curate2008 BMW X3
Compact luxury crossover SUV · First generation (E83) (2004–2010)
About the X3
The BMW X3 is a five-seat compact luxury crossover SUV that slots between the X1 and X5 in BMW's lineup. It was one of the earliest entries in the premium compact SUV segment, arriving in the US for the 2004 model year, and has run continuously through four generations since. Since 2011 it has been built at BMW's plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and it competes with the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Volvo XC60.
The X3 has a long-standing reputation for car-like handling and strong engines relative to segment norms, paired with a functional, driver-focused cabin. It appeals to shoppers who want a premium badge and engaging driving dynamics in a practical two-row package — small families, commuters, and buyers stepping up from a sport sedan. The 2004-2026 model-year span offers a wide range of used and new options, from affordable early examples to plug-in hybrid and high-performance M variants.
The 2008 model: The original X3 shared much of its engineering with the E46 3 Series and was assembled by Magna Steyr in Austria. All US versions came with a naturally aspirated inline-6 — initially 2.5i and 3.0i models — and standard all-wheel drive, with both manual and automatic transmissions offered. A 2007 refresh updated the styling and interior and brought the 260-hp 3.0si, later renamed xDrive30i.
- Five-seat, two-row compact luxury crossover SUV
- All-wheel drive (xDrive) standard on most US model years; rear-wheel-drive sDrive versions offered in some years of the second and third generations
- Powertrains across its US run include inline-6 and turbo-4 gas engines, a diesel (xDrive28d, 2015-2017), a plug-in hybrid (xDrive30e), and high-performance M40i, M50, and X3 M variants
- Built at BMW's Spartanburg, South Carolina plant since the 2011 model year
- Known for sporty handling and strong engines relative to compact luxury SUV segment norms
Available trims
Where to find one
No 2008 listings right now — these zip codes have BMW X3 cars from other model years.
Other BMW X3 model years
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