Overview

What's New for 2012:
- No significant changes for 2012

Exterior Features
The BMW X3 is a small, sporty crossover available in two trim levels: the xDrive28i and the xDrive35i. The base model's exterior includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers, automatic headlights, and fog lights. The xDrive35i upgrades to 18-inch wheels, adaptive Xenon headlights, and a panoramic sunroof.

Interior Features
The X3 xDrive28i's standard interior includes leatherette upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate control, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 12-speaker sound system. The xDrive35i adds wood accents. With rear seats folded down, cargo capacity is 63.3 cubic feet.

Optional Features
The Premium package of options for the xDrive28i includes a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, upgraded seating and lighting, and more storage equipment. On the xDrive35i, the Premium package adds keyless entry and ignition, rear-window sunshades, and a power tailgate. Both the Sport Activity and M Sport packages add larger wheels--18 inches on the xDrive28i and 19 inches on the xDrive35i--roof rails, extra styling touches, sport front seats, transmission paddle shifters, and a sport mode. The Dynamic Handling package includes adaptive suspension dampers and other performance features. Two Cold Weather packages (one building on the other) include heated front and rear seats, as well as a heated steering wheel. The Convenience package adds many of the xDrive35i's features to the xDrive28i. The Technology package includes safety features and a navigation system.

Under the Hood
The standard engine in the 2012 BMW X3 xDrive28i is a 3.0-liter in;   X3 xDrive28i: 19/25/21 mpg (city/highway/combined)
- X3 xDrive35i: 19/26/21 mpg

Safety
Safety features on the 2012 BMW X3 include anti-lock disc brakes, automatic brake drying, hill-descent control, front-seat side air bags, and side curtain air bags. Other features are optional with the Technology package, including a rearview camera and emergency communications.

To date, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not tested the 2012 BMW X3. In safety tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the BMW X3 received a "Good" rating--the Institute's highest--in all tests.