« Saab 93, 2007: Savvy Swede Holds Its Own With New Design | Main | Vcar.com.uk Provides Great Deals On UK Used (And New) Cars »

Aug23
BMW X3, 2007: New Name, Nice Wheels, High Price

The car review publication, Consumer Guide, describes the 2007 BMW X3 as "rebadged." It's now called the 3.0si, replacing the 3.0i. The upgrades include a six-speed automatic transmission, instead of the 2006 five-speed (A six-speed manual transmission remains from previous years). Horsepower has been increased from 225 to 260.x3.jpg

Like any BMW, the new six-cylinder, 3.0-liter, all-wheel-drive  X3 does well on the open road. It accelerates promptly at all speeds, maneuvers adeptly in traffic and offers driver and passenger(s) sufficient, but not overly spacious comfort.

Although classified as a compact SUV, the X3 has a larger feel. It negotiates bumps with ease and its steering and handling are strong. The vehicle's turning radius is tight and braking is firm — all qualities expected of the German/Austrian-built BMW.

But like I have with numerous other vehicles, one true test comes when negotiating Pacheco Pass, the winding and off-camber 12-mile stretch on Highway 152 in Santa Clara County in Central California. I'm not a particularly aggressive driver and in some SUVs, I'm leery on sharp cornering. But it wasn't an issue with the X3. Steep, sweeping descents were handled without issue or any "tipping over" feeling.

Conversely, on the return route, the X3 didn't do as well as expected on several sustained inclines. The BMW didn't struggle, but particularly when the air conditioning was on, the X3's road authority waned.

Like all BMWs, the X3 has a handsome if unspectacular interior. My test vehicle's "Highland Green" exterior was nicely complemented by "Sand Beige" leather seats and a black console.

The standard features list for the new BMW is generous, but several important, high-priced optional packages and additional charges add nearly another $10,000 to the base price.

There are minor issues. There could be more cupholders and XM radio should be included for the manufacturer's upscale reputation. And the overly sensitive obstacle sensors are annoying.

Still, there's little to criticize about the new X3, with the exception of its hefty price. Compact SUV and $50,000 don't seem like compatible terms.

BMW X3, 2007 (Facts & Figures):
Safety — Dual front and door-mounted side impact airbags. Rear airbags optional; Fuel Mileage (estimates) – 19 mpg (city), 26 mpg (highway); Warranty – Bumper to bumper, 4 years/50,000 miles; Corrosion, 12 years/unlimited  miles; (24-hour) roadside assistance program, 4 years/50,000 miles; Free schedule maintenance, 4 years/50,000 miles; Base Price – $38,000.

Do you own this vehicle? Let me know what you think. 


0 Comments/Trackbacks




submit a trackback

TrackBack URL for this entry:

post a comment

Name, Email Address, and URL are not required fields.





Comment Preview

« Saab 93, 2007: Savvy Swede Holds Its Own With New Design | Main | Vcar.com.uk Provides Great Deals On UK Used (And New) Cars »

Advertise

sponsored ads



subscribe


Prefer Email?
Subscribe below-

Enter your Email:


Powered by FeedBlitz What's this?

Current News

Support This Blog

business social media

Use these fast growing business social media sites to promote your business, feature your products, spotlight your business leaders, create links, and drive traffic back to your company site, all for free!

BIZZlogos - Add your logo - free link to your site
BIZZphotos - Add photos of your products and people
BIZZprofiles - Submit your profile and build your online visibility
BIZZspotlight - Spotlight your business with free links
BIZZvideos - Videos about businesses, products and business people.
BIZZbites - "Digg" for Business - Submit your articles and posts

know more media network

View Network Map

Network Feed List (OPML)

Know More Media Network
Feed


we support unitus

PRWeb

Influencer



AutoMill is a member of the Know More Media network of business related blogs.

Here are some current headlines from some of our business publications:

ProductivityGoal

CallCenterScript

AdHurl

TheBizofKnowledge

LandingTheDeal

CustomersAreAlways

HealthCareVox

BrainBasedBusiness

TheInsurancePolicy

MarketingBlurb