Vehicle: 2007 BMW X3 3.0SI with Activity Pkg, Comfort Pkg, M Sport Pkg and Premium Pkg
Price as tested: CDN$63400

Performance: When the original X3 introduced, it was being criticized as sluggish and rough-on-the-edges. This facelifted version finally got the powerplant it needed. In the past, 2.5L I-6 with 174hp was simply a dog while the 3.0L 218hp could only be described as more than adequate. The 218hp has become the base X3 motor, as a replacement for the legthegic 2.5L. On the other hand, the uplevel engine has become a 3.0L with advanced Valvetronic technology. 260 ponies and 225 lb/ft of torque have got enough performance to match with its propeller emblem. While it retains BMW straight-six’s legendary refinement and engine note, it finally got the performance that it desperately needs it in day 1. It no longer feels like pulling a ship during acceleration. The whole acceleration process is more relaxing and more in line with BMW’s performance image. Matched with this engine is 6-speed stick shift. This gearbox has typical BMW’s slightly long throw but very buttery smooth gearchanges. The clutch take-up is progressive and easily to modulate.

Handling: BMW engineers have finally soften the suspension and recaliberate the spring rates for better ride quality. In the past, we criticized the last X3 3.0i as ride like an unloaden full-size truck. Although the revised suspension still doesn’t have class-leading ride quality, its finally matched up with its peers. Dynamically, it remains a very good driver’s soft-roader. The steering provides typical BMW precision and feedback, without losing German car’s reassuring feel. X-Drive AWD works wonders during Westcoast’s freezing rain. When pushed hard into corners, there are still safe understeer before oversteers rear its ugly head. Thanks to one of the world’s finest dynamic stability control, BMW’s DSC-3, it controlled both understeer and oversteer without losing the adjustability that this Bavarian brand stands for.

Brakes: We already impressed with BMW’s stopping performance, the same goes for the X3. Under today’s freezing rain condition, its 4-wheel discs with ABS perform admirably. The stopping distance is short, while pedal retains BMW’s typical sure-footness feedback and control. ABS only kicks in when its necessary.

Interior: Just like its ride quality and performance, X3′s interior materials finally match up with its peers. Yes, its not class-leading. But at least BMW finally get rid of most rock-solid, cheap and brittle plastic trim pieces in the outgoing car. Some of the soft-touched plastic is enough to justify X3′s price tag. The rest of the interior is usual BMW fare. Clear and analog gauges. Efficient automatic climate control placed below stereo. Those leather seats are comfortable with 8-way power adjust for driver side.

Conclusion: If the outgoing X3 was one of the most disappointing cars I have ever driven, or the worse BMW ever produced. The facelifted X3 could well be described as a competent soft-roader that does everything well but nothing outstandingly. However, those who really want a soft-roader with propeller emblem finally got good reasons for their purchase. At the same time, they don’t need to prove how low the lease rates after purchased the vehicle.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2007 BMW X3 3.0SI
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Performance: 4/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 3.75/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 2.5/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 3/5
Value-for-money: 2/5

Overall rating: 2.5/5