2012 BMW X3 Review
The 2012 BMW X3 compact luxury crossover SUV comfortably accommodates 5 and is offered in two trims corresponding to engine; the xDrive28i that generates 240hp and 221lb-ft of torque and the turbo-charged xDrive35i that generates 300hp and 300lb-ft of torque. Standard is an 8 speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and AWD. Just a few of the standard features include 8 way power front seats, auto headlights/wipers, auto climate control, tilt/telescopic leather wrapped steering wheel, cruise control and much more. There are numerous optional packages, as well as stand-alone options to personally customize a BMW X3 for individual tastes and requirements.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The BMW X3 envelops its occupants in a high quality, first class cabin and offers all passengers ample room to stretch out with a surprising amount of legroom for the backseat passengers.
What’s New For 2012:
Other than some minor shuffling around of optional equipment packages, the BMW X3 is basically unchanged for 2012.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power rated the 2012 BMW X3 overall initial quality 2 out of 5 with a rating of 3 awarded for features and accessories mechanical quality. The initial quality study also reflected a rating of 2.5 for powertrain mechanical and design quality, along with body and interior mechanical/design quality.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The BMW X3 is a 2012 IIHS Top Safety Pick and is equipped with safety equipment including antilock disc brakes, side and front-seat/full length side curtain airbags, and stability control with hill descent control.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+Powerful engines
+Comfortable seating & generous legroom in backseat
+High quality interior
Cons
-Not as family friendly as some
-Higher priced than some competitors
Head-To-Head Competition:
The BMW X3 has a slightly higher starting price than the Audi Q5 though is substantially less expensive than the Mercedes M-Class. The X3 offers a 240hp engine and a fuel economy rating of 19MPG city/25MPG highway, while the Q5 is powered by a 211hp engine and has a fuel economy of 20/27MPG; the M-Class has a 302hp engine rated at 17/22MPG. The Audi Q5 offers more headroom for front and backseat passengers than either the M-Class or Q5 and all three offer a basic warranty of 4years/50,000miles.
What Others Are Saying:
"There’s plenty of competition in the compact luxury crossover segment, but the X3’s distinctive styling, brisk acceleration, competent handling and roomy interior make it a stand-out." – Motor Authority
"BMW, the world’s biggest luxury car maker, takes less profit per vehicle than either Mercedes-Benz or Audi. Enter the redesigned X3. Built in Spartanburg, S.C., the new X3 is 4 inches longer and about 1 inch wider than the outgoing model." – Forbes
Read more about the 2012 BMW X3 at the BMW manufacturer site.
