2009 BMW X3

For almost two decades, nimble, efficient sport-utility vehicles have been decidedly out of fashion. The BMW X3 3.0si is a leader among the first wave of an inevitable trend toward more svelte and energy-efficient SUVs. The 2009 BMW X3 3.0si shows that a smaller SUV can provide plenty of interior room, excellent acceleration and better fuel mileage in a very attractive and luxurious package. In the near future, expect X3s that make better fuel mileage and a smaller impact on the environment. In Europe, the vehicle is currently offered with four-cylinder gas and diesel engines. Hydrogen-fueled or a plug-in hybrid-electric version can’t be far behind.

Power and Performance

Rocketing or unstable fuel prices combined with a government-mandated increase in fuel mileage mean certain extinction for today’s gargantuan, six-ton SUVs that get about 12 miles per gallon in city driving, quickly wear out expensive tires and hog parking spaces. Compared to its big brother, the BMW X5 4.8, the X3 3.0si weighs about around 1300 pounds less. It’s also 11 inches shorter in length, three inches narrower and 3.5 inches less tall. This makes the X3 much easier to squeeze into crowded home garages, fit in miniature shopping mall parking places and slip through small holes in heavy traffic. While huge SUVs are often an intimidating challenge to park and maneuver in traffic, we found the X3 approaching the nimbleness of its 3 Series cousins.


The X3’s lighter weight and smaller frontal area translate into usefully better fuel mileage. The government says the X3 3.0si (with automatic) gets 17 miles per gallon in the city and 24 on the highway. The X5 4.8 is rated at 16 city and 19 highway, while the X5 3.0si that shares the same 3.0-liter six with the X3 is rated at 15 city and 21 highway.


U.S.-bound X3s are available only with a double-overhead cam inline six-cylinder engine. This 3.0-liter engine peaks out at an impressive 260 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 225 pound-feet of torque at a very low 2750 rpm. BMW offers enthusiasts a treat by making the X3 available with a six-speed manual. A six-speed automatic is a no-cost option.

Driving and Interior

BMW claims 0-60 mph acceleration of about seven seconds: That’s almost four seconds quicker than the early ‘70s BMW 2002tii, a car that helped develop the company’s reputation for great performing and handling vehicles. The X3 dispenses with the irritating and hard-to-use twin control stalks found on many other BMWs: Despite several thousand miles in a 3 Series, I still find myself flashing the high beams when I intend to cancel the cruise control and canceling the cruise when I want high beams. This is a great way to instigate road rage incidents. Instead of this confusing system, the X3 places the cruise switches on the steering wheel.


The X3’s interior is highlighted by attractive dark ash wood trim and an elegantly simple dash of high-quality textured surface. The satellite navigation system is far from intuitive, but that’s a common complaint among nav systems. While not as roomy as the X5, the X3 will easily swallow four full-size adults. The rear seats folds forward in a 60/40 split to increase cargo capacity when there are but two or three aboard. A net that rises from the rear seat back to the ceiling will contain light objects, such as sleeping bags. Heated rear seats are available. The standard sound system on the X3 3.0si features 10 speakers, is MP3-compatible and has and in-dash CD changer. The optional system stays with 10 speakers but upgrades their quality.