2004 BMW X3 review from North America

Cup holder in dash stuck.

Rear ash tray popped out.

Fuel sending unit went bad.

Replaced two tires after "bumping" curbs.

1. It's a small SUV. Lots of headroom, but the rear seats are cramped and the "trunk" area behind the seats is fairly small. Rear seats will fold down to expand area, but you have to remove the headrests if your seat setting is for a tall guy like me.

2. The leather seats are incredibly uncomfortable. Didn't think about it when I bought it, but after 3 years it's one of the disappointments. It's hard and "pebbly" and on the door arm rests actually uncomfortable. Very Teutonic comfort wise. The newer models have gone to regular leather.

3. This car can move and handle. There's no doubt about it. A hundred miles an hour up a long stretch on the turnpike without a hiccup. I use the manual shift option around town because in auto or sport options the car drags.

4. The 'no maintenance' option is really nice. You don't pay anything for standard maintenance, including oil changes, brakes, wipers, etc. I actually won't hit the 50,000 mile mark in the four years of the warranty. I expect regular service after the warranty is very expensive.

5. Well-made car. Odd problem with the instrument panel fuel gauge, but no other hiccups. Radio controls are confusing. Setting the clock is a major deal.

6. Very expensive for what you get. I've done my new BMW and SUV thing and will probably drop down to a used Acura 3.5RL, which I think for the price is the hands-down winner in this class. (The 3.5 RL, not the newer spaceship RL.