ZOSicK
March 20th, 2004, 12:24 AM
http://www.autoweek.com/images_content/2004_02/dl-X3a_main.jpg
One of the comments we heard most frequently about the X3 is that it doesn’t feel like a BMW. What do we mean? For example, the doors don’t “thunk” shut, as is the case with all other Bimmers. While there is plenty of room inside, the dash materials as well as materials on the center console and door panels were not up to BMW standards on the test car we drove. It is not an awful environment, thanks mostly to incredibly supportive seats, but it is not what we have enjoyed from BMW for decades.
Perhaps the new ute’s biggest problem is that BMW’s own 325xi sportwagon costs $33,000, while the X3 starts at $36,995. The 325xi is a lovely car, and simply a delight to drive. In fact, it is a lot closer to being an Ultimate Driving Machine than is the X3.
2004 BMW X3
As-tested price: $43,445
Powertrain: 3.0-liter, 225-hp, 214-lb-ft I6; awd, five-speed automatic
Curb weight: 4067 pounds
0 to 60 mph: 7.9 seconds (mfr.)
AW observed fuel mileage: 18 mpg
http://www.autoweek.com/cat_content...t_code=00141224
$43k? fuk that. :motz2:
One of the comments we heard most frequently about the X3 is that it doesn’t feel like a BMW. What do we mean? For example, the doors don’t “thunk” shut, as is the case with all other Bimmers. While there is plenty of room inside, the dash materials as well as materials on the center console and door panels were not up to BMW standards on the test car we drove. It is not an awful environment, thanks mostly to incredibly supportive seats, but it is not what we have enjoyed from BMW for decades.
Perhaps the new ute’s biggest problem is that BMW’s own 325xi sportwagon costs $33,000, while the X3 starts at $36,995. The 325xi is a lovely car, and simply a delight to drive. In fact, it is a lot closer to being an Ultimate Driving Machine than is the X3.
2004 BMW X3
As-tested price: $43,445
Powertrain: 3.0-liter, 225-hp, 214-lb-ft I6; awd, five-speed automatic
Curb weight: 4067 pounds
0 to 60 mph: 7.9 seconds (mfr.)
AW observed fuel mileage: 18 mpg
http://www.autoweek.com/cat_content...t_code=00141224
$43k? fuk that. :motz2: