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Comments
tponchak, if you think the Ford Escape comparison is ridiculous, what do you think of the comparisons made in the following posts:
#139: "personally, I actually think a CRV has better interior materials.
At this price range, BMW is competing with Acura (MDX), Lexus (RX330), Infiniti (FX35) and (to some extent) VW Toureg. Granted, the driving experience is very different but the interior on this vehicle is either at the bottom or second to the bottom of this list."
#150: "Interior is a disappointment in terms of grade not quality. (refers to the material grade). The most talkabout in this forum is the hard plastic which is true and is not very high grade. I compare the X3 with my MDX and the MDX is a winner hands down, soft, high grade materials. Even with my RAV4 interior, the plastic is as good if not better than the 43K+ X3."
Are we all ridiculous as you seem to believe? Aren't the RAV4 and CR-V in the same class as the Escape?
Regarding your request that I exit this forum, grow up kid, it's called a forum, not a fan club. This forum is all about voicing our respective opinions. If you don't agree with mine, feel free to say so (in fact it seems you only post here to respond to me), but it's immature to ask me to leave.
I'd ruled out the X5 because it was unnecessarily big for such a small amount of cargo space. Imagine my excitement when I read the X3, though smaller, had more cargo space!
My first impression on seeing the 3.0 X3 was, "Wow!" It was definitely sweet on the outside. A bit too much black plastic cladding, but since I was leaning towards a dark color, it would all blend in.
My next impression on seeing the interior with the metallic trim was, "Oh. Maybe the driving experience will be better."
Well, the handling was terrific. Can't think of any other SAV or SUV that came close, except for the FX, and the panoramic sunroof was awesome.
When we got back to the showroom, I started to nitpick and took a really close look at the interior. The fit and finish were fine, but when I started comparing the materials to some luxury cars I've owned and ridden in the past, the X3 fell short. I also found the ride to be harsh but I thought I could live with that if I could just get past my disappointment with the interior materials.
I waited a few days for the 3.0 with the wood trim to arrive before making my final decision. I have to say that I was again disappointed with the quality of the wood. It looked rather plastic. However, I kept remembering the exhilirating handling! Also, the dealer offered me a 1.5% discount, plus a $100 credit towards the purchase of accessories.
I agonized for a few more days and even passed up an opportunity to save an additional
thousand dollars off the vehicle I was originally going to buy, before I went in to look at the X3.
Finally, I came to my decision, after the deadline for the special pricing on the other vehicle came and went. On looks and safety, both the X3 and my other choice were dead even. On performance , the X3 was winning by a wide margin. The X3 also had a lead in towing ability because of the new anti sway trailering control. The X3 also came with some pre-paid maintenance. In the end, however, there wasn't enough to make up for where the X3 fell short, compared to my other choice in terms of luxury, ride quality, utility, value, and perhaps reliability.
I did like driving the X3 3.0, twice, but for my needs and tastes, I went to the Lexus dealer the next day and wrote out a check for my AWD RX 330. I have been enjoying it immensely.
Best wishes to those awaiting or contemplating buying the X3 3.0. If it fits your needs and tastes, get it. It is definitely a cool SAV and should be a success.
My brother-in-law just placed order for new X3 3.0. Due in Feb.
as for the x3 ride, i thought it was great but a lot of car mags and some reviewers on this board have stated that on rough roads the ride quality is not very good. i only test drove it for 15 minutes on smooth roads so i have no idea if these criticisms are correct. wondering if this roughness on less than smooth roads has to do with the xdrive. has anyone driven an x5 with xdrive recently? maybe a comparo of the x3 and x5 ride quality with xdrive could shed some light on this issue?
My brother-in-law just placed order for new X3 3.0. Due in Feb.
racetedtms, I'm waiting to test drive the 2.5 when it comes out but suspect the difference in performance may be too great. The sales reps I've talked to are telling me they are selling way more 2.5s than the 3.0s.
kd, This is a forum to discuss various viewpoints regarding the X3 for future, potential buyers. Not to ridicule and/or question anyone you don't agree with. I have been reading many of the posts here and do see a pattern to it very similar to my own experience (with the exception of 2-3 diehards that have a rebuttal for every post.) And yes, the "floating boat luxury cruiser" comment was uncalled for.
Saugatak, I drove both the X3 and X5 (both have the XDrive). The X5 certainly has a smoother ride than the X3. But the two cars were designed for different market segments. One as a luxury SAV and the other as a sporty SAV, hence stiffer (and harsher) ride. X5, to me, feels somewhere between the RX330 and the X3, not as agile and sporty as X3 but somewhat stiffer and better handling than the RX.
I do wish, however, to see an end to what seems like the endless "debate" about the interior plastics. I have read each and every post from the beginning, and, frankly, think there is a little misinformation and alot of unnecessary repetitiveness. The misinformation stems from comparing the X3 dash to that, say, of a Honda CR-V. I own a 1999 CR-V. The top 60% of the dash is "hard" plastic, with no give whatsoever. The bottom 40% is a bit squishy, which, I guess, most people consider to be "more expensive" or more "upscale". I have checked out each piece of the X3 dash on at least 3 separate occassions. There are no "hard plastic" areas. Both the top half and bottom half have a give to them. Whether those materials are "upscale" enough is obviously a matter of debate. A matter of personal opinion.
In my view, the materials match exactly those of the BMW Z4. That comment is based on comparing them side by side at the dealer. Althought the Z4 has had its share of criticism, its internal dash design and dash materials have been relatively uncontroverted. In my mind, if the Z4 dash is "good enough to be a true BMW", then the X3 can be held to a similar standard. If you want a higher standard, and pay for that kind of extra "quality", then, clearly, the original X5 remains available for consideration.
As one member of the forum, I think it would be a step forward if we all moved on to other aspects of this new model. But, if the debate continues, I wish it would be confined to individuals who have taken the time to visit a dealer and take personal stock of the materials used in the X3, X5, 325xi, etc.
Glenberk, any member is welcome to comment about any car on Town Hall. Personal experience is helpful though :-)
Steve, Host
Also, kd said his family owns an RX300, which is a very different animal than the RX330. So, he is actually knocking the RX300's ride, not the RX330's, which definitely does not feel like a boat of any kind.
I think kd was just stating his honest opinion, but honesty is best when tempered with some sensitivity. Otherwise, people will not want to state their opinions, for fear of ridicule. However, kd had kind words for Lexus quality and reliability. So, it's all good.
Doneby, best of luck with your decision. Keep us posted, and if I can be of any help, e mail.
Kd, since performance is your priority, the 3.0 X3 is the vehicle for you.
Buenas, buenas.
my car cost $41,000 and i'm paying $43 something because of the taxes and fees. if your x3's msrp is $39K, you should only be paying a little more than $41K. and that's without the discount..
I may be a BMW fanatic and a newbie as some might say but thats a ridiculous deal....
*8 way adjustable power front seats w/ memory seats and mirrors.
*3 spoke leather wrap multifuntion steering
*automatic climate control w/ air recirculation
*storage compartment package
*4 function onboard computer
*halogen foglights
*rain-sensing windshield wipers
*automatic headlight control
*cruise control
mileage
2.5 auto 18/24
3.0 auto 16/23
0-60 mph
2.5 man 8.6 sec
2.5 auto 9.3 sec
3.0 man 7.6 sec
3.0 auto 7.9 sec
also, i'd check to see whether or not there is an out in the contract. for example, if your agreement says they have to deliver by Feb 1, 04 and you don't get it by then, you can make a case that they have not fulfilled their obligations and get the money back.
ulep, i'm glad to see you are enjoying your car. i hope you have fun with it.
The thing has a very smooth and composed ride. Similar to an FX35 with 18" wheels. It was tight yes but not as tight on my FX with the sport suspension and 20" wheels. I told the dealer to call me when he got a sport package car to see what a difference it made in the ride.
The X3 had crisp turn in and little body lean did not get to push it hard and I have never driven a 3 seriess in comparison but would imagine it is similar.
The acceleration was average with the steptronic (I don't do manuals). better than say an RX330 about on par with an MDX but felt sluggish compared to my FX35. The engine seemed to rev a lot more to get sufficient momentum.
The interior as has been stated before is abysmal. very stark and just low grade looking. This has been labored on before so I will leave it at that.
I did like the sunroof. but the X3 is a small car sitting next to an 04 X5 it looks tiny. Regardless of what the specs say you "feel" like you have more room in the FX or X5 than the X3.
Overall an ok SUV if the 3.0 price was less maybe a contender to replace my FX in 2 years ( I would never buy a first year BMW). But it just doesn't have the performance or value that the FX offers IMO.
Funny thing though was that when I pulled up there was another FX parked there (FX45 Premium Black like mine) he must have just driven the x3 before me because I had to wait for it to come in and the other FX was gone when I came back. I am sure he was probably underwhelmed as his vehicle is almost 2 sec faster 0-60.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Please don't do that. You may mention the name of the dealership and the town but we do not allow contact information including the names of salespeople.
tidester, host
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Ultimately, it comes down to each individual's tastes and preferences, and I have to agree with kdshapiro and shap1. I love the performance and fun factor of the X3. On a daily basis, it's the most fun to drive.
Again, enjoy the Lexus. A very good car and very different from the X3.
I wanted one asap and didn't want to risk it, so I ordered the 3.0. Kind of a hard call without the ability to compare.
Did you sign anything? Is it different in NJ? Curious.
Take 'em all with a grain of salt, but you can tell when patterns start to emerge from real owners and tire kickers.
I love the ones with a glowing report when the profile shows a dealer email address! Some are so clueless...
Steve, Host
hahahaha
ksso
tidester, host
Steve, Host
tidester, host
Check out Any Questions for a Car Dealer? or Real-World Trade-In Values for some good examples.
Steve, Host
Why negotiate via internet? Me and my wife are both 25. my wife has to show a valid ID just to watch an R rated movie. So you know my dilema. We first went to JMK BMW with my in-laws because my wife wanted her parents to see the x3. unfortunately, when you see a group of minorities going inside a showroom and looking at a car. some people might think that these people are just nosing around and doesnt have the money to buy a $40k car. Nobody entertained us, so we just left(i'm not a really war freak, for me what goes around comes around). Then we went to Open Road BMW, yes they talked to us but never really took us seriosly. At that time I had enough. What I did is I emailed all the BMW dealerships in NJ and made them bid against each other. Some didn't want to go down below msrp, sum tried to bid but didn't really gave that much effort. the two contenders where Difeo and Open Road(which we went to). difeo ended up giving us the lowest price.
I hated the dealers but really loved the car. Now Difeo won't email me back with my inquiries about the aero kit. Oh well maybe 3 yrs from now when i buy my M3. I'd look older and maybe people will take me seriously.
As for Tponchak's question. It's madatory to give $1k as a deposit here at nj. you have to sign a paper that you cannot refund the money if you cancel the order.
And that's my sad story..HUHUHU ;-)
#108, 150, 153 and 163.
I own a 2001 MDX and like the supple ride, room with seven passenger seats and good acceleration. The 2001 model has 240hp and has pretty good power to pull this SUV. Because the car is quite big (76" wide), do not expect to maneuver like a sport sedan but is a great vehicle for the family, particularly with several kids. Interior panel, leather and built is very high quality and grade. Honda did a good job to put the instrumentation together and very easy to use. Three complaints are the wind noise,fan switch which you have to go through a full cycle to reduce one speed and the longevity of the OEM Goodyear tires (I replaced all four tires at about 36K miles with Michelin tires). I am not sure if Honda fixed these problems or not in the latest models. At any rate, here you go.
I looked at AWD cars and "small" SUVs from MB, Volvo, Audi, Infinity, Lexus...I either did not fit or would have had to settle for a "no frills" model to not get the moonroof. I currently drive a Honda Pilot with head room to spare. My dealer said the X3 has no provisions for being able to lower the seats. For those who wonder (...like Car&Driver) why someone who wants superb handling would buy an x3 instead of an 325xi, I'm a good example.
Driving: X3 wins hands down. The MDX handles very well for such an SUV, good feel for the road and an extremely wide turning radius (no problems at all parallel parking), but the greater weight of the MDX, its greater height and the fact it doesn't have 50-50 weight balance means that the MDX has body lean in turns (more lean the faster you go) whereas the X3 handles almost as well as a 3-series when turning.
In terms of acceleration, I thought my MDX (which has 260 HP) had better straight line acceleration than the X3 3.0 with 225 HP. They should be relatively equal because the MDX's extra HP should be offset by its weight. I think part of the problem may be because the X3 I test drove had been ridden hard by testers and had not been properly broken, but this is just speculation on my part.
Ride Quality: The ride quality of both cars is excellent. People I know and a lot of people on this board have said that the ride quality on X3 is compromised on less than smooth roads, but haven't tested it myself. I have driven my MDX on dirt roads, and while the MDX is not a true off-road vehicle, it handles your standard dirt road just fine. The MDX is not quite as stiff as the X3 so for passengers, the MDX ride quality would be preferable.
Interior: Well you probably know how I feel about the X3 interior.
The MDX has fake wood, but the plastics are the "squishy" kind and the instrument panel is nicely laid out, whereas the the X3 doesn't have the "squishy" plastic but a harder plastic which has very, very little give if pushed. I don't know what term to use with this kind of plastic. I've called it "hard" which some people have interpreted to mean the kind of plastic which has a hollow knock when hit. That being said, the instrument panel layout on the X3 is OK, but I thought the speedometer and other gauges were very small, making it difficult to see through the steering wheel.
The interior space layout in both the MDX and the X3 is good, but the MDX is much larger. Don't know how much space you need, but if you need a 3rd row bench or plan to pack it with a lot of stuff, the MDX beats the X3.
Amenities: The MDX comes standard with a lot of amenities that are expensive options on the X3. Also if you want dual climate zone control, the X3 doesn't have it.
Wind Noise: I think Acura, with the 2003 and especially with the 2004 model, have thicker glass and sound deadening materials to kill the wind noise. My MDX is quieter than the X3, but there's certainly nothing wrong with the amount of noise the X3 makes, perfectly acceptable.
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you, but I don't have a firm price yet on the labor because it hasn't ever been done yet. I'll know more in February. It's probably going to be close to $1500 just to paint and install it.
The price of the X3 aerokit by itself is $2595 (before it's painted and installed), so you're looking at closer to $4000 for everything.
It includes running boards, fog lights, a spoiler and fender flares.
I have a summary of it if you want me to fax it to you.
Regards,
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