I've been a fan of BMW's awd 3 Series since the E30 325ix. I came across one just recently at the JGTC races and was compelled to snap a few pics (these suckers are really rare). I admired its sporty demeanor and additional awd utility. I always thought a lifted 325ix wagon would be cool. It appears as though my wish has been answered.
In a steel-clad nutshell, that's what the X3 is. Beneath the surface sits BMW's venerable 3 Series in all its fundamental goodness. By now, everyone and their mother knows this; the real question is what it means. The short answer is the X3 behaves like a basic AWD sport sedan, only it can hold a lot more stuff. Wanna drift through that corner? Go wild. The X3 can handle it. Wanna drive through the sand? No worries. Of the new breed of smaller SUVs, BMW's X3 makes the most sense. It's neither too big nor too small. Additionally, it feels like a proper BMW and its build quality should make the crew from Munich proud.
I don't know what the hell tech-ed Chen was saying about the X3's shape and color because it is a fine looking vehicle. And if I see one more BMW in silver, black or flat red, I'm gonna scream. Our X3's metallic rust paint is very unique and makes the car easy to find in a crowded lot.BMW would be pleased to know we are using the X3 exactly as it was intended. No one ever feels like they are "stuck" in the X3 for the weekend. It's both fun to drive and very utilitarian, especially when the rear seats are folded down. We managed to stuff a 12-foot Liquid Amber tree in the X3, gently lowering it through the X3's massive moon roof. Afterwards, we played hooky and went to the beach, 8-foot long boards in tow.
Since the X3 came aboard, we seem to be missing a lot more work. While the X3 may not be the "ultimate driving machine" it certainly is the "ultimate party machine." Favorable endorsements don't get any better than that.
Quick Stats
Total Mileage: 5902
This month's fuel economy: 25 mpg
Thumbs up: Gigantic moon roof, big rear hatch, fun factor
Thumbs down: Church pew-like rear seating