Over the last several years, I’ve test-driven a flotilla worth of sport utility and crossover vehicles that have the body roll of a dinghy in a ship’s harbor. Some manufacturers have taken note of this vomit-inducing phenomenon, thus producing vehicles with less of a wet noodle suspension. Bavarian engineers from BMW offer up not just an anti-boat rocking “sport activity vehicle” with the 2013 BMW X3 M Sport, but also a more environmentally conscious engine.
In this particular article, you’ll be able to see the specs of the tester, along with basic impressions. Future articles will cover features more in-depth, along with everyday use, utility and maintenance or warranty issues.
Tested Sticker and Configuration of 2013 BMW X3 28i M Sport
MSRP: $38,500
As configured MSRP: $52,725 (includes destination charge of $895)
Tested Options:
- Space Gray Metallic Paint: $550
- Convenience Package: $1,300 (Comfort Access keyless entry, rear manual side window shades and Xenon headlights)
- Cold Weather Package: $700 (Heated steering wheel, 40-20-40 split folding rear seats, and heated front seats)
- M Sport Package: $3,000 (19” M alloy double spoke wheels, performance control, sport seats, aerodynamic kit, shadowline exterior trim, anthracite headliner, M steering wheel with paddle shifters
- Premium Package: $3,450 (Panoramic moonroof, auto-dimming mirrors, ambiance lighting, leather seating
- Premium Sound Package: $950 (SiriusXM satellite radio, Harmon Kardon hi-fi system)
- Technology Package: $3,200 (Rear view and top view cameras, park distance control, navigation system, BMW Assist with Bluetooth telephone connectivity and USB, Realtime traffic updates
- Cargo Net: $180
- BMW All-Weather Floor Mats: $81.00
First Impressions
- The all-new engine doesn’t play the silky sweet sounds of an inline six-cylinder power plant BMW is known for, but in the age of higher gas prices, the 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbo eases the pain at the pump
- The longer wheelbase — over the previous generation model — provides a supple ride
- The technology options available in this car can boggle the mind if your not careful
- The driver selectable, “Sport” mode turns the engine into a beast
- The 63.3-cubic feet of cargo volume (rear seats folded) make this family wagon a first place podium finisher in the utility department
- The lack of a spare tire raises the anxiety level of this reviewer
- Competition from Audi, Acura and Cadillac nips at its heels, especially in the price department
Stay tuned for the next review, which provides an in-depth summary of vehicle impressions.
Ryan’s passion for automobiles began at age eight when his father brought home the quintessential sports car: A Guards Red, 1974 Porsche 911 Targa. Ever since, his free time has been consumed with following the latest developments of the automotive industry.
