Bmw x3

[stevemcs]

So after 9 months I’ve started to look at replacing the Superb, I want to like it but I feel like someone is sticking a knife in my back/side after being in it for an hour and it seems to be getting worse.

Originally I was looking at V60/90’s and F31 330d’s but the Skoda came up and I bought it.

Now the Autotrader search list is getting longer and attention is being turned to X3’s for the budget it’s either the older F25 but 30/35d or a slightly newer G01 but as a 2.0d. Boot space is important as is towing weight which is why I went with the Skoda.

Who’s owned and lived with either version of the x3 ? Did you like it - or should I just go for a more comfortable Volvo.

[ric p]

Have a 2013 F25 X3 3.0 d M Sport for the last few years as the family hack. Was the BMW Cardiff demonstrator so fully loaded. Now up to 140k miles. Been faultless really apart from service items but did have a gearbox service at 90k despite sealed for life. Returns just over 40mpg. V comfortable and quick enough.

Only observations are pre ‘14 are euro5 not 6, not an issue for us in Somerset. Also no DAB but this came in ‘14/15. However big one for me was the sports suspension. Far too firm especially with optional M Sport asymmetric wheels and run flats.

Tellingly the demonstrator was full M spec but with sports suspension delete. I ebayed the option wheels and bought the standard M wheels and run it on non runflats. Made a massive difference in comfort, it is not a sports car. If comfort is important, look for one without the sports suspension.

Overall a great vehicle, fast, comfortable and not too big. Competent but a bit dull compared with my other stuff. But that is unfair as it is the family and dog wagon. Not a toy.