The week I drove the X3 I got 8.7 L/100 km, which is slightly higher than the estimated mileage by BMW. The vehicle is prissy, easy to park and handles like a luxury car.
The BMW X3 is the ideal car for city driving. It is small in size, yet there is more than ample room for driver, and front and rear seat passengers’ comfort. When parking is at a premium, the X3 can go just about anywhere a compact can fit. But the comfort seat lumbar support, digital mirror, navigation system, HD radio, and premium audio sounds let you know quickly that this is luxury along the styling of Mercedes.
Safety is not only a virtue found in the X3, but is a standard that is complied with fully by BMW. Dynamic Stability Control, including Brake Drying, Brake Stand-by, Start-off Assistance and Brake Fade Compensation are standard in BMW’s line of outstanding features. Xenon headlights allows the driver to see better at a distance straight ahead as well as providing better light peripherally. Of course, Halogen free-form fog lights also aid in better driver’s night vision.
BMW has a 4-year/80,000 km Full Maintenance Program and a 4-year/80,000 km limited warranty. Twelve-year rust perforation limited warranty and a 4-year/unlimited mile BMW Roadside Assistance Program.
If I were to build a luxury car like the X3 I would add an additional feature or two. I would have several more cup holders than the single holder of the X3, plus small and medium-sized compartments located on the dash for holding a cell phone, sunglasses, etc.
The 4-function on-board computer with Check Control vehicle monitor system was somewhat difficult for me to master to the point where I felt comfortable. But for about $51,000, you get a superbly designed and engineered luxury automobile.
After dinner one evening I gave the valet the ticket to retrieve the X3. When the car was brought around I couldn’t help but bask in the glow of the comments from fellow diners waiting for their cars. I felt successful, privileged, and blessed to drive such a fine automobile.
Durhl Caussey is a writer whose car column is read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected]
