Watch CBS News

Drivetime..."Yo Vinnie. Waddya Driving This Week?" BMW X3

Drivetime logo 1

The question I am asked the most by people who know I test and critique cars for a living (besides can you get me a deal?) is Yo Vinnie, what are you driving this week? So something new...my first impressions of what I am driving this week. Short sweet and to the point. Some inside scoop on the cars I drive before the full review.

So I pull into my driveway with this week's Drivetime Road Test vehicle, The BMW X3 2.8 X Drive compact crossover and my neighbor comes running over to ask me how I like it. Like with most BMW's I drive I ask him, "What's not to like? It's beautifully designed, roomy, interior panels are top grade, it runs like a top, goes like a banshee and it's a deep sexy maroon color."

It's perfect! That's what's wrong says the neighbor. I want something not so perfect. I want a little feeling in my driving experience.

So my quest for this week will be to find something imperfect about the BMW X3. After 4 days and a few hundred miles so far it's all Ferris wheels and cotton candy on a 70 degree day, but believe me, I'm trying.

It handles about as like a sports car as can be and better than you would expect from a somewhat tall crossover, the turbo doesn't have much if any lag and the 2.8 litre engine gives you more out of less. The 8 speed transmission shifts on command or at its own will and there is a setting for every type of driving preference except "nitwit in the left lane."

So far it's been pretty fun to drive but don't worry. By the time I review the X3, I am sure I'll find SOMETHING to make my neighbor happy.

Yo Vinnie, whaddya driving this week?  Follow Drivetime on Twitter @dttweet and on Facebook at Facebook.com/DriveTimeRadioandTV

Follow Vinnie @nyvinnie

Get more reviews, news about cars and the people who drive them, interviews and tips on how to get more out of your driving experience all on Drivetime with Vinnie Richichi and Rob Pratte Saturday mornings 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. on NewsRadio 1020 KDKA. Also listen to Vinnie on The Vinnie and Cook Show Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sportsradio 93-7 The Fan.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.