Sharing much of its mechanicals with the previous- and current-generation 3 Series, the X3′s performance is enabled by its responsive six-cylinder engine, precise steering and a full-time all-wheel-drive system, dubbed xDrive. With the ability to instantly detect slippage and redirect power to the wheels with the most traction, the xDrive system gives the compact BMW SUV confidence-inspiring handling in both wet and dry conditions.

If you’re shopping for a premium, performance-oriented compact SUV — and don’t mind the stiff ride and even stiffer price of entry — we recommend that you put the BMW X3 at the top of your short list of choices.

Current BMW X3

The BMW X3 is a compact luxury SUV available in a single trim level known as xDrive30i. It is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 that produces 260 horsepower. Connecting this power to the ground is either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

The X3 fulfills the brand’s reputation for modern luxury with a long list of conveniences, exquisite comfort, premium interior materials and near-flawless build quality. Add to that the X3′s generous seating space (even for taller adults) and spacious cargo area, and you have an accomplished crossover SUV that’s well-suited for the chores of daily life as well as twisty roads. Drivers, especially, will appreciate its purposeful, 3 Series-derived cockpit featuring large analog gauges and high-quality switchgear.

Among small luxury crossover SUVs, the X3 has no equal when it comes to arcing along a curvy road, thanks to the superior steering feel, ideal suspension tuning and eager engine power output. However, if what you’re looking for is a family vehicle to haul the clan cross-country in maximum comfort, the X3′s sometimes stiff ride quality is a detriment.

Used BMW X3 Models

The X3 compact luxury SUV, still in its first generation, was introduced for the 2004 model year. Originally, there were two six-cylinder models: the 184-hp 2.5i and the 225-hp 3.0i. The 2.5i was discontinued after 2005.

For 2007, the X3 received a significant midlife refresh and a new name: 3.0si. The 3.0-liter engine was upgraded to the current output, while the earlier model’s overly stiff ride was greatly relaxed. Stability and traction control were also bundled together along with braking enhancements to improve emergency responsiveness. On the style front, a freshened and sleeker exterior combined with better plastics and wood trim inside for an especially enticing new package.

Considering this, BMW X3 models built before this ’07 change are less attractive. The rough ride was the primary concern, while the cabin materials did not meet the premium standards set by other BMW models.

BMW X3. When is an SUV not an SUV? When BMW decides to call it a Sport Activity Vehicle, SAV for short, instead — as is the case with the BMW X3.

The X3 is one of the newest breeds of SUVs that forgoes off-road pretense in favor of on-road performance. While easy to dismiss as a marketing ploy, BMW’s X3 SUV — er, SAV — does indeed offer superior handling in addition to an improved view of the road, a comfortable interior and the latest automotive technology, which are all valued features regardless of how the X3 is classified.