Description: Luxury Sport Utility Vehicle
Base MSRP Range: $30,300-$36,300
Invoice Price Range: $27,735-$33,195

Just as BMW's mid-size 5-Series and compact-class 3-Series sedans compare in step-down size, so too does the size vary from mid-size to compact with X5-Series and X3-Series sport activity vehicles. X3 is the new model, arriving late in BMW's 2004 season and looking somewhat like a high-hiked 3-Series sports wagon after six months of pumping iron at the gym.

Expect lively traction action due to the use of BMW's new xDrive AWD system. Adjustable and totally variable, the xDrive device can send engine power to whichever axle, front or rear, has the best traction bite. It works in conjunction with BMW's DSC stability controller to keep on tracking on pavement.

Off pavement, X3 adds another sophisticated device called Hill Descent Control (HDC) to keep wheels firmly planted on a steep slope. The first engine in X3 is predicted to come from 3-Series sedans with a 3.0-liter straight-six.