Test drive: BMW X3 simply superb

This week, we’re driving BMW’s redesigned 2007 X3 SUV, a model introduced in 2004 that receives its first major upgrade. BMW says its X3 is so new, and so unlike an SUV, it should be called SAV — Sports Activity Vehicle.

Built on the famous 3 Series platform of compact sport sedans, the new X3 offers more power under the hood, great handling and the addition of “3.0si” to the X3 nomenclature. After driving this vehicle over 400-miles in all types of weather, we agree with BMW’s assertion!

BMW’s philosophy of building the finest motorcars in the world is intact with the new X3 3.0si, from its kidney shaped front grille and four headlights to the long hood and short overhang design doctrine. This motif is a result of BMW engineers’ pursuit of the “perfect balance,” resulting in fresh upgrades that never encumber BMW’s ability to present its “luxury/sport” design in a discreet yet elegant manner.

Built in Graz, Austria, a more powerful aluminum/magnesium inline 3.0-liter sits under the hood awaiting driver input. At 260-horsepower, it delivers 35 more ponies than last year, yet still provides 19 city and 26 highway EPA numbers. A new 6-speed automatic, replacing last year’s 5-speed, receives credit for these great EPA numbers thanks to smart gearing. Last year, the X3 delivered 16 and 23 with the 5-speed automatic, so BMW receives extra kudos for this accomplishment.

On the road, X3 3.0si’s smaller than usual “SUV” (oops-SAV) size provides nimble driving in city situations, which we encountered while attending the Eastern Motorsport Press Association Convention in Philadelphia.

On the turnpikes and freeways, we mashed the throttle while merging up to 65-mph, and were rewarded with appreciation for BMW’s added horsepower. It’s not neck-breaking, but we did run a few 0-60-mph stints in the 7.5-second range and passed anything in front of us with ease. Thus, we warn consumers to keep your eyes on the speedometer, as this vehicle is ready for Autobahn style cruising.

The transfer of power to the wheels procedure also deserves note, as an intelligent “x-Drive” all-wheel drive system provides optimum performance and traction in virtually all driving situations. We experienced firsthand the attributes, as we ran into some slippery weather conditions on our trip, including some snow, and the X3 handled everything with perfection.

Our tester came with the optional Cold Weather Package for $1,000 that includes heated front and rear seats, retractable headlight washers and a ski bag. The cost is a bit salty, but those four heated seats went over big as temperatures dropped to single digits.

Other higher priced options that pushed the base to $47,320 include a $2,450 Premium Package and an $1,800 Navigation system. We do not recommend the Premium Package, although Navigation is always handy.

Safetywise, BMW is ahead of most of the competition. All expected airbags are standard, and a Head Protection System adds further protection to the heads of front and rear seat occupants from hitting the side window and being hit by objects penetrating the side window. Add Dynamic Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, 4-wheel disc ABS w/Brake Drying assist, and rear tail lamps designed to shine brighter during hard, panic style stops, and you realize you are driving one of the safest cars on the road.

So, what did we like best? Hands down, the handling. The X3 3.0si is superb, thanks to lower center of gravity, near perfect 51 front/49 rear weight ratio and BMW’s famous, albeit firm, four-wheel independent suspension.

We wonder what the addition of the optional Sport Package, where tweaked suspension and 19-inch tires replace the standard 17-inchers, would do for our love of this vehicle.

Important numbers include a wheelbase of 110.1, 17.7-gallon fuel tank, 30-cubic feet of cargo space, and 4,067-pound curb weight.

BMW’s new X3 “SAV” receives a strong 8.9 on a scale of one to 10.

Likes: Handling, power, looks, overall build characteristics.

Dislikes: Engine hesitated starting a few times, some options overly expensive.