The BMW X3 is a very fine tow car, but every driver preferred the 5-Series Touring. At a steady 60mph the X3 was stable, but it felt less comfortable when pushed up to 70mph. Crosswinds that the 5 Touring shrugged off had a more noticeable effect when we towed with the X3.
In the emergency lane-change test the BMW stayed on course, and the hill start caused no problems going forwards or in reverse. Unhitch the van an the X3 comes alive, with strong performance and agile handling.
There’s plenty of space inside for passengers and luggage. Only one item from our typical load wouldn’t squeeze in. The BMW earned more points with our practicality judges for its trailer stability program.