Edmunds dealer partner, Bayway Leasing, is now offering transparent lease deals via these forums. Click here to see the latest vehicles!

BMW X3

1…1617192122…65

Comments

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 16,421
    Why are you putting $4800 down on your lease? All that does is give BMW their money early and if your vehicle is stolen or totalled, you do not get it back.

    2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2022 Wrangler Sahara 4Xe, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD

  • jeff33jeff33 Member Posts: 22
    I have a 3.0 x3 on order. The only options are the moonroof, automatic transmission, cargo net (my labrador loves to ride), metallic paint, and a built in radio with Sirius satellite. How long does it take to go from production to dealer? Has anyone tried using mid grade or regular instead of hi-test? I'm also having a tow receptacle installed to carry a bike rack, anyone else have one dealer installed? BMW has also offered an extended service contract - for $1200 they will service for 6 years or 100,000 miles. Any opinions on the value here?
  • jzack24jzack24 Member Posts: 9
    Just to clarify, the price your dealer is quoting you is for extended maintenance, not an extended warranty. It will extend the coverage of oil changes, inspections, brakes, etc. (but not tires). Whether it is worth it or not depends on several factors, mainly how long you plan to keep it. I believe the MSRP for this plan is $995, so your price is a little high. You can also buy this later on -- as long as your original maintenance has not expired.
  • scotth6scotth6 Member Posts: 43
    I ran my 2001 X5 3.0 for 45,000 miles with midgrade (89 octane) with no ill effects. I have already filled my X3 3.0 up twice with mid grade and a couple of times with premium and I can not tell any difference, you should probably not go below 89 octane. I never heard of an extended maintenance program but I am very familiar with the certified and extended warranty of 6 years and 100,000 miles which I believe does cost $1200. If its the extended warranty theres no reason to do it until 4 years from now when your sure you want to purchase it off lease. I had to replace the front and rear rotors on my X5 and they ran a couple hundred dollars each time. My X5 had 3 years or 36,000 miles free maintenance. Overall maintance is relatively inexpensive until 50,000 miles when you have to do a few expensive maintenance items.
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    I've posted some different color shots of the X3. They are available at:

    photos.yahoo.com/bimmervsr

    If anyone has pictures of missing colors, please email the pics to me at bimmervsr@yahoo.com and I'll add them to the photo gallery.
  • gardencargardencar Member Posts: 293
    Thanks, vrsoman. It might be easier to just post the link:

    http://www.photos.yahoo.com/bimmervsr
  • atortoroatortoro Member Posts: 13
    wowow..never thought of that..thanks alot for the info!
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    I thought it was a link. Oh well! Glad you got it right. Hopefully, some of the folks who picked up their X3's will contribute pics of the elusive colors. Highland Green anyone?
  • ashleyandersinashleyandersin Member Posts: 34
    Can you give me some more details, i can help you out, I am in Los Angeles too. Can you e-mail me.. same name "AshleyAndersin at aol". I would like to ask who your dealer is and that info is not allowed to be posted on the boards.
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    Dealer names and location are fine - just avoid posting names of individuals please.

    Check out the Rules of the Road at the top (#6); it's short and sweet.

    Steve, Host
  • tucker74tucker74 Member Posts: 12
    Thanks for the pictures, especially the bluewater one. The color is so difficult to accurately capture since it often looks like plain old silver unless parked next to a silver car for contrast.
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    Dear Host:

    How does one go about requesting a new board? I think it would be very helpful.

    Thanks!
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    Not that we all haven't seen this color already!

    Still waiting for folks to email me pics of the other colors...send them to bimmervsr@yahoo.com

    View the gallery at

    http://photos.yahoo.com/bimmervsr
  • jeff33jeff33 Member Posts: 22
    I enjoyed your slideshow. My Mystic Blue is to be made in less than two weeks. I test drove a blue water and a metallic black. I also saw a highland green on the lot. I didn't care for it, as it was more of an off green than I expected. Thanks for the photos!
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    Did you search for it? Sometimes new boards don't get categorized right and don't show up in the lists:

    BMW X3: Prices Paid & Buying Experience

    Steve, Host
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    I am finally picking it up today. Anything that I should ask the dealer about.
    Any tips is appreciated
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    Here's a minivan checklist that should give you some ideas.

    Steve, Host
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    The list would be very useful!
  • atortoroatortoro Member Posts: 13
    Hi, i have just send you a message in my yahoo mail. let me know if you didn't get my message.
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    One question to those who already took the delivery. My sales person did not give me a video cassette for X3. However, he gave me a 3 series cassette which I thought was very informative. Did any of you get a video cassette or dvd with information about your car. I believe the video is more informative than the manual.

    I picked it up from the dealer yesterday night and it was snowing in jersey. There were some disappointments, the sales person promised mats but forgot about it. Finally, he gave rubber mats due to the weather. I will go back to buy regular mats as the parts dept was close by then. Major shock was when I did not see the controls on the steering wheel. I thought I will get the steering controls as standard. I believe it does in 325i. I wish I had got the premium package because I anyway ordered the moon roof and on board computer. With just few thousand more I would have got a lot more.

    I drove to work (50 miles) this morning (using the Nav.) and the drive was great. It made me forget all the short comings. If I were to go back I would add the prem package. There were some flurries this morning and the road was wet. The car handled very well. Please note that I had mentioned earlier in this board that I was not impressed with a test drive. I think this is much better than many of the sedans (including my wife's accord). The brakes are good. The pick-up is fantastic as well. I drove only D, did not try the S D (sporty drive) yet.

    I got black with black interior. The interior is great. I got black because I did not like the different color bumpers. However, you can get the Aero package with diff colors.
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    I cannot find the nav system and the spare tire at the trunk? Where is it placed?

    I drove the X5 just after the X3. X5 rides and feels more like a truck. Everything is heavier. 3.0 in X5 seems slower than 2/5 in X3.
  • harplayrharplayr Member Posts: 70
    Congratulations on finally getting your X3!
    The spare tire can be accessed by lifting up the floor compartment in the cargo section. I believe that the Nav is located behind the panel in the cargo section on the left hand side.

    I'm lovin my X3, the handling is great, and build quality has been excellent, no problems or rattles to date.
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    Thanks for your comments. Did you get the video cassette for your X3?
  • harplayrharplayr Member Posts: 70
    No, I was not aware that there was a video cassette. I've had the car for a month now, so it probably won't help much at this point, but my excitement hasn't worn off yet. This car is such a pleasure to drive. I can't believe I actually enjoy my 1hr+ commute each day.

    Have fun with your new car, and when you're not driving, please keep active here. I've really enjoyed your informative posts.
  • ailenlailenl Member Posts: 2
    Nice photos. I am waiting for my order to come in and axious to know how the beige interior looks like. Did anyone got one?
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    Any advice on last-minute items that I could ask my dealer to throw in as part of closing the deal?

    For instance, does the X3 come with floor mats or should I ask for that now? Any other moves I should make before I put pen to paper?

    BTW, this is a lease if that makes any difference.

    Thanks!
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    harplayr,
    I have a 1 hr commute each way and it has been a pleasure driving X3. I feel a lot safer driving this, with increased visibility and road grip.

    vsroman,
    Carpet depends on the dealer. I think some give it standard. Some add that to their invoice and others don't. I am sure they will throw it in if you ask for it before giving the check and the feedback. They are really concerned about the 5 rating. Also, I did not want to strain the relationship with the salesperson in case I need to go back for anything.
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    Monitor comes on everytime I change the track in the cd, even though I had turned off the monitor and closed it down.

    Anyone have the same problem or a solution?

    Thanks.
  • mamgtmamgt Member Posts: 67
    Last weekend I picked up my X3 3.0, mystic blue, black leather, steptronic, heated seats, privacy glass. I would have really liked to get the pan roof but at 6’3” I need all the headroom I can get. Without the roof I have an extra 1.5”. I finally got a chance to take the car for a long drive on some windy roads and all I can say is WOW, what a ride! Handling is just superb. It seemed like the car was glued to the road through every turn. I now understand what BMW is trying to accomplish with this SAV category. The X3 is really more car than SUV and is exactly what I was looking for: an all wheel drive sports sedan with more room. The engine is so silky smooth. Even the manual shifting of the step is so refined. Brakes are superb. I feel in total control of the road at all times. The X3 really has to be driven to be appreciated.

    SUSPENSION: Much has been written about the stiff suspension. I have never driven the sport package so I can’t comment on that. But I have “tested” the suspension on a notoriously bumpy road that I have traveled on for the past five years. My Pilot does have a slightly softer ride, but I definitely feel more in control in the X3 and the ride is plenty comfortable contrary to what some critics have suggested.

    OVERALL HEIGHT: Even though some reviews said the X3 was only 1.5” less tall than the X5, it always seemed to me that the difference was more. So I actually measured both vehicles. The difference is almost 3.5.” It turns out the X3 brochure includes the roof rails to the overall height of the vehicle while the X5 brochure does not. That difference in height definitely contributes to the X3’s significantly lower C.G. and improved handling.

    2.5 VS. 3.0: Besides wanting enough power for the worst scenario like four other passengers in the car with AC running and traveling uphill, I also wanted the ride to be as quiet as possible. From other posts I’ve read about the 2.5, I have found the 3.0 to run about 200 rpms lower at the same speeds as the 2.5. i.e. at 65 mph= 2.050 vs. 2250; 70mph = 2250 vs. 2450; 75mph = 2550 vs. 2750. For most others this is probably not significant, but it was a factor for me.

    STANDARD SOUND SYSTEM: The standard sound is fantastic, even cranked up. Definitely better than the premium sound in my Pilot.

    HEATED SEATS: Love them. They heat up instantly and they’re amazingly comfortable even for my 6’3” size. The side bolsters give me plenty of support.

    SOUND OF DOORS: Like others have reported, the doors do lack a bit of that traditional BMW thump sound. I studied them at length and they are indeed solid and they close very nicely. I know that car companies do considerable research to get a door to produce the right thump sound which gives the perception of solidity. But the lack of the thump does not necessarily mean the door is not as solidly built. Perhaps the door just needs some additional sound deadening material. In any event, it’s not a biggie for me.

    BLACK BUMPERS: Don’t know who really started it, but I’ve never had a problem with the black bumpers. In fact, I like them. I also like the painted ones. But this is not a luxury sedan. It’s a Sport Activity Vehicle and the black bumpers give it that sporty look.

    INTERIOR MATERIALS: Though others have complained about the inexpensive looking materials on the dash, I really like that texture and almost rubbery feel of the dash. I did not get the PP. For one, I don’t like wood trim and there wasn’t enough aluminum trim to make a difference. I prefer the rather spartan look of the regular trim.
     
    CUPHOLDERS: Lets just say it’s not one of BMW’s strengths.

    FRONT STORAGE: If I had gotten the Nav, I would be complaining that there isn’t enough storage space in the front. But luckily there is a nice compartment for sun glasses etc. in the dash.
      
    AUTO INDOOR REAR-VIEW MIRROR: A pleasant surprise since according to the brochure it was not included in the non-PP and I thought I wouldn’t get it (though I really wanted it).

    ANNOYANCE: Don’t know if others experience this and perhaps it’s because I’m tall, but the illuminated “Pass Airbag Off” indicator above the rear view mirror is downright annoying when driving at night. Perhaps there’s a way to turn it off. Pretty much my only gripe.

    Sorry for writing so much. Thanks to all who have contributed to this board. I’ve certainly learned a lot from reading the posts. Good luck with whatever vehicle you end up with.
  • rudikamprudikamp Member Posts: 34
    Thanks for your detailed report on your new X 3.
    It was very informative.Good luck and enjoy.
    Best regards , Rudi
  • x3rx3r Member Posts: 21
    lakshman-
    I just heard about this linkage from a friend of mine who works for BMW. I plan to ask him more when we have more time to speak but he said the navigation system and radio set up is the same as on the Z4 which means that when you change stations, the monitor comes up. Has that been your experience as well or is it just when you change CD audio tracks? Will let you know if he says there is a way to disable the link between the two.
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    mamgt, I think you got auto indoor rear-view mirror because it is standard with 3.0 while for 2.5 it is part of PP

    x3r, yes I am having the same problem. I think if I turn off RDS this may not happen. I will try and let you know.
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    is not part of the PP per Brochure and BMW website. Maybe BMW realized how riduculous that was and started including it with all 3.0's. IMHO all the X3's (and all bimmers) should have that standard.
  • mamgtmamgt Member Posts: 67
    Strange thing is I also looked at the window sticker and the auto dimming option is not listed anywhere while all the other options like rain sensor etc. are. Perhaps they made a mistake in my favor....when does that ever happen?? :-)
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    Perusing the lot yesterday I saw a 2.5 w/o Prem Pack and sure enough, there was the auto-dimming mirror. Guess it is being shipped standard on all x3s.
  • mamgtmamgt Member Posts: 67
    guess I'm not the only lucky one. :-)
  • centurioncenturion Member Posts: 2
    I am thinking of getting an X3 sometime between now and November. Is there a "best" time during the year to negotiate a good deal on an X3 (or a BMW in general)?

    For instance, when will BMW switch over to the 2005 model year? I presume that if I can find a 2004 I like in stock when the 2005 models are coming out, then I might get a better deal.

    What if I want to order an X3? Is there a particular time during the year when dealers are more flexible on pricing?

    I would appreciate any advice that X3 or other BMW buyers could offer.
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    Question regarding the button on the left of the nav. with up and down arrow. It just moves the nav. slightly, I expect it to move it up and down like when you do it with the hand. However, the right one for closing and opening is working as expected

    vsroman, I checked and agree that the auto-dimming is not standard with 3.0. My guess is that it is included when you order rain sensor. As with me, I got the storage compartment between driver and passenger free when I ordered the nav. I do not think you get anything by mistake.
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    reminds me to warn that I saw on the lot a sand leather/leatherette that had a gray storage compartment. Boy was that ugly and makes no sense to me why BMW would do that. Also, I have seen ugly gray carpet mixed with nice tan/sand interiors. Buyer beware!
  • harplayrharplayr Member Posts: 70
    Mine operates the same way. It seems kind of useless. I guess it is to be sued to adjust for glare or something, but it is just easier to adjust the screen angle by hand.
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    I seriously think it is a bug. The minute change the button does is of no use. It should be able to do what we do in hand.

    I remember reading about the flash light in the glove compartment. I looked and found none. Manual does not mention about it also.
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    Did you mention if your terracotta interior came with black carpet? I'm going to order the same color scheme...do I need to make sure that the dealer orders black carpet...did you?

    Any other comments now that you have had the X3 for a while now?

    Thanks for your feedback!
  • vsromanvsroman Member Posts: 95
    I have just been made aware of a rebate on X3's for the cost of the Automatic Transmission, $1275. This applies to X3's delivered by the end of April. So, you'll have to pick from the available regional stock. I'm not so sure that all dealers will voluntarily provide this information. I would negotiate a discount (about 1800 off MSRP seems to be the going number) and then ask about the 1275 rebate for the auto tran. Should get you a total discount off MSRP of around $3000.
  • tucker74tucker74 Member Posts: 12
    One point of clarification - I believe the incentive is for the 3.0 only and not the 2.5.

    After visiting a couple of dealers this past week I can understand why. Plenty of 3.0s sitting on the lot but no 2.5s in sight. The salesmen I talked to confirmed the suspicion that they're having a tough time moving the 3.0s priced so closely to the X5.
  • tucker74tucker74 Member Posts: 12
    According to the X3 brochure the 2.5 comes standard with "Leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel." I am sorry to hear that's not the case. Did the dealer indicate as well that steering wheel controls would be included in your car?
  • jeff33jeff33 Member Posts: 22
    My x3 3.0 is awaiting transport. The dealer made very clear to me the 2.5 would require the luxury package to get the multi function steering wheel. On the rebate; Does my ordered vehicle meet the eligibility requirements for the rebate? Where can I read about the rebate offer? Thanks.
  • mamgtmamgt Member Posts: 67
    I don't think you'll read about the discount (it's not a rebate). It's really between the dealers and BMW NA. It gives the dealers more to work with and totally up to them to pass it along. I tried to get the discount a couple of days after I picked up my 3.0. My dealer insisted I had gotten a great price and said the discount was meant to offset some of their advertising costs. Probably also depends on how much off of MSRP you already negotiated. The story might be different if you haven't yet handed over the big check. Doesn't hurt to try.
  • jeff33jeff33 Member Posts: 22
    I have also ordered the factory installed Sirius Radio option. Anyone have this? my understanding is that this $595 option included 12 months of subscription plus a bonus two months. Sound right? Rumor is that BMW was having trouble supplying this option.
  • lakshmanlakshman Member Posts: 47
    In which brochure did you see that the steering wheel controls are standard? If I can find I will talk to the dealer or BMW customer service.
     
    Dealer did not say anything about it. I had assumed it is going to be since my friend got it in 325i without prem. package.
  • tucker74tucker74 Member Posts: 12
    I'm referring to the brochure entitled "The all-new 2004 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle" with the mystic blue 3.0 on the cover. It should be the standard brochure that all the dealers hand out.

    Toward the back is a table that spans several pages detailing the standard featuers and options available on the 2.5 and 3.0. Under 'Interior seating and trim' it indicates the multi-function wheel is standard on the 2.5 and 3-spoke multi function wheel w/ cruise control standard on the 3.0. It does, however, indicate that the 3-spoke is optional for the 2.5 and comes with the Premium Package. Hope that helps.
Sign In or Register to comment.

Helpful Tools

Most popular vehicles