2011 BMW X3

This vehicle is just a crossover, but it is not a real crossover and that its looks and trough are not very clearly defined to say that it is a crossover. There is bodyroll at speeds of more than 4000 rpms. Also there is turbo-lag in this vehicle.  The gears are a bit slippery and the steering sometimes is a bit tight when steering at high speeds. Actually the type of tyres for this vehicle is not at the level they ought to be.  Even a tyre for the mercedes benz ML 350 would be the apt set for this vehicle as the tyres very much kiss the road more than keeping it at a blade's end. The ride is very harsh with  lack of off-road capability and that the H-point seating very much would give a stress and strain to the low back region of the person who is driving. Also the mileage is just not more than 9.5 kmpl and any rework may result in the engine performance going BOING! GA! GA!.Ride quality, Status SymbolIt is just a crossover with no off road ability

Exterior : Looks fabulous from every angle; with 8 colour options. Sleek and powerful. In a word WOW!   Interior (Features, Space & Comfort): Spacious interiors with colour options for double stiched uphlostery. The dashboard layout is simple, and controls are eazy to find. It can seat 5 comfortably. The rear seats fold to increase the boot space. For those who like to worry about office & keep in touch, while driving, there is the "iDrive", with a high resolution screen. For music lovers, Hi-Fi loudspeaker system (12 speakers, 205W), 6 DVD changer. Conectivity for USB devices, Bluetooth, and mobile music player. Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox: The 20d has 4 cylinder, 2 lit engine delivering 184 PS and max torque of 380 Nm. The 30d has a 6 cylinder, 3 lit engine delivering 258 PS and max torque of  560 Nm. The 8 speed automatic transmission  delivers power smoothly and strongly. It has Dynamic Drive Control and the car smoothly shifts between Normal, Sport & Sport+ modes.  Fuel economy is pretty good, and the automatic Start/Stop function, and brake regenaration feature increase it for the power this car generates. (Note: The one mentioned in the Mileage is for the 20d) Ride Quality & Handling The placement of the longitudional engine is such that it gives the car a very good road grip. The independant suspension for all the four wheels, the precise response to electrically assisted direct steering, for this all wheel drive help you to weave through traffic, or even at high speeds give a firm road grip. Cruse control with braking system has been provided, making long drives comfortable. The high driving position gives better road view, and is an advantage while manoeuvering the car. SAFETY:  BMW X3 Gets Maximum 5-Star Euro NCAP RatingCrash Test: Highest Points: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FoXHcSoIkk Final Words On the basis of performance, the BMW X3 won the Bloomberg UTV-Autocar Luxury SUV of the Year 2012 award. Has 2 engine options, 2-litre and 3-litre, both are disel so more economical to run in India, has 21.2 cm ground clearence, so belly won't scrape on the crater ridden indian roads (especially during monsoons), or some axle breaking speed brakers. Has wide 17" (20d) and 18" (30d) ensure great road grip, great ride. Finally a BMW is a BMW, quality comes with the label. Areas of improvement   In a hot country like India with summer tempratures around 42-48 degree Celcius, a SUN-ROOF is not a desirable or a luxury feature (as in Europe where it is very cold, and, 25 degrees Celcius is considered piping hot). Here we need protection from the sun.  Indian city roads and highwars are heavily smoke and dust laden. So a powerful air filter for the air conditioner, and an air ioniser would be highly desirable to protect the lungs. Can run on a flat-tyre, but a spare wheel is still desirable.Neat ground clearence 21.2 cm (must for crater ridden indian roads), disel; so easy on the pocketsun roof not a desirable feature in hot country like INDIA