2011 BMW X3 Review by Mike Hanley

The BMW X3 may have been a pioneer among compact luxury crossovers, but a number of competitors — including the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class and Volvo XC60 — have entered the fray since its debut as a 2004 model. Now, with the second-generation X3, BMW has new metal to take them on.

The 2011 BMW X3 is still the small luxury crossover of choice for driving enthusiasts, but its substantially more forgiving suspension tuning should make the new version far more appealing.

I tested the base xDrive28i, which starts at $36,750; with options, our test car's sticker price was $43,875. For a side-by-side comparison with the competitors mentioned above, click here.

See also:

Tilt alarm sensor
The tilt of the vehicle is monitored. The alarm system responds in situations such as attempts to steal a wheel or when the car is towed. ...

Drive-off assistant
This system supports driving away on gradients. The parking brake is not required. 1. Hold the vehicle in place with the foot brake. 2. Release the foot brake and drive away without delay. Afte ...

Gear shift indicator
The concept The system recommends the most fuel efficient gear in the current driving situation. Displays Indicators to shift up or down are displayed in the instrument cluster. ...