BMW does SUV fine & finer

The SUV category is a much-maligned segment of the auto industry these days. But there are still nice products out there for those in the market for such a vehicle.

Two pretty good ones come from BMW. The German automaker is best known for its performance sedans and coupes, but ever since getting into the SUV business a few years ago, it has proven to be skilled in that area as well.

We recently got to take a few spins in the X3 and X5. The X3 is the smaller, more crossover-like entry, the X5 its larger sibling.

X3: Versatile and sporty

BMW calls the X3 an SAV (sports activity vehicle). It is pretty sporty, and you could probably perform a number of activities in it, as long as going off road isn’t one of them. The vehicle has the X-Drive all-wheel-drive system but no low range and its ground clearance isn’t very high.

The 3.0si, the only trim level offered, has a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that makes 260 horsepower and 225 pounds-feet of torque.

The X3 moves fairly nimbly by SUV standards, even if it isn’t quite as light on its feet as the 3-Series sedan with which it shares a platform.

Its steering isn’t quite as responsive as you might expect, either.

From a design standpoint, it has an athletic look that has become a common trait in the crossover segment.

Inside, it has a sort of muted luxury that fits well with the overall character of the vehicle.

The X3 was priced at $48,125.

X5: Family vehicle offers refined ride

Besides being roomier than its X3 sibling, the X5 offers a 4.8-liter V-8 engine in addition to the same 3.0-liter six-banger found in the smaller vehicle.

It also has the X-Drive awd system but is much more suited for off-road duty should the need arise.

There are two trim levels for the X5: the 3.0si and the 4.8i, which correspond to the engine choices mentioned above.

The X5’s ride seems a bit more refined than that of its smaller sibling, and its steering gives you a little more feedback.

This is a terrific family vehicle with nice touches such as the panoramic moonroof that extends to the rear seat.

Gas mileage for the six-cylinder is 17 miles per gallon city and 24 highway, according to EPA estimates.

Its sticker price was $58,275.