Safety

The X3 earned a 2009 Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the agency's highest award. That means it earned top scores in IIHS' frontal-offset, side-impact and rear crash tests. All X3s have standard electronic stability control and a full complement of airbags.

As of publication, the Q5, GLK350 and XC60 hadn't been tested by IIHS.

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    Applying
    The lever automatically engages after being pulled up. ...

    Built for Curves
    Like BMW's cars, the X3 offers top-notch road manners. Some may find the steering wheel too difficult to turn, but its heavy rotations render spot-on directional control. The meaty steering wheel ...

    Storage compartments
    The following storage compartments are available in the vehicle interior: Glove compartment on the driver's and front passenger side. Storage compartment in the center armrest, in the front ...