The BMW X3 was created as a cheaper alternative to the flagship BMW X5 SUV. In 2006, the body of the car was slightly updated, and cosmetic changes appeared. In 2010, the X3 of the next generation, the F25 series, took its place on the assembly line.
Body
Body shapes and lines are inextricably linked with the style of other BMW models. Despite the years, the car still looks fresh and modern. You can only complain about unpainted plastic bumpers, which, after restyling in 2006, finally found a body color. The BMW X3 is technically closely related to the BMW 3 Series E46. However, the crossover is more spacious and easily allows a family of four to go on a trip.
The wheelbase impresses with its size - 2800 mm. It would seem that inside should be very spacious. But it is not so. It's all about the layout: the engine is located longitudinally, so a large wheelbase is a necessary measure. But there is enough space in the cabin.
The paintwork of the body is very high quality and tolerates the influence of time well - there are no problems with either corrosion or varnish. Corrosion on the surface of the body indicates repair after an accident.
Interior and equipment
The X3 received a clear and concise instrument panel, a soft steering wheel and an ergonomic center console. All buttons and switches are within reach and easy to use. Interior design largely depends on how rich the first buyer was. And they, as a rule, did not experience a lack of funds. Therefore, in the secondary market you can find many cars with beige or orange leather and decorative inserts made of wood and aluminum. In addition, some copies have an optional panoramic sunroof and sports package.
Squeaking and abrasion of plastic in the BMW X3 cabin is a known problem. The interior in older cars is most likely already heavily worn.
A huge plus of the BMW X3 is the rich equipment. Already in the standard configuration, the crossover had air conditioning on board, electric windows and mirrors, and was shod in large wheels with alloy wheels. The vast majority of copies are equipped with automatic climate control, leather interior, navigation and a high-end audio system.
Many X3s don't have any kind of spare tire (mostly European versions). In the usual place for a spare wheel, under the raised floor of the trunk, there is a battery, a basic tool and a first aid kit. On separate copies, a “stowaway” is provided, located outside under the bottom. The trunk is medium in size and has a volume of 480 liters.
Gasoline engines
Those who decide to buy a car with a gasoline engine have nothing to fear. Yes, there are problems with ignition coils, valve lifters and the Valvetronic system, but they are rare. The base 2-liter unit can upset with its dynamic characteristics. Therefore, the best option is an engine with a working volume of 3.0 liters, which guarantees good dynamics and reliability. However, you will have to put up with high fuel consumption. Thrifty can use the services of services offering the installation of equipment for working on liquefied gas. Thanks to the distributed fuel injection, the engine adequately perceives such refinement.
Diesel engines
The situation with diesel units is not so rosy. Rejections are quite common. In cars with high mileage, fuel injectors and a dual-mass flywheel fail. Some trouble is caused by soot accumulated in the particulate filter. In addition, there are cases of destruction of the tin exhaust manifold, which would be better replaced with a cast iron one.
The 2-liter M47 turbodiesel develops 150 hp. and not without flaws. These include flaps in the intake manifold (there is a risk of destruction and getting into the engine), stretching of the timing chain, malfunctions of the injection system and wear of the dual-mass flywheel. Despite this, the engine has earned a good reputation due to its mechanical strength and low cost of repair.
If you decide to purchase a diesel BMW X3, then the 3.0d with 204 hp will be the best choice. It provides good dynamics and at the same time is quite economical. Its stronger version is also trustworthy, but possible repairs will be more expensive. It is not recommended to mess with diesel crossovers of the first years of production: cases of cracking of the unit block have been recorded!
One of the most common malfunctions is the failure of the crankshaft damper pulley. The original will cost 25,000 rubles, and analogues will start at 10,000 rubles. It is worth noting that this engine used piezo injectors, which are much more expensive than electromagnetic ones. Since 2004, virtually every X3 3.0d has been equipped with a particulate filter.
A 2-litre N47 diesel has been offered since 2007. The engine is distinguished by an injection system with piezo injectors that is expensive to repair, a problematic electronically controlled turbocharger, and most importantly, a vulnerable timing chain drive located on the gearbox side. Replacing the chain is expensive, as it involves dismantling the motor. There have been cases of wear on the gear wheel on the camshaft and even a broken timing chain. However, units are also known that have passed 300,000 km without serious problems. The basis of longevity is good service. Remember that buying any diesel is a risk.
Gearboxes
The BMW X3 E83 was offered with both manual and automatic transmissions. Mechanics demonstrated reliability only when paired with 2-liter gasoline and diesel units. Working with more powerful engines that develop high torque, the box could not withstand the aggressive driving style. Soon the clutch and the dual-mass flywheel inevitably wore out.
Automatic transmissions are more durable, but you need to be careful with the General Motors products that the X3 got from 2004 to 2006. Among the typical defects, it should be noted acceleration delays at the moment of starting from a standstill. Any twitching, prolonged switching or skipping (slip) indicate a malfunction of the machine. As a rule, characteristic malfunctions of the machine begin to appear after 200,000 km.
All-wheel drive system
BMW X 3 in all versions was offered with an improved xDrive all-wheel drive system. The xDrive label itself appeared only in 2008.
The system works by distributing torque along the axles through an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. In normal modes, the thrust is distributed in a ratio of 40:60 in favor of the rear wheels. Electronic traction control takes care of wheel traction in difficult conditions. It is worth emphasizing that the BMW X3 is not an SUV, but just a crossover. So don't be surprised if it gets stuck in a little mud or snowdrift.
The all-wheel drive system is quite stable. In any case, it is more durable than in the larger X5, but it is very far from Quattro reliability. The weak point remains the transfer case, which sometimes fails after the first 100,000 km. Fortunately, the cost of repairs is relatively low. Often you can get away with just replacing the control module - about $ 120. A multi-plate clutch may fail due to a faulty servo. And due to the active braking of the slipping wheels, the wear rate of the brake pads increases.
Before buying, you need to pay attention to oil leaks from the transmission, in particular, you should look at the gearbox, axle shafts and differential. During the test run, there should be no banging/clicking under the driver's seat or the effect of locking the front wheels when making a sharp turn. During acceleration, there should be no jerking or howling, and during deceleration, chirping. The presence of problems will be prompted by messages on the dashboard that appear while driving.
The oil in the BMW X3 transfer case should be changed every 40,000 km. Ask the seller when he last changed the oil. If he is surprised by the question, then repair will soon await you.
When choosing X3, you should pay attention to one more thing - whether the tires on the axles are the same. The different size causes the system to be in constant readiness, as if the car is moving in a slight slip. This accelerates wear and brings the moment of failure closer. Only vehicles with the M package can have tires of different widths on the front and rear axles, but they must have the same diameter.
Chassis
The front and rear suspension of the X3 is quite complex in design, but not expensive to repair. On the front axle, stabilizer struts are periodically surrendered, and in the long term, shock absorbers and upper arms.
Other problems and malfunctions
When inspecting a used BMW X3 E83, it is imperative to check the tightness of the cooling system (pipes and radiator).
Having decided on the X3 with a manual transmission, you must be prepared to replace the clutch and dual-mass flywheel.
The weak points of the crossover include a short battery life and fairly frequent breaks in the air conditioning drive belt. Due to the oxidation of the contacts, there are problems with the electrician.
The car body is very well protected against corrosion, small traces of rust can be found only on individual suspension elements.
Genuine parts are expensive but last much longer than alternatives.
Conclusion
A used BMW X3 E83 is an offer that you should take into account if you need a fast car that does not save away from the asphalt. The crossover does an excellent job with a primer or a snowy road, but difficult sections are best avoided. The SUV offers a logical and fast all-wheel drive system, good dynamics, pleasant comfort and comfortable seats for a reasonable price. But, unfortunately, there is also the other side of the coin - the relatively high maintenance costs. A wide range of relatively high-quality and cheaper substitutes will allow to smooth out the burden of financial costs. Choosing a diesel version will allow you to visit gas stations less often, but will make you seriously fork out for possible repairs. As a result, the operation of a diesel modification will cost much more than a gasoline one. Finding a decent copy will take a lot of time. There are too many copies on the secondary market that have been restored after an accident. The main thing is to be patient.
History of the BMW X3 e83
2003 - start of sales
2004 - 3.0 d engine got more power (218 hp) and 6-speed automatic
2005 - 2.0 N46 four-cylinder petrol engine
2006 - restyling, the place of the M54 was taken by the 6-cylinder N52
2007 - N47 2.0 turbodiesel / 177 hp
2008 - appearance of the xDrive label
2009 - xDrive 18d with N47 2.0 turbodiesel / 143 hp
As you know, with the advent of a new generation model, the cost of the previous version, which, as a rule, remains available for order for some time, falls. Approximately the same thing happens in the secondary car market, with the difference that prices there are declining somewhat more slowly. And if not all fans of the Bavarian brand can afford to buy a new car, then almost everyone was once engaged in finding a worthy copy in the secondary market.
Take, for example, the BMW X3, the third generation of which was officially presented just a week ago, which means that in the near future, the “x-third” of the second, and, of course, the first generation will become even more accessible. In this article, we will consider the option of buying a first-generation BMW X3 in the back of an E83 produced in 2003-2006, the cost of which today is comparable to the price of most budget B-class sedans.
One of the key reasons for the popularity of this compact crossover, built on the platform of the BMW 3 Series in the body of the E46, was its time-tested reliability. And, of course, driving and dynamic qualities that are not available for new budget class cars. And indeed, the “X-third” of the first generation, despite its venerable age by automotive standards, is still relevant. It has refined handling, off-road performance and sports car character. In addition, he is a representative of the era of the German automobile industry, when a large resource was laid in cars, and there were no races to reduce the cost of production.
Actual prices for the "X third" of the first generation start at 450 thousand rubles and can reach up to 700 thousand rubles. The market has the most offers of the BMW X3 with 2.5-liter 192-horsepower petrol “sixes”, followed by modifications with 3.0-liter engines. The most rare are the BMW X3 with 3.0-liter diesel engines (204 hp, 410 Nm). As a transmission in the car, an “automatic” and a six-speed “mechanics” were used, however, finding a car on a “handle” is very rare.
All motors have proven to be reliable units, so the choice depends on individual preferences. But it should be mentioned that the difference in fuel consumption between 2.5- and 3.0-liter engines is not significant (0.5-1 liter per 100 km), but at the same time they differ markedly in acceleration dynamics. In this case, the choice in favor of a 2.5-liter engine can only be determined by the amount of transport tax.
The crankcase ventilation system will require special attention. After buying a car, and in the future, every 80-100 thousand km, it is necessary to change the tubes (4 pcs.), The sealing ring of the oil dipstick and the valve. Otherwise, there is a risk of air leakage, due to which the motor will start to work intermittently, and if the diaphragm breaks, even burnout of the pistons of 4 and 3 cylinders is possible, not to mention oil leakage from all slots due to increased pressure crankcase gases. On the details of the engine ventilation system, it is better not to save and put the original.
Other typical problem nodes of the first generation BMW X3 include a radiator that “dies” after 300 thousand km (original - about 20 thousand rubles, analogue - from 8 thousand rubles), pump (original - about 6 thousand rubles ., analogue - from 3 thousand rubles), "hedgehog" of the heating system regulator (original - about 6 thousand rubles, analogue - from 3 thousand rubles), stove winder (original - about 30 thousand rubles, analogue - from 5 thousand rubles).
The average service life of the "machine" X3 of the first generation, with proper operation, is 350-400 thousand km. During the operation of this unit, no characteristic "diseases" were identified. The only question that does not have a clear answer is the expediency of replacing ATF, because. in theory, the box is maintenance-free, and with high mileage, an oil change can disable it. From a technical point of view, this is explained by the fact that during operation, as the friction clutches wear out, the smallest dust gets into the oil, which changes the initial viscosity and properties of ATF, making the liquid thicker. If you drain this “slurry” and fill in new oil, then the degree of wear of the transmission will immediately let you know about yourself. In practice, many maintenance-free boxes after an oil change were sent either to a bulkhead or even to the scrap. Therefore, we recommend that you consult with proven mechanics who can assess the actual condition of the unit.
"Razdatka" E83 lives about 200 thousand km. Its typical problem is the production in a plastic gear (6 thousand rubles), and 45-50 thousand rubles will have to be paid for the entire assembly assembly. If the error “malfunction of the stability control system or the xDrive system” is detected during car diagnostics, this is a reason for a good bargain.
Like other BMWs, there are versions on the secondary market for both the European and American markets. In the first case, the cars were purchased either through an official dealer or imported from European countries. As is the case with other premium cars of this age, the first thing you should pay attention to when inspecting a car is the condition of its paintwork.
Of course, over such a long period of operation, the car could have been in an accident, so it is important to determine whether it was a participant in serious accidents. Using a thickness gauge, you can easily determine the presence of putty and repainted body parts. As a rule, an honest seller himself talks about minor accidents and cosmetic repairs.
Typical problems of the X3 body include peeling of the coating at the points of attachment of the rails. Almost certainly these points were locally painted, and nothing can be done about it. But the main trouble is the panoramic sunroof, which usually "dies" by 300 thousand kilometers. Its total cost will be at least 80 thousand rubles, and repairs from 30 thousand rubles. - therefore, verification of this node is required. The presence of its malfunction is a reason for a good bargain.
After that, you can proceed to computer diagnostics and assess the condition of the car's electrics. It should be understood that in 90% of cases, cars with twisted mileage are put up for sale, so it is important to count the mileage readings from different blocks of the car - often the “rollers” change the mileage readings only in the main blocks.
It is also possible to determine the approximate mileage of a car by indirect signs - abrasions of the interior, steering wheel and pedals, although the X-third of the first generation is famous for its very high-quality finishing materials that are resistant to wear. It will not be difficult to find out the history of the first years of the life of a car purchased from an authorized dealer, but after the warranty period has expired, it is difficult to do so. In the case of the BMW X3 for the American market, everything is simpler - the entire "American" history of the car, right up to the sale to our country, can be found in the Carfax database. But then again, you can find out about the further judge of the car only if it is repaired and undergoes MOT from the officials.
In general, the interior of the BMW X3 E83 resists aging very well, and the bodywork is not very susceptible to corrosion. The exception is cars from those regions where roads are abundantly sprinkled with salt and chemicals.
The X3 suspension is quite “survivable” and is considered one of the best, but when driving on our roads, you need to be prepared for the annual replacement of shock absorbers, the choice of which is very large today (from 4 thousand rubles to 8 thousand rubles and more) .
Conclusion:
Finding a first generation BMW X3 without further investment is extremely unlikely. At the same time, this crossover is free from serious problems, and the elimination of identified malfunctions will not require large financial costs, but in the future the car will delight its owner for more than one year.
BMW X3 E83 first appeared in the form of the xActivity Concept at the Detroit Auto Show in January 2003, and in the fall of 2004, the X3 was presented to the public as the final version of the crossover at the Frankfurt International Auto Show.
BMW X3 E83 is the first generation produced before August 31, 2010. A total of 614,824 vehicles were produced.
The crossover was produced at a plant in Graz (Austria - from 2003 to 2007), in Kaliningrad (Russia), in the city of the 6th October (Egypt - since 2006), Spartanburg and South Carolina (USA), Rayong ( Thailand - at the same plant they produce and) and was replaced by the second generation.
The exterior of the body was handled by a design team led by Chris Bangle. The crossover turned out to be a little smaller than its “big brother”, and thanks to its compact size it looks sportier and less muscular.
The interior of the car is quite simple and ergonomic. The combination of interior elements recalls the lines of the saloon, and the air conditioning system is taken from the E53.
The volume of the luggage compartment is 480 liters, and with folding rear seats it increases to 1560 liters.
Equipment
X3 E83 is equipped with dual airbags for the driver and front passenger, side and rear airbags, air conditioning, central locking, power door mirrors, power seat for the driver, power windows, adjustable steering wheel, power steering, rear head restraints, radio and fog lights.
Additionally, xenon headlights, a satellite navigation system, an alarm system, a 6-speed automatic transmission, leather upholstery, electric adjustable seats for all passengers, a parking sensor, metallic body paint and a sunroof were installed on the E83.
In addition, exclusive packages were available for the X3 E83:, and.
restyling
On September 23, 2006, an updated version of the E83 Facelift (LCI) was presented at the Paris Motor Show.
In the design of the car, the front and rear optics with LED technology have changed, the radiator grille, front and rear bumpers have been partially painted in body color, and new alloy wheels have been added.
In the interior, a new upholstery option for the seats has been added, the dashboard and center console have been updated.
xDrive
From August 2008, all X3 models were equipped with an all-wheel drive system, and were designated as - "xDrive". By default, the distribution of torque between the front and rear axles was in a ratio of 40:60. In the same (and next 2009) X3 was awarded the "Yellow Angel" in the quality category.
Safety
In a 2008 Euro NCAP crash test, the crossover was rated four out of five for passenger safety (28 points) and four out of five possible for child safety (39 points).
Pedestrian safety was rated with five points and one of four possible stars.
Specifications BMW X3 E83
Engines and range
The X3 E83 was equipped with gasoline and diesel engines paired with a standard 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission.
| Motor | Volume cm³ |
Power hp |
Torque Nm |
Max Speed km/h |
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h seconds |
Average fuel consumption l/100 km |
|
| 2.0i xDrive20i |
1995 | 150 | 200 | 200 198 |
11,5 | 10,5 9,0 |
|
| 2.5i | 2494 | 192 | 245 | 208 | 8,9 | 11,3 | |
| 2.5si xDrive25i |
2497 | 218 | 250 | 221 | 8,5 | 9,9 9,3 |
|
| 3.0i | M54B30 | 2979 | 231 | 300 | 224 | 7,8 | 11,4 |
| 3.0si xDrive30i |
N52B30 | 2996 | 272 | 315 | 232 | 7,2 | 10,1 9,5 |
| xDrive18d |
The BMW X3 is an all-wheel-drive compact ("high-end") SUV in the premium segment, which combines discreet design, productive technical "stuffing" and rich equipment ... This is the second car of the "crossover line" of the German automaker, whose target audience is wealthy people living in large cities and prefer outdoor activities…
The world premiere of the off-road vehicle of the first incarnation (with the internal factory code "E83") "faded away" in September 2003 at the Frankfurt International Motor Show, but its conceptual harbinger called "xActivity" was presented back in January of the same year at the North American bride in Detroit.
In 2006, the car underwent a planned update, as a result of which it received a modified exterior, improved interior, new power units and an expanded list of equipment, after which its commercial production continued until August 2010 - it was then that the next model, the second in a row, entered the series. generation.
Outside, the "original" BMW X3 looks nice, emphatically solid and proportionate, but unpretentious. Restrained front part with neat lighting and branded “nostrils” of the radiator grille, an expressive silhouette with a soaring window sill line and large wheel arches, a taut feed with two-section lights and a large fifth door - there is not a single controversial detail in the exterior of the car, however, there are no design frills here either. find.
The length of the BMW X3 of the first generation is extended by 4569 mm, in width - by 1853 mm, in height - by 1674 mm. The wheelbase of the car "extends" to 2795 mm, and its ground clearance does not exceed 201 mm. The “traveling” weight of the crossover varies from 1660 to 1950 kg, depending on the version.
The interior of the mid-size SUV captivates with rigor and nobility, which are emphasized by impeccable ergonomics, premium materials and workmanship. A weighty multifunctional steering wheel, a simple, but extremely understandable and informative instrument cluster, a solid center console with a retractable media center display and laconic audio and “microclimate” units – the interior of the five-door is designed to match the exterior, without any memorable decisions.
The interior of the “first” BMW X3 has a five-seat layout - even three adults can sit on the second row. In the front part, there are comfortable armchairs with well-defined support on the sides and large adjustment intervals, and in the back there is a comfortable sofa with an optimal sofa shape and backrest angle.
The trunk of the crossover in the normal state holds 480 liters of luggage, and with the folded "gallery" (in the ratio "60:40") - 1560 liters (in this case, a completely even "rookery" is obtained). The "cellar" under the raised floor of the car contains a small spare tire and tools.
For the BMW X3 of the first incarnation, a wide range of powertrains is offered:
- Gasoline versions of the SUV are equipped with atmospheric four- and six-cylinder engines with a working volume of 2.0-3.0 liters with a vertical architecture, a distributed "power" system and a variable valve timing mechanism, producing 150-272 horsepower and 200-315 Nm of torque.
- Under the hood of diesel modifications are hidden in-line “fours” and “sixes” with a volume of 2.0-3.0 liters with turbocharging and common rail fuel injection, which generate 177-286 hp. and 350-580 Nm of torque potential.
The engines are installed in combination with a 6-speed “mechanics” or “automatic” and an xDrive all-wheel drive transmission with a multi-plate clutch, transferring traction to the front wheels (under normal conditions, power is distributed between the axles in a ratio of “40:60” in favor of the rear).
The car copes with the first "hundred" after 6.4-11.5 seconds, and its maximum capabilities reach 198-240 km / h.
Gasoline versions of the five-door "digest" 9.3-10.3 liters of fuel for every 100 kilometers in mixed mode, and diesel ones - 6.8-8.1 liters.
At the heart of the BMW X3 E83 is a platform with a longitudinally based power unit and a steel monocoque body. Independent suspensions with hydraulic shock absorbers and anti-roll bars are mounted on both axles of the SUV: in front - MacPherson type, in the rear - multi-link architecture.
The car is equipped with a rack-and-pinion steering mechanism, in which the power steering is “implanted”. On four wheels of the crossover are disc brakes (with ventilation on the front axle), supplemented by ABS and EBD.
In the Russian market of used cars, the first generation BMW X3 in 2018 can be bought at a price of ~ 250 thousand rubles.
The standard equipment of the five-door implies the presence of: front and side airbags, air conditioning, ABS, EBD, ESP, power steering, 17-inch alloy wheels, four electric windows, heating and electrical adjustments of external mirrors, fog lights, standard audio system and some other "gadgets".
This car appeared a few years after the release of the X5 and became its more affordable counterpart. However, like any other mid-size crossover, the Bavarian was designed for a specific audience. What is more in it: utility or passion? After all, powerful engines and sophisticated steering speak in favor of the latter ...
I generation (E83)
The first generation BMW X3 was shown to the public in 2003, as part of a prestigious exhibition in Frankfurt. The public was interested, first of all, in the technical characteristics of the Bavarian crossover, while many were less enthusiastic about its design. The novelty did not have the representativeness and aggression that the X5 stood out for and someone even found the X 3 not very attractive.
Gasoline and diesel power plants were available for the car. Petrol:
- Engine 2.0 liters. Power is 150 horsepower. Works only with 6MKP.
- Engine 2.5 liters. Gives out 192 forces. It can work in conjunction with a six-speed “mechanics” or a five-band automatic transmission.
- Three-liter power unit. The power potential amounts to 231 "horses". The choice is 6MKPP / 5AKPP.
- Motor cubic capacity of 2.0 liters and a return of 150 horsepower. Realizes its traction through a six-speed manual gearbox.
- Three-liter installations. They give out 204, 218 forces.
It is worth noting that all motors were equipped with a proprietary xDrive all-wheel drive system.
I generation (E83). restyling
In 2006, the BMW X 3 underwent some changes that were carried out by the manufacturer. In particular, the appearance has changed due to the new grille, bumpers and body kit. Inside, finishing materials have improved, and the functionality of iDrive has been significantly expanded.
The restyling and technical characteristics of the Bavarian SUV did not ignore. So, the petrol engines of 2.5 and 3.0 liters were replaced by analogues similar in volume, but with higher specific power rates - 218 and 272 horsepower, respectively. They were equipped with 6MKP or 6AKP.
The 204-horsepower installation was excluded from the diesel line, but the following were added:
- Two-liter engines with a return of 143, 177 "horses". Equipped with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-band "automatic".
- The power unit is 3.0 liters. Develops 286 forces. Works only in tandem with 6AKP.
User opinion
Price policy
Trial
Appearance
With a larger and more prestigious BMW X5, this car has in common only a similar body profile, a radiator grille, as well as a similar rear optics configuration. The rest of the stylistic decisions are more independent. The head optics has some extension to the wings, and the bumpers are painted in black plastic in basic trim levels for more practical off-road driving.
However, driving on serious off-road sections is unlikely to succeed. The reason for this is low body overhangs, although the ride height is acceptable ...
Interior decoration
The interior is strict and to some extent minimalist, but it is difficult to find fault with the finishing materials and assembly - the plastic of the panels is soft, and the panels themselves are matched quite accurately. There are no questions about ergonomics - the location of controls and auxiliary functions is intuitive.
The instrument panel has a silver edging and is perfectly readable under any conditions. The steering wheel with a puffy rim and noticeable tides in the grip area fits comfortably in the hands, besides it does not slip out when it is actively rotated.
The driver's seat has a low seating position and pronounced side support rollers, which sets you in an active mood. True, the seat adjustment in the longitudinal plane is limited, which is unlikely to please a tall driver. A similar situation is with the rear sofa - knee room for tall passengers will not be enough.
The volume of the luggage compartment is 500 liters. The flat floor and the correct shape of the compartment make it possible to transport bulky cargo.
On the run
The most compromise choice is the BMW X3 with a 192-horsepower petrol engine, which is equipped with an automatic transmission. Such an SUV shows agility in urban use and makes it possible to quickly make long overtaking on the highway.
It is worth noting the excellent pickup in the medium speed region and the sensitive accelerator pedal. "Automatic" changes gears quickly, but sometimes works with jerks.
The steering with a sensitive "zero" and pronounced reactive force is perfect for driving on winding roads. At the same time, the banks are small, and the understeer is close to neutral. However, you have to pay for sports habits with a low ride. Rigid suspension projects the road profile on riders in detail.
II generation (F25)
The new BMW X3 was presented at the Paris Salon in 2010. The car impressed fans with its attractive design and technological options. The technical component also aroused interest.
The petrol range consists of the following units:
- Two liter engines. Give out 184, 245 horsepower. Complete with 6MKP, 8AKP.
- Engines 3.0 liters. Power is 258, 306 forces. They work together exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The diesel range is represented by:
- The power unit is 2.0 liters with a return of 184 "horses". The choice is 6MKP / 8AKP.
- Three-liter engines with a capacity of 249, 313 horsepower. Realize their potential through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
All modifications are equipped with a drive on two axles.
BMW X3 (F25). restyling
In 2014, a video presentation of the updated Bavarian crossover took place. The novelty differs from its predecessor in modified optics, new bumpers.
Specifications have undergone much greater reforms. So, the gasoline series lost its 258-horsepower installation. The diesel line now looks like this:
- Two-liter engine with a capacity of 190 horsepower. It is aggregated 6MKP/8AKP.
- Engines with a cubic capacity of 3.0 liters. Develops 249, 313 "horses". They work in tandem with an eight-speed "automatic".
What do the owners think?
The new generation of BMW X 3 has become more compromise, as well as comfortable. However, the car has not lost its fighting enthusiasm. As for reliability, the iDrive system block, as well as engines that are capricious about fuel quality, require special attention. The brake system is prone to overheating, so some motorists are tuning it to more efficient components.
Market price
There are both used copies and new ones (2016-2017 model year) on the market. The price tag between them differs, and sometimes quite significantly.
Test
Outside
This SUV looks smart and respectable. The BMW X 3 stands out from the general flow with bi-xenon optics, muscular wheel arches, expressive bumpers and a low body kit. At the same time, the geometric cross is limited by a small ground clearance, as well as low overhangs.
Inside
The interior resembles a cockpit - the driver sits low, and the controls are located in close proximity to him. The front panel is trimmed with wood, which gives solidity, and the textured plastic panels are pleasant to the touch.
The dashboard with a contrasting background is very readable and very informative. As for the display of the iDrive multimedia and entertainment system, it can display an overview from the rear view camera, navigation, chassis settings and more.
The driver's seat is comfortable, and also has in its arsenal a variety of electric adjustments, however, the side support rollers do not provide proper fixation in turns. The gallery of the second row is able to accommodate even three passengers without any problems. At their disposal are central deflectors of blowers, a niche for small luggage. Volumetric trunk (550 liters) allows you to carry large loads.
Driving properties
The most common is the BMW X 3, equipped with a two-liter gasoline engine with 184 horsepower, as well as an automatic transmission. Such a crossover has acceptable dynamics and fuel efficiency.
In particular, the thrust of the power unit is evenly distributed throughout the entire rev range, which ensures good elasticity. "Automatic" with a closely spaced gear range changes gears quickly, with maximum smoothness. Gasoline consumption in the combined cycle does not exceed 13 liters.
The steering wheel is informative, but it lacks more sensitive reactions when cornering at small angles. When passing turns, rolls are noticeable, but neutral steering allows you to accurately prescribe a given arc.
A test drive revealed that the long-travel suspension, moreover, is also elastic. Therefore, the irregularities of small, medium scall BMW X3 overcomes effortlessly, endowing with high smoothness.
Photos of all generations of the BMW X3:
