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.

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The concept
The central locking system becomes active when the driver's door is closed. The system simultaneously engages and releases the locks on the following: ► Doors. ► Tailgate. ► ...

Storage compartments in the cargo area
Left storage compartment A storage compartment is located on the left side. Net Small objects can be stowed in the net on the left side. Right storage compartment Located on the right side is ...

Reassigning individual programs
1. Switch on the ignition. 2. Hold the hand-held transmitter a distance of approx. 2 to 8 in/5 to 20 cm from the memory buttons. 3. Press the memory button of the universal remote control. 4. ...