Exterior

The exterior remains the same for 2009, and the X3 retains its awkward angles, disjointed taillights and odd lower bodywork. It's not unattractive, but it sure isn't as stylish as Mercedes' new GLK350, Audi's Q5 or the new Volvo XC60, which actually turned heads when I tested it recently.

    See also:

    Drive away without delay
    Do not wait for the engine to warm up while the vehicle remains stationary. Start driving right away, but at moderate engine speeds. This is the fastest way for the cold engine to reach its oper ...

    Eight-speed automatic transmission: sporty, fuel-efficient, and unique in a compact car
    The standard six-speed manual petrol and diesel versions of the new BMW 1-Series offer efficient power transmission and precise gear changes. The BMW 1-Series is also the only compact car also ava ...

    The concept
    The following can be operated using the buttons and the thumbwheel on the steering wheel: Current audio source. Redial on telephone*. Activation of the voice activation system*. ...