BMW X3 [2011-2014] User Reviews

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 Rating
Crash 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