The 2009 BMW X3 luxury compact SUV delivers quick, nimble handling in a well-built package that has improved consistently since its introduction in 2003. While the compact-luxury market offers a growing lineup of choices, the X3's unique road handling ability and BMW craftsmanship distinguish it from a crowded field.
Although best suited for pavement travel, the X3 comes standard with hill descent control, which slows the X3 to a walking pace for steep off-road downhill maneuvers. On uneven road surfaces or in poor driving conditions, BMW's Dynamic Stability Control system ensures that the vehicle remains stable when taking bends, speeding up or braking.
The X3 is powered by a 260 horsepower 3.0-liter inline-6, that sends power to BMW's xDrive all wheel drive through either a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual gearbox.
Fuel consumption for the X3 ranges from 16 miles per gallon city to 24 miles per gallon highway.
Base MSRP for the 2009 BMW X3 is $39,700. Fully loaded, expect to pay around $54,000. The X3 comes with a 4 year, 50,000-mile power train warranty.
The 2009 BMW X3 is not only a fun-to-drive alternative to larger, more cumbersome SUVs, but with features like Dynamic Stability Control, it delivers a high level of car-like driving confidence.