BMW’s 2.5 six is capable of real fireworks, but in the X3 it has a tough job. It is far from slow, as shown by an 8.9sec 0-60mph sprint. A leisurely 14.2sec to pull from 50-70mph in sixth is an indication of the 2.5’s high-gear lethargy, however.
If dynamic standards are high in this sector, BMW has only itself to blame – the X5 first showed us that tall needn’t mean ungainly. Conscious that these cars will rarely stray from sealed Tarmac, BMW has focused on delivering another SUV that believes it is a sports saloon. The X3 responds keenly to steering inputs, despite a slowish 3.4 turns lock to lock, and generally imparts an impression of agility that seems at odds with the towering body and lofty driving position.
Without the optional (£90) sports suspension, our SE-spec car rolled a little on corners, but along a twisty road it would leave the off-road competition for dead. If something approaching driving enjoyment is on your 4x4 wish list, the X3 is near the top of a very short list.
Tempering this success is a ride quality that doesn’t impress so much. Passengers can feel unsettled as the tyres munch on potholes and surface repairs, and the constant sharp, vertical motions at higher speeds set heads and bodies jogging.
We can’t put this down to run-flat tyres (the X3 doesn’t wear them) and the tyres were not monstrously huge – standard 235/55 R17 Bridgestone Turanzas. On this showing it seems unlikely that the Sport variant’s bigger wheels and stiffer suspension could be anything but unbearable on British roads.
As for the X3’s off-road ability, it should prove more than adequate for 95 per cent of buyers, who are unlikely to burden it with anything more strenuous than towing duties. Serious mud-plugging is out, but the benefits of all-wheel drive are still tangible in daily driving. Treat the BMW as you would an Audi A4 Quattro and you’ll understand that the car’s biggest benefit is the security of greater on-road traction.