With its ground clearance, low-hanging components and performance tires, it’s apparent that the X3 is not meant for anything stickier than a gravel path. For good measure, though, BMW also included a Hill-Descent Control button, which automatically brakes the car down a slope.  

Let loose the 2.5-liter inline-6 and the X3 can show its taillights to many sports sedans while providing a spine-tingling soundtrack. There’s 218 hp and 250 Nm on tap, hitched up to a responsive six-speed automatic.

The X3 won’t appeal to as wide an audience as the X5, particularly as its price is not far off the larger model’s. It most serious limitation is passenger space that’s no larger than a 3 Series’. It doesn’t have the advantages of the conventional SUV: tall driving position, enormous cargo bay, or large passenger seating. But it has none of the drawbacks, either. The BMW’s driving experience—in acceleration, braking, and cornering—is first-rate.

That opens up a new kind of buyer for this vehicle. The 1 Series is touted as BMW’s most personal machine, but for those seeking something individualistic to provide driving enjoyment above all else, the X3 should fit the bill nicely.

 

 

The interior is very business-like. There's still a lack of cubby holes though. Very un-SUV indeed.

Center stack is home to a manual A/C (?!) system. Cup holders can't hold giant-sized drinks.