Review BMW X3 SUV

"The BMW X3 brings the quality and luxury of a premium SUV to the compact sector" The BMW X3 is essentially a shrunken version of the firm's X5. It's available with a choice of three diesel engines - a 2.0-litre four-cylinder and two 3.0-litre six-cylinder units - and all offer impressive performance combined with low running costs. The range topping xDrive35d is very powerful. It produces 313bhp and 630Nm of torque, which gives it a 0-62mph time of 5.8 seconds - which is faster than some sports cars. The entry-level xDrive20d, on the ohter hand, returns 50mpg and emissions of 149g/km, so it's relatively cheap to run. The X3's interior is beautifully made and very comfortable on longer journeys, and the car also has a huge boot. All X3s feel sporty, even when fitted with the excellent eight-speed automatic transmission, and are very easy to drive. Entry-level SE models are reasonably well equipped, including leather seats, front and rear parking sensors and air conditioning. M Sport models have even more kit, but the larger alloy wheels spoil the car's comfort. Drive4.6 /5 3.0-litre versions offer sports car-rivalling pace The X3 is great fun to drive for an SUV, with very impressive on-road handling. There is also masses of grip from the xDrive four-wheel-drive system, which is also good for some light off-road work. All models corner with very little body roll, and when fitted with the optional Variable Damper Control (VDC) system, even the firmer M Sport versions can handle the bumps with ease. The engines impress the most however, pulling from very low in the rev range and providing impressive performance - the 3.0-litre models are capable of completing the 0-62mph sprint in just 6.2 seconds. Not bad for an SUV that weighs nearly two tonnes! Comfort4.5 /5 Opt for the Variable Damper Control (VDC) for the best ride The front seats are very comfortable in the X3, providing support on both twisty roads and on longer motorway journeys. Rear passengers are equally well catered for unless sat in the middle seat, where legroom is restricted due to the large transmission tunnel. Wind and road noise is well managed, with very little of it entering the cabin, even at high speed. Reliability4.8 /5 Solid and dependable, the BMW X3 is safe and reliable The BMW X3 feels well screwed together, and the experts at Euro NCAP awarded it a five star rating in 2011, so it's very safe. Deformation zones in the bodywork are designed to absorb the force of impacts, and on the inside, both passenger and driver get front and side airbags as standard. The X3 also uses BMW's extensive range of brake and stability control systems. The engine range is the same as that found in other BMW models, so they are tried and tested and should be reliable. BMW offers a servicing package that covers five years of maintenance for a price that's a lot less than paying for five services separately. Practicality4.5 /5 The huge boot also doubles up as a useful bench seat There is loads of legroom in the rear, and the wide-opening rear doors make climbing in and out easy. However, the high transmission tunnel means the central seat is quite uncomfortable. The large boot has a flat floor with no lip, so sliding heavy luggage in and out of the X3 is relatively painless. It also acts as a useful seat. Fold the seats flat and a huge load carrying area is created. Up front, the glovebox, door bins and central cubbies are big and useful. Value for money4.0 /5 It's expensive, and the options can quickly jack up the price While the X3 is well equipped, even in entry level SE trim, the asking price is rather expensive when compared to the Land Rover Freelander. M Sport models come with sports seats, large alloy wheels and sports styling, but command a huge £6,000 premium over SE models. Optional extras are also pricey, including the excellent Variable Damper Control (£930), split folding rear seats (£170), glass sunroof (£1,180) and automatic gearbox (£1,525). Running costs4.5 /5 You'll be amazed at how fuel efficient the X3 is The whole range of BMW X3s are very fuel efficient when you consider their size and the performance on offer. Even the 313bhp xDrive35d range-topper returns 46mpg. The smaller-engined xDrive20d is very impressive, as it's capable of 50mpg and has emissions of 149g/km, so owners face annual Road Tax of £130. At the time of purchase, BMW offers a five-year/60,000 mile 'Service Inclusive' service plan on X3 models for £350, which represents great value.