X-tending the brand: BMW puts another "X" in the SUV column with hopes of bringing more converts to the brand

Automotive Industries, Dec, 2003 by John Peter

Interior materials are first rate, though BMW says that one complaint it got with the X5 was that owners were afraid to get it dirty. They needn't be afraid with X3. The interior looks light, yet rugged with all surfaces covered in materials that look like they'd be easy to clean.

The door panels are carved out to create plenty of shoulder and hip room and metal grab handles run from the top of the door to the bottom add a feeling of structural strength.

The rear seat folds down in a 60/40 split with the headrests removed, adding to the rear cargo area that features metal tracks in the floor designed for special cargo systems. BMW already has a bike rack available and others are on the way.

The roof rails are the same as found on all BMWs and can accommodate any BMW roof storage systems.

Base price for the X3 2.5i is $30,995 with the 3.0i base price coming in at $6,000 more. Both prices include a $695 destination charge.

BMW offers a premium package for each model. For an extra $3,800 you can equip your 2.5i with front fog lights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic climate control, a four-function on-board computer, leather wrapped steering wheel with multi-function controls, including cruise control, auto-dimming review mirror, power front seats with memory, maple sycamore dark interior trim, front center armrest, storage net in passenger footwell, upgraded interior lighting, attachment rails, a reversible, slip proof mat for the cargo area and BMW assist.

The package also includes a panorama sunroof that consists of two glass panels with a glass area of nearly 10 feet. Both panels tilt while the front panel opens. The sunroof also features a power-operated shade.

Add $3,300 to your 3.0i and get leather upholstery, four-way power lumbar support for the front seats, auto-dimming mirror, wood interior trim, Panorama moonroof and BMW Assist. All of the other features in the 2.5i package are standard on the 3.0i.

A sport package includes a sport suspension, 18-inch wheels and fires, black exterior trim and sport seats and steering wheel. A cold weather package adds a headlight cleaning system, heated seats and a ski bag. 2.5i owners can add a light package that includes front foglights, automatic headlight control, rain-sensing windshield wipers and Xenon Adaptive headlights.

The outboard lights of the Adaptive lighting system steer with the front wheels, controlled by an electronic control system and swiveled by servo motors, when the vehicle is moving forward.

BMW also offers 24 stand alone options including all-of-the-above plus a navigation system, park distance control, power folding mirrors, metallic paint, SIRIUS radio, a six disc CD changer, auxiliary audio input, privacy glass and a rear cargo net.

All X3s come standard with dual-stage driver and passenger airbags and side curtain Head Protection System. Rear seat side-impact bags are optional.

Front seat belts include automatic tensioners and force limiters.

Aluminum reinforcing bars strengthen the body side and, in the event of a serious side impact, hook into the body as the door deforms. The system is designed to allow the doors to be opened after impact.