Buying Advice X3 xDrive 28d

[HiccaBurp]

I'm seriously considering the 2015/16 X3 xDrive 28d. Wanted to hear you thoughts on this vehicle and what should I look for? Any known issues? How is the longevity of the engine? Maintenance?

I am also going go test drive a 2014 328d xDrive Wagon today. I just think it'll be smaller?? Especially back seats and I have 3 kids.

I drive 20k miles a year. With the ex and kids(3 of them, 9, 10 & 12) moving to CO(we live in IL), I'll probably be doing a few road trips a year and my yearly mileage will probably get closer to 25k. I'm drawn to the 35 mpg people are averaging. Gas prices are low now, but as always, it goes up and down.

I test drove one, it was nice. The power delivery was good. The standard seats were not great tho. I need to find one with the optional sport seats(i think that is what it's called).

Where can I find information on all the options offered for that model/year?

I've found a couple of X3 28d's with the M package, is it worth it? Looks nice, but the price goes up and only a few used one for sale across the country

Thanks for any help!
Alex

[my1stE30]

.... BMW's are great cars ... but I would never buy one for the gas mileage ... there are many other brands out there that will give better fuel economy ... but will not necessarily give you the same joy as driving a BMW... good luck on finding that new ride

[z3forlife]

Three kids in the back seat of a x3 might be a little tight. Especially for a long ride.

[HiccaBurp]

.... BMW's are great cars ... but I would never buy one for the gas mileage ... there are many other brands out there that will give better fuel economy ... but will not necessarily give you the same joy as driving a BMW... good luck on finding that new ride

I'm not buying just for fuel mileage.. it's a combination of driving dynamics, looks, interior and mpgs. I drove the X3 gas version, it's ok but personally liked the way the diesel drove better. The 10 mpgs better avg is a bonus.

Any suggestions?

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Three kids in the back seat of a x3 might be a little tight. Especially for a long ride.

My sons sits in the front seat, the girls in the back. No real issue.

Btw, I test drove a 2014 328d xDrive and was VERY impressed. Love the power delivery and was averaging 41-42 on our extended test drive. That includes beating on it a few times. Kids didn't seem to mind, tho the oldest did like the X5 the best