X3 in the Market

The compact luxury crossover segment has undergone a revolution since the first-generation X3 debuted. Both the Q5 and GLK-Class have become popular sellers, while X3 sales have lagged behind.

The redesigned X3 puts BMW in position to retake some of the market thanks to its more forgiving ride. Despite some shortcomings, it's still luxurious enough to cut it in this segment, and its more competitive starting price that's about $2,000 less than the 2010 X3 won't hurt, either.

    See also:

    BMW TwinPower Turbo technology in the new four-cylinder engine
    This new engine is the most powerful in a new generation of four-cylinder petrol units based on the same reduced-friction core engine, their different output ratings being achieved principally by ...

    Switching on automatically
    Select transmission position R with the engine running. ...

    Safety
    BMW's inflatable tubular Head Protection System includes side curtain-type airbags for the first and second rows. Front-seat side-impact airbags are installed, and rear side-impact airbags are opt ...