Thinking of buying X3 35i

E92LNGCGY · 12-06-2011, 05:36 PM

What are general opinions on the X3 35i? I'm ready to pull the trigger but what are the "bad" about the X3? How would you compare it to X5 as far as ride/handling/comfort? I'm not comparing size or anything else.

I'm planning to get a fully loaded one with AW on Red Brown leather. Is HUD a must have? Does anyone have pictures of real life HUD in action?

Thanks.

Nahoa · 12-06-2011, 05:41 PM

One comfort point I noted was that it was, for me, a lot harder to get into the back seat of an X5 than an X3. Surprised me. Door or seat geometry seems different. Front was also easier on the X3 just due to the height, but not as significant of a difference. Not sure if that's a size or comfort issue!

fiddy yen · 12-06-2011, 06:33 PM

The rear X3 will be harder to get into due to the rear wheel hump being larger and more forward than the X5. Obviously the X5 is larger so more seat room. Also the X5 has way more comfortable seats than the X3. Basically you are comparing the 5 series to the 3 series... 3 is smaller whereas the 5 is way more comfortable and more options.

I ordered the exact same combo, Msport AW with Red/Brown. I think it will be a stellar combo, but to some people too much. As for HUD, I've used it... its pretty awesome... but it something that I feel is over kill. I can't justify with spending the amount it is... society has adapted well without it lol

GenX3 · 12-07-2011, 05:33 PM

I think price was a major factor for me. I could get a fully loaded X3 35i, or a fully standard X5... Next came fuel economy. Although the X5 has a diesel that does pretty well, the options for that particular model where limited. I have the HUD and like it. It's practical... except for daytime running with polarized lenses... that's a no-go.

The nav system was the best I'd seen out there and the MSport trim added some nice looking upgrades (love the chubby steering wheel).

If you have an iPhone, get the BMW apps and adapter. Load it up with everything... should come in at about $55-58K depending...

Nahoa · 12-07-2011, 08:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fiddy yen

The rear X3 will be harder to get into due to the rear wheel hump being larger and more forward than the X5. Obviously the X5 is larger so more seat room. Also the X5 has way more comfortable seats than the X3. Basically you are comparing the 5 series to the 3 series... 3 is smaller whereas the 5 is way more comfortable and more options.

I ordered the exact same combo, Msport AW with Red/Brown. I think it will be a stellar combo, but to some people too much. As for HUD, I've used it... its pretty awesome... but it something that I feel is over kill. I can't justify with spending the amount it is... society has adapted well without it lol

No, I compared them side by side and it was easier for me to get into the back set of the X3; more difficult for the X5.

E92LNGCGY · 12-08-2011, 01:09 PM

Thanks for all your feedback. Unfortunately for us Canadians a fully loaded X3 35i is about 70k. I am heading to the dealer this weekend because they said there's a year end sale. Let's see what kind of deal I can get.

Am I correct to assume that since the platform on the X3 is newer it should be a better vehicle as far as NVH?

paul386 · 12-08-2011, 01:27 PM

The X3 is going to be easier and lighter to maneuver than the X5. It is really a doll to steer at low speed because of the progressive electronic assisted rack. One of the things I would like to point out about the X3 over the X5 is that it is an F class chassis unlike the X5 which is still an E class chassis. You get the much higher resolution / largest nav screen and a lot of cool new console stuff and driver instrument cluster with the digital screen.

I have the HUD and love it. It works phenomenally with the nav. However, it is pricey and is by no means a must have...

RichardBR · 12-08-2011, 02:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by E92LNGCGY

Thanks for all your feedback. Unfortunately for us Canadians a fully loaded X3 35i is about 70k. I am heading to the dealer this weekend because they said there's a year end sale. Let's see what kind of deal I can get.

I don't think you should be jealous with the US pricing. 70K is still VERY cheap compared to some European contries like Norway and Denmark. The 35i will fully loaded be 226K in Dollars. That's triple your price.

Cheer up and sign the order and be glad you don't have to buy a car in Norway.

colson79 · 12-08-2011, 02:10 PM

I drove an X3 with the HUD and it was neat but not worth the cost to me. Another thing that turn me off on the HUD was it requires a special windshield that cost around $1,200 and during the Wisconsin winters the potential for getting a chipped windshield is high. I got most of the other options on my 35i and I love it.

E92LNGCGY · 12-08-2011, 02:33 PM

Colson,

You are right that special windshield is a turn off and we get as much snow as you in WI. I don't want to fork out $1500 (that's the cost up here) for a windshield but I'm still going to try out the HUD during the test drive.

E92LNGCGY · 12-08-2011, 02:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RichardBR

I don't think you should be jealous with the US pricing. 70K is still VERY cheap compared to some European contries like Norway and Denmark. The 35i will fully loaded be 226K in Dollars. That's triple your price.

Cheer up and sign the order and be glad you don't have to buy a car in Norway.

I'm glad I am not living in EU. You guys have some of the most expensive prices, not to mention fuel price.

E92LNGCGY · 12-08-2011, 02:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by paul386

The X3 is going to be easier and lighter to maneuver than the X5. It is really a doll to steer at low speed because of the progressive electronic assisted rack. One of the things I would like to point out about the X3 over the X5 is that it is an F class chassis unlike the X5 which is still an E class chassis. You get the much higher resolution / largest nav screen and a lot of cool new console stuff and driver instrument cluster with the digital screen.

I have the HUD and love it. It works phenomenally with the nav. However, it is pricey and is by no means a must have...

See that's another reason why I'm leaning toward the X3 because of the platform. The X5 will be overhauled here in the next couple years so I'd be getting old tech compared to the X3. I also think that the X3 is tighter and has better quality materials than X5. I'll have to compare them this weekend.

paul386 · 12-08-2011, 03:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RichardBR

I don't think you should be jealous with the US pricing. 70K is still VERY cheap compared to some European contries like Norway and Denmark. The 35i will fully loaded be 226K in Dollars. That's triple your price.

Cheer up and sign the order and be glad you don't have to buy a car in Norway.

I believe that BMW charges the same for the car around the world. These extra costs must be in local taxes and fees?

Chalky White · 12-08-2011, 03:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RichardBR

I don't think you should be jealous with the US pricing. 70K is still VERY cheap compared to some European contries like Norway and Denmark. The 35i will fully loaded be 226K in Dollars. That's triple your price.

Cheer up and sign the order and be glad you don't have to buy a car in Norway.

$226,000 U.S. Dollars????

RichardBR · 12-08-2011, 03:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hamajicky

$226,000 U.S. Dollars????

Yes I'm afraid so. With the 35i about 55% is government taxes regarding emissions and the petrol usage. On top of that you have 25% VAT.

The larger the engine you want the more taxes you'll get.

E92LNGCGY · 12-08-2011, 03:32 PM

The BMW apps option does it only work for iphone? Does it work for Android? Is there any other accessory required?

Does the navi actually read out the emails/text messages? What kind of functions does it perform? This is a big thing for me the whole connected drive thing.

fiddy yen · 12-08-2011, 04:28 PM

BMW Apps is required to run Facebook, Twitter, Internet radio and see your iphone Calendar. It does not run Android as of yet in Canada, but it will come soon. Text messages/ emails will only work on newer Blackberry models and Android phones... NOT iphones

Where are you buying your X3?

E92LNGCGY · 12-08-2011, 05:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fiddy yen

BMW Apps is required to run Facebook, Twitter, Internet radio and see your iphone Calendar. It does not run Android as of yet in Canada, but it will come soon. Text messages/ emails will only work on newer Blackberry models and Android phones... NOT iphones

Where are you buying your X3?

I have an Android phone (Nexus S to be exact) so it will not integrate fully with the app option? I assume I can get the system updated to the newest version when it's out. Is it free?

I'm buying in Calgary Canada.

Chalky White · 12-08-2011, 05:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RichardBR

Yes I'm afraid so. With the 35i about 55% is government taxes regarding emissions and the petrol usage. On top of that you have 25% VAT.

The larger the engine you want the more taxes you'll get.

That is crazy. And awesome at the same time.

DEVM · 12-08-2011, 05:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RichardBR

Yes I'm afraid so. With the 35i about 55% is government taxes regarding emissions and the petrol usage. On top of that you have 25% VAT.

The larger the engine you want the more taxes you'll get.

Insane prices. Total rip off by your government. Works the same in Holland. Hope you get your income equally high.
Glad i live in Switzerland today. Nett price for the car is relatively high over here (also income), but very low on taxes

XB101 · 12-08-2011, 10:04 PM

I heard for a limited time it's 0.9 financing on ALL 2011 BMW's in Canada. Heard on a Calgary Station. That would be very enticing.

jk · 12-08-2011, 10:15 PM

i ordered an x3 35i a week and a half ago. fwiw, i looked at the hud on an x5m they had on the lot and immediately decided that seeing those images hanging out there in space between me and the surrounding real world would drive me nuts. i want to look out the windshield and see the road and the view.

12-06-2011, 05:36 PM	#1
E92LNGCGY Lieutenant Colonel 434 Rep 1,732 Posts Drives: F97/Q5/982 GT4 Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Canada iTrader: (0)	Thinking of buying X3 35i What are general opinions on the X3 35i? I'm ready to pull the trigger but what are the "bad" about the X3? How would you compare it to X5 as far as ride/handling/comfort? I'm not comparing size or anything else. I'm planning to get a fully loaded one with AW on Red Brown leather. Is HUD a must have? Does anyone have pictures of real life HUD in action? Thanks.
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12-06-2011, 05:41 PM	#2
Nahoa Lieutenant Colonel 45 Rep 1,876 Posts Drives: F25 35i Mineral Silver/Black Join Date: May 2008 Location: Virginia iTrader: (0)	One comfort point I noted was that it was, for me, a lot harder to get into the back seat of an X5 than an X3. Surprised me. Door or seat geometry seems different. Front was also easier on the X3 just due to the height, but not as significant of a difference. Not sure if that's a size or comfort issue! __________________
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12-06-2011, 06:33 PM	#3
fiddy yen First Lieutenant 25 Rep 329 Posts Drives: 2012 X3 35i Msport Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Skeetsckatchewan iTrader: (0)	The rear X3 will be harder to get into due to the rear wheel hump being larger and more forward than the X5. Obviously the X5 is larger so more seat room. Also the X5 has way more comfortable seats than the X3. Basically you are comparing the 5 series to the 3 series... 3 is smaller whereas the 5 is way more comfortable and more options. I ordered the exact same combo, Msport AW with Red/Brown. I think it will be a stellar combo, but to some people too much. As for HUD, I've used it... its pretty awesome... but it something that I feel is over kill. I can't justify with spending the amount it is... society has adapted well without it lol __________________ 2008 335i 6MT - Dinan tuned stge 2 1986 325es - SOLD 2012 BMW X3 35i AW on RB Msport - JB3 @ 4.0PSi over stock, 20x9F and 20x10.5R Stance SC-5ive, H&R lowering springs. - SOLD 2006 BMW 330i - //M rep kit with custom exhaust, H&R springs, 19" VMR - SOLD
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12-07-2011, 05:33 PM	#4
GenX3 Private First Class 27 Rep 159 Posts Drives: 2012 X3 35i Join Date: Sep 2011 Location: Colo Spgs iTrader: (0)	Price I think price was a major factor for me. I could get a fully loaded X3 35i, or a fully standard X5... Next came fuel economy. Although the X5 has a diesel that does pretty well, the options for that particular model where limited. I have the HUD and like it. It's practical... except for daytime running with polarized lenses... that's a no-go. The nav system was the best I'd seen out there and the MSport trim added some nice looking upgrades (love the chubby steering wheel). If you have an iPhone, get the BMW apps and adapter. Load it up with everything... should come in at about $55-58K depending... __________________ 2012 X3 35i \| Space Gray \| Sand Beige \| Sienna Packages \| M-Sport \| Cold I & II \| Tech \| Premium \| Sound \| BMW Apps, HUD, Net
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12-08-2011, 01:09 PM	#6
E92LNGCGY Lieutenant Colonel 434 Rep 1,732 Posts Drives: F97/Q5/982 GT4 Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Canada iTrader: (0)	Thanks for all your feedback. Unfortunately for us Canadians a fully loaded X3 35i is about 70k. I am heading to the dealer this weekend because they said there's a year end sale. Let's see what kind of deal I can get. Am I correct to assume that since the platform on the X3 is newer it should be a better vehicle as far as NVH?
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12-08-2011, 01:27 PM	#7
paul386 Second Lieutenant 18 Rep 274 Posts Drives: 2011 X3 35i Jet Black Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Florida iTrader: (0)	The X3 is going to be easier and lighter to maneuver than the X5. It is really a doll to steer at low speed because of the progressive electronic assisted rack. One of the things I would like to point out about the X3 over the X5 is that it is an F class chassis unlike the X5 which is still an E class chassis. You get the much higher resolution / largest nav screen and a lot of cool new console stuff and driver instrument cluster with the digital screen. I have the HUD and love it. It works phenomenally with the nav. However, it is pricey and is by no means a must have...
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12-08-2011, 02:10 PM	#9
colson79 Second Lieutenant 7 Rep 221 Posts Drives: 2012 X3 35i DSB Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Wisconsin iTrader: (0)	I drove an X3 with the HUD and it was neat but not worth the cost to me. Another thing that turn me off on the HUD was it requires a special windshield that cost around $1,200 and during the Wisconsin winters the potential for getting a chipped windshield is high. I got most of the other options on my 35i and I love it. __________________ 2012 X3 35i \| Deep Sea Blue \| Oyster \| Packages \| Sports \| Cold Weather \| Cold Weather 2 \| Premium \| Technology \| Premium Sound
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12-08-2011, 02:33 PM	#10
E92LNGCGY Lieutenant Colonel 434 Rep 1,732 Posts Drives: F97/Q5/982 GT4 Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Canada iTrader: (0)	Colson, You are right that special windshield is a turn off and we get as much snow as you in WI. I don't want to fork out $1500 (that's the cost up here) for a windshield but I'm still going to try out the HUD during the test drive.
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12-08-2011, 03:32 PM	#16
E92LNGCGY Lieutenant Colonel 434 Rep 1,732 Posts Drives: F97/Q5/982 GT4 Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Canada iTrader: (0)	The BMW apps option does it only work for iphone? Does it work for Android? Is there any other accessory required? Does the navi actually read out the emails/text messages? What kind of functions does it perform? This is a big thing for me the whole connected drive thing.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-08-2011, 04:28 PM	#17
fiddy yen First Lieutenant 25 Rep 329 Posts Drives: 2012 X3 35i Msport Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Skeetsckatchewan iTrader: (0)	BMW Apps is required to run Facebook, Twitter, Internet radio and see your iphone Calendar. It does not run Android as of yet in Canada, but it will come soon. Text messages/ emails will only work on newer Blackberry models and Android phones... NOT iphones Where are you buying your X3? __________________ 2008 335i 6MT - Dinan tuned stge 2 1986 325es - SOLD 2012 BMW X3 35i AW on RB Msport - JB3 @ 4.0PSi over stock, 20x9F and 20x10.5R Stance SC-5ive, H&R lowering springs. - SOLD 2006 BMW 330i - //M rep kit with custom exhaust, H&R springs, 19" VMR - SOLD
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12-08-2011, 10:04 PM	#21
XB101 Second Lieutenant 31 Rep 225 Posts Drives: 2011 TiAg X3 35i Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Western Canada iTrader: (0)	I heard for a limited time it's 0.9 financing on ALL 2011 BMW's in Canada. Heard on a Calgary Station. That would be very enticing.
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12-08-2011, 10:15 PM	#22
jk Private First Class 2 Rep 114 Posts Drives: '12 x3 35i Join Date: Nov 2011 Location: United States iTrader: (0)	i ordered an x3 35i a week and a half ago. fwiw, i looked at the hud on an x5m they had on the lot and immediately decided that seeing those images hanging out there in space between me and the surrounding real world would drive me nuts. i want to look out the windshield and see the road and the view.
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