- Relatively stiff ride, priced higher than most competitors.
What’s new
The 2008 BMW X3 gets newly standard active headrests and a new "Sport Activity" package. The latter is basically an appearance package that includes 18-inch wheels, privacy glass, running boards and blacked-out window frames.
Edmunds says
Looking for a small SUV that performs like a sport sedan? The 2008 BMW X3 fulfills that role nicely, as long as you don't mind its big price tag and unusually firm ride.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2008 BMW X3 3.0si 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$290/mo for X3 3.0si
X3 3.0si
vs
$201/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Vehicle overview
Given its very athletic personality, calling the 2008 BMW X3 the "3 Series of SUVs" wouldn't be a stretch. In fact, that statement would be most fitting, as this crossover sport-ute shares its platform DNA with BMW's perpetually praised compact sport sedan. As with other small luxury SUVs, the X3 is geared more toward providing optimum all-weather performance on blacktop rather than off-road ability. Sharp steering and quick reflexes provide plenty of everyday driving enjoyment. Adding to the fun is a powerful and turbine-smooth inline-6 that can be paired to a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission -- the latter a rarity in this class dominated by automatic-only rivals.
Luxury is part of this Bimmer's appeal as well, though it's of the understated variety. Look closely and you'll discover perfectly tailored stitching on the well-shaped seats, precise fitment of the real wood trim and switches that operate with the precision of a musical instrument. Of course, the X3 can also be fitted with a wide array of high-end features, and versatility is quite good thanks to a rear seat that can accommodate 6-footers, and generous cargo capacity that measures 71 cubic feet when that seat is folded.
Admittedly, some folks may find the X3's ride too stiff, and for its size, it's pricey. There are a number of midsize premium-badged crossovers -- such as the Cadillac SRX and Lexus RX 350 -- that can be had for the same money. There are also an increasing number of small luxury crossovers to think about, such as the Infiniti EX35, Acura RDX and Land Rover LR2, all priced some $2,000 to $5,000 less. But for those looking for the maximum in driving enjoyment from their compact SUV, the 2008 BMW X3 is still the one. And this should come as no surprise considering its DNA.
Performance & mpg
The 2008 BMW X3 3.0si is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine rated at 260 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. There is a choice of either a six-speed manual or Sportmatic six-speed automatic transmission. Power is sent to all four wheels through an all-wheel-drive system. We've timed a manual X3 at 7.2 seconds for the 0-60-mph sprint. The automatic X3 earns 2008 fuel mileage numbers of 17 mpg city and 24 highway, while the manual version rates 1 mpg less in both instances.
Safety
The BMW X3 features full-length side curtain airbags, front-seat side airbags, active headrests, antilock disc brakes and a stability control system. Additional features include automatic brake drying (whereby the rotors are lightly "wiped" during wet weather conditions) and hill descent control. Rear seat side airbags are optional. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash testing, the X3 earned the highest score of "Good" for both frontal-offset and side-impact tests.
Driving
If you judge small luxury SUVs solely by how well they slice through a curvy road, then there's no better one on the market than the 2008 BMW X3. The ultra-communicative and precise steering is simply the best, the spirited engine always has plenty of smooth thrust on hand, the suspension is nimble and the brakes are strong and resistant to fade. However, if what you're looking for is a family vehicle to haul the clan cross-country in maximum comfort or if you'd rather creep along a rutted trail than tear up the twisties, there are better choices.
Interior
The cabin of the X3 is well thought out and beautifully executed. Function takes priority over opulence, with excellent switch feel and plenty of storage cubbies. A DVD entertainment system is not available, and the audio and ventilation controls can be confusing at first, but once mastered, they return precise adjustments. We'd skip the navigation system, as BMW's befuddling iDrive system comes with it. Get an aftermarket unit instead. Support and comfort from the firm, well-shaped seats are excellent. Overall the X3's cabin is an environment geared for serious driving rather than entertaining diversion. Folding the rear seat forward reveals a healthy 71 cubic feet of cargo space.
2008 BMW X3 models
The 2008 BMW X3 is a small luxury crossover SUV that comes in a single 3.0si trim level. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, automatic headlights, heated mirrors, automatic climate control, leatherette (a.k.a. vinyl) upholstery, full power accessories (including front seats), keyless entry and a CD player with an auxiliary audio input.
There are three major option packages: a Cold Weather package (heated front and rear seats, headlight washers and a ski bag), a Premium package (leather seating and additional interior and exterior lighting), a Sport package (firmer suspension calibrations, 18-inch alloys, sport seats and body styling accents) and a Sport Activity package (18-inch alloys, running boards, privacy glass, blackout window frames).
Stand-alone options include 19-inch wheels, park assist, an upgraded sound system, HD radio, a navigation system with iDrive, 16-way "Comfort" front seats and adaptive xenon headlights.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Average
#16 out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the BMW X3 from 2008-2022.$741/yr
vs. $559/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.71x/yr
vs. 1.23x/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).13.6%
vs. 8.6%
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2008 BMW X3.
5 star(49%)
4 star(16%)
3 star(17%)
2 star(12%)
1 star(6%)
51 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
3 out of 5 stars
Sheared Motor Mount Bolts
wrh47, 04/15/2013
2008 BMW X3 3.0si 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
2008 BMW X3 with 59,000 miles sheared all 4 motor mount bolts in normal street driving.
BMW said Âtough luckÂ.
A quick internet search indicated this was not an isolated incident, many other relatively low mileage BMW's have had sheared motor mount bolts.
I believe this problem to be a serious safety issue and filed a complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety … Administration.
I encourage others that have had similar problems to file NHTSA complaints at the following website:
safercar.gov
Click the ÂREPORT A VEHICLE OR CHILD SEAT DEFECTÂ Tab and submit your complaint.
If there are enough complaints, BMW will, hopefully, be forced to acknowledge this problem.
3.25 out of 5 stars
N52 engine really has problems
1978bmx, 04/03/2010
2008 BMW X3 3.0si 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
I purchased my x3 new, did my research and the x3 came in to be up there with the 3 series in quality. At around 60k the valves started to tap like crazy, (metal on metal sounds- if yours is doing this it is not normal! It needs to be repaired- don't let the dealer service people tell you it's air bubbles in the oil. It will lead to premature engine failure this should be covered under … warranty) the tapping sound was especially loud with cold starts. The engine cylinder head was replaced, but the sound is more of a thumping slamming sound now, it will be in the shop this week again! Even the BMW techs I've talked to, feel the quality of BMW is really slipping.
2.38 out of 5 stars
Never again
ohicks, 10/08/2014
2008 BMW X3 3.0si 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
First and last BMW. Quality is not what you would expect from a high end vehicle. Problems started almost immediately, the warranty covered the repairs not the in convince of the wasted time. After warranty ran out.. 55k miles...replaced window regulator on passenger window, at 60k miles, replaced all 6 sparks plugs. at 65 k, replaced valve cover gasket. at 67K, replaced water pump. … Now at 68k, all 4 engine mount bolts have sheared..vibration broke the water pump. Never again.. Disappointed in BMW's responses.
3.13 out of 5 stars
I'm very much disappointed
nstephanie, 09/24/2012
2008 BMW X3 3.0si 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
I've just finished the 4 year warranty with my car as of September 1st 2012. The car was at the dealer several times, the gas odometer
doesn't show the actual gas in the tank even the tank is full until several days later. It does
let me pump gas into it and keep stop getting gas even the tank is not half yet. The water pump was not working just 2 year for a brand new X3. The dealer had … to replace a new pump because the engine shut off while I was driving several times due to no coolant water in the engine. Now the warranty is over just 22 days, the car is just 28k and the coolant water pump having the problem again.
I'm very disappointed and regret that I bought this expensive car.
2008 X3 Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $38,600 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $290/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 30.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the X3 include:
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
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