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2004 BMW X3 3.0i

Date: 25 June 2004	Miles: -
We've been turning on and off the roads a lot with this 2004 BMW X3 3.0i sports-activity vehicle. As BMW's second utility, the X3 has a lot going for it. Compared to the larger X5, the X3 has a more user friendly interior, a larger cargo capacity, and a more advanced X-Drive all-wheel drive system. What it lacks compared to the X5 is its build quality. Our X3's side windows rattle and are very annoying. Since this is our first BMW to make such disquieting noises, we must conclude that it is at least due in part to the fact that the X3 is assembled by a supplier and not BMW itself. Otherwise, the X3 has exceeded our expectations. Our 225-horsepower 3.0-liter, 6-speed manual slogs through traffic and bogs with ease. Mileage at 21.4 is excellent for any sport-utility this size. And, rattles aside, it is a very comfortable and flexible vehicle on long trips. So, if our dealer can get the rattles to stop, our X3 really will be excellent.
Date: 17 September 2004	Miles: 15,000
Our emotions run strong on this 2004 BMW X3 3.0i sports-activity vehicle as well. With versatile seating for 5 and more cargo capacity than the larger X5, this luxury SUV retains the genes of a BMW 3-Series sport sedan, right down to our long termer's 225-horsepower 3.0-liter V-6 and short-throw 6-speed manual transmission. With an updated X-Drive all-wheel drive system, we find control effortless on the slickest, rain drenched roads. Plus, with 8-inches of ground clearance, the X3 can manage light off-roading as well. Except for the squeaking windows we've mentioned before, our X3 has been without fault. At almost 15,000 miles on the clock, fuel economy is quite good for any people mover at 21.1 miles per gallon. For the most sport in any sport utility, it's hard to find a stronger formula than the mid-size BMW X3.
Date: 29 October 2004	Miles: 17,400
Long drives in a vehicle with sport sedan prowess are a delight, if not always compatible with everyday demands. But this 5-passenger BMW X3 3.0i takes the ''Sport'' in Sport Sedan and matches it up with the ''UV'' in Utility Vehicle like no other . By now regular viewers know we had lots of window squeaks early on, but that has been eclipsed with the pleasure of piloting a vehicle that is so useful yet so rewarding. With a seamless X-Drive traction system, robust 225-horsepower inline-6, good visibility, and a generous cargo bay, the X3 commands all manner of practical respect. Respect, too, for the still rising 21.5 mile per gallon fuel economy, after 8 months and 17,400 miles. Who says a utility has to be a gas guzzler? Indeed, the X3 is a good ''sport'' for all seasons and reasons.
Date: 12 December 2004	Miles: 20,000
After a bumpy start, we think the 2004 BMW X3 3.0i sports activity vehicle looks smarter every day as well. This luxury SUV has the genes of a BMW 3-Series sport sedan, right down to our long termer's 225-horsepower 3.0-liter V-6 and short-throw 6-speed manual transmission. To that the X3 adds flexible seating for 5, high ground clearance, and capable X-Drive all-wheel drive traction. Our squeaking windows were cured by the dealer and the fix is holding up well. Mileage just crossed 20,000 in only 9 months. With fuel economy of 21.6 miles per gallon, it's very popular for long trips. Most SUVs this size are stuck well down in the teens. And the X3 is deceptive. While it looks compact -- it's shorter than a Saturn Vue the X3 has more cargo room, 71 cubic feet, than the larger X5. It is to us the perfect size package for a multi-purpose vehicle.
Date: March 2005	Miles: 22,000
Our 2004 BMW X3 3.0i provides a different take on luxury and utility, and after 12 months and 22,000 miles, we easily appreciate its attributes. Along with automatic all-wheel drive, the X3 has the spirit and most of the capabilities of a BMW 3-Series sport sedan, right down to the 225 horsepower 3.0-liter six. Our vehicle's short throw, 6-speed manual transmission adds a lot of driving pleasure to otherwise long, boring highway trips. And we're not complaining about the fine 21.1 mile-per-gallon fuel economy. Inside, you have all the comfort, safety, and purposeful style that is pure BMW. Plus, as we've noted before, there is more cargo room in an X3 than in its larger X5 brother. No wonder we think the X3 is the perfect SUV for anyone that enjoys the skill of driving well.