Hopping into the BMW X3 is like putting on a well-worn pair of shoes: it’s extremely comfortable and familiar.  However, much like breaking in a new pair of loafers, the X3 was first met with discomfort and skepticism.  People simply dismissed it as a “3 Series with poorer dynamics and not much additional room”.  Yet, the same critics soon embraced it and the X3 transformed into one of BMW’s steady sellers.  I was there—learning and enjoying my X3 shoes; and each time I handed it back to the BMW handlers, always yearned for the next time.  And that time came, and lucky for me, it lightning struck twice.

The best reason to take a BMW for a spin is to experience its technology.  After all, that’s the reason you’re buying one anyway.  So, it’s no surprise that BMW engineers are always keen to deliver a perfect product, constantly upgrading the specifications in order to incorporate the latest and most advanced stuff.  The biggest leap happened about two years ago when BMW gave the X3 a much more cosmopolitan profile by adding softer contours to the bumpers outside and of course, a much needed boost in engine performance.  But you’ve probably read that before so it’s not news to you.  So, let me fast forward a bit and introduce you to the latest X3 that incorporates BMW Navigation technology.

The first experience I’ve had with any sort of navigation system was with the X3’s system in Germany.  Being in a foreign land that only understood a fair amount of English, it was imperative that I get to Berlin from Munich (via BMW’s Leipzig plant) in around five hours or I wasn’t going to make it to a press event.  My brother did warn me that he wasn’t fond of Audi’s navigation system (it’s dumb he says), I too was initially apprehensive about BMW’s system.  As I set off though, I was beginning to change my mind about it.  This is one excellent navigation system.

For other markets such as Germany, the X3, like most other BMW models can be ordered with a built-in navigation system.  It replaces the dashboard bin on the standard issue X3, but doesn’t use an iDrive controller, like the newer models do.  Instead, you input your destination via knobs and buttons incorporated on the audio system.  The interface is less graphical than the iDrive system requiring some adjustment, but after that, it’s easy to master.  It worked like a charm, and you can even input your own desired avoidances and preferred roads to take.  It even warns you of road construction and traffic jams enabling you to set an alternative route on the go.

As for the X3’s performance, I was extremely happy with it, thank you very much.  There’s a saying that a BMW isn’t a BMW without an inline-6 and a manual transmission.  And the same is true with the X3.  The right engine transforms this already potent car into a beast.  With 3.0-liters of displacement, it pushes out 260 horsepower and 305 Nm of torque.  Impressive these figures maybe, but on the speed limitless German Autobahn—these feel just right, especially given the X3’s brick-like profile.  The 6-speed manual’s also slick and engages with precision.  The clutch is less grabby than those found in BMW diesels which make for an extremely enjoyable long-distance drive.

After such a wonderful time in BMW’s homeland, it was time for me to head home and once again say goodbye to the X3 3.0si.  This wasn’t the last time I’ll see this particular car and navigation system though, as BMW Philippines soon introduced their own navigation system in the X3.

Wherever we go, we simply love to pick the X3 as our traveling companion. The trunk space is generous and the driving is athletic.

The factory-installed BMW Navigation System in the X3 3.0si replaces the center console bin. When needed, the screen pops out of the dash. It has real-time traffic and routing information but no voice command.

The Philippine BMW Navigation System is similarly located on the dashboard, however the GPS unit itself is made by Garmin.