Comparing the BMW X3 3.0si to the Lexus RX 350

by Karen Irvine

Comparison shopping is a smart approach when buying an SUV, albeit when it comes to comparing the popular BMW X3 SAV to the Lexus RX 350 AWD, SUV just listen to the experts.

First, consider that BMW distinguishes its X3 as a SAV, or Sports Activity Vehicle from the catchall SUV, or Sports Utility Vehicle. The X3 is not about utility or off-roading, it’s about adding a healthy dose of cargo capacity and any-road, any-weather prowess to The Ultimate Driving Machine®. The BMW SAV offers the perfect size, a sporty ride, advanced safety features and luxurious appointments and driving fun.

Then there’s the bottom line: despite its sportier design and higher level of standard equipment, the X3 3.0si at Circle BMW starts with a $820 base price advantage and a higher trim level. Add to this that the X3 3.0si offers many standard features: • Genuine wood trim • Panoramic moon roof, roof rails, rain sensing wipers • And driver’s seat memory On the Lexus RX, you guessed it, it’s optional.

Finally, a consumer is smart to pay attention to the tough automotive critics from reliable sources like Automobile, Car and Driver and Motor Trend who also compared the BMW X3 and the Lexus RX 350. Basically, what they found was if you want your father’s SUV, buy a Lexus. Test after test they found a lot of plush accommodations and less driving response compared to the BMW SAV.

As New Jersey drivers we need a reliable SAV with quick response and safety features to handle those NJ Turnpike traffic advisories, and a comfortable ride while snaking through those lines to our favorite concerts at the PNC Arts Center.

The experts say: “Suffice to say, the [RX 350] is too dedicated to the plush-riding Lexus ideal-even when rolling on its optional eighteen-inch wheels-to mount a serious challenge to [BMW]. Likewise, the steering is fine for straight ahead, but there’s no buildup of effort as you turn the wheel.” Automobile, March 2003

For those drivers who will not forsake the driving experience, the BMW X3 3.0si far exceeds the Lexus RX 350. If you are also in the market for a used BMW X3, check out our large selection of BMW used cars.   Highlighted Car of The Month 2007 BMW X5 - 4.8i SAV 3rd Row Rear Seat BMW Assist™ with Bluetooth®Wireless Technology BMW Ultimate Service™ xDrive, all-wheel-drive system To review the option packages for the 2007 X5, click on the model below: 8 Cylinder Model 4.8i SAV6 Cylinder Model 3.0i SAV

BMW Concept CS

Circle BMW was invited to the New York Car Show for the dealer preview event and we were one of the first New Jersey dealers to see the new BMW Concept CS.

WOW. That's all we can say. This car was the hit of the show and that is not because we were prejudiced. This car is amazing. This future design should be in production by 2010 and is being billed as BMW's Grand Tourismo car.

To take a look at the BMW Concept CS photos from the New York Auto Show, click on the photo above. We have over 18 photos of the Concept CS to show you.  View photos