We drove a $58,000 BMW X3 to see if it’s worth the price tag — here’s the verdict

So what’s the verdict?

Matthew DeBord/BI

Ben and I each drove the X3, and we agreed that the ride is too harsh regardless of which drive mode is selected, and that the seats could be more comfortable. We also agreed that the X3 is fun to drive.

That encapsulates BMW’s dilemma. All of its vehicles are supposed to be fun to drive. But in the SUV segments in particular, consumers aren’t necessarily invested in thrills. To be sure, the BMW brand overcomes that issue — sitting in a BMW is still sitting in a BMW, and thanks to those three letters and their reputation, owners will put up with a lot.

But I ultimately thought that maybe there was too much of a driving machine in the X3 30i’s DNA. Enthusiasts will probably want to step up to the X3 M40i, so why not soften the four-cylinder version?

Heresy! Yes, heresy. If you don’t want a BMW to drive like a BMW, get a Cadillac XT5 or an Audi Q5. Questioning the whole BMW premise is silly.

Agreed. But the X3 30i was still noticeably uncomfy at times. That was counterbalanced by the peppy acceleration and snappy handling, as well as the better-than-expected rear seat room and the cargo capacity.

This is also the best-looking X3 ever. The overall design really drew me in and made me want to drive the car, even if I knew my back would complain later.

In the end, I think BMW could tweak the seats and change my mind. And when I was blasting through the Lincoln Tunnel and preparing to zip in and out of Manhattan traffic, I warmed to the X3 BMW-y charms.

It’s a good SUV. It might not be worth almost $58,000. But there is a BMW premium, and it’s supposed to come through when you step on that gas. And in that respect, although the xDrive 30i isn’t easy to live with, it’s kind of a blast to drive.