The 5-speed automatic transmission changed gears with expected BMW precision and smooth operation overall, whether in full automatic mode or shifting via its Steptronic sequential manual mode. While I would have preferred steering wheel buttons to initiate shifts, like the flagship 7-Series, I can appreciate that the majority of buyers would find no use for such performance-oriented add-ons. To be totally honest, if I were in the market I would most likely opt for the standard 6-speed manual. While no such animal was available for testing, I have yet to be let down by any of BMW's do-it-yourself-gearboxes, giving me no cause for concern.

BMW organized a light off-road segment up in the Spanish hills, just to give us an idea of what the X3 is capable of. (Photo: BMW AG)

BMW organized a light off-road segment up in the Spanish hills, just to give us an idea of what the X3 is capable of when loose gravel, deep water and slippery mud gets under the tires. The first leg of the short adventure featured a steep grade, an opportunity to engage Hill Decent Control (HDC). The electronic system emulates a 4x4's low gear ratio, effectually holding the SUV back to a lowest speed of 8 km/h to a highest of 25 km/h while negotiating challenging angles. At the bottom of the hill I took the little Bimmer swimming, charging through a fairly deep mud puddle with no hesitation, before climbing back up the steep terrain to where I started.

Even with the X3's 201 mm (7.9 in) of ground clearance, it's best to keep wilderness trekking on the light side. (Photo: BMW AG)

While it would most likely be possible to take any compact SUV through this prepared light-duty course, the X3 proved especially capable of executing the job at hand with speed and agility. Just like on pavement, the X3's xDrive, plus its traction and yaw control, kept things pointed in the optimal direction, avoiding trees and a formidable drop-off to bring us home safely. Something else worth noting is the X3's ground clearance, at 201 mm (7.9 in). This should make it sufficient for scaling more challenging roads when called upon. The 'off-road capable' Freelander's much lower 183 mm (7.2 in) looks pale in comparison. Still, with no low gear and not much in the way of skid plate protection, it's best to keep wilderness trekking on the light side.

BMW, of course, chose not to build serious off-road capability into the X3, following the successful pattern of its X5. After all, the brand that epitomizes premium performance for more owners than probably any other must be careful just how far it strays from its foreordained path.