A CLOSER LOOK: 2021 BMW X3 XDRIVE30I

SAFETY FIRST

The X3’s Driving Assistant Professional system enhances overall safety with blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning and forward-collision warning. “BMW is known for its safety features, and you really understand why once you drive one. I always feel completely at ease when I’m behind the wheel,” said Greco. “I have had to drive it during some major downpours, and it handled the road really well. The rain-sensing wipers is a great feature and prevent you from having to adjust the speed of the wipers constantly during a storm.”

SMOOTH DRIVING

The vehicle’s TwinPower Turbo engine offers a punchy response, even at low revs, and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes power to the front and rear wheels for added traction. Sport steering makes driving more dynamic. “The X3 hugs the road and drives smoother than any vehicle I’ve driven. You can accelerate quickly, and it doesn’t have the requisite little jump those smaller engines have,” said Greco. “It’s a dangerous feature for someone with a bit of a lead foot like me.”

UNIQUE FEATURES

The 2021 model comes with more standard features than previous generations, including a navigation system, power liftgate and SensaTech synthetic leather upholstery. As Greco puts it: “There is nothing ‘basic’ about this vehicle.” But for her, the panoramic sun/moon roof was a must-have option. The interior is also roomy for a smaller SUV (and offers more room than the X1 and X2 models). “While headspace and legroom are never an issue for someone as vertically challenged as I am,” she said, “it has ample space for my husband and growing teen.”