BMW X3

The BMW X3 is an compact luxury crossover SUV manufactured by German automaker BMW since 2003. Based on the BMW 3 Series platform, and now in its second generation, BMW markets the crossover as a Sports Activity Vehicle, the company's proprietary descriptor for its X-line of vehicles. The first generation X3 was designed by BMW in conjunction with Magna Steyr of Graz, Austria—who also manufactured all X3s under contract to BMW. BMW manufactures the second generation X3 at their Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, United States.

First generation (E83; 2003–2010)

The first generation BMW X3, internally designated as the E83, was produced from 2003 to 2010 and based on the BMW 3 Series platform. The E83 was designed by BMW in conjunction with Magna Steyr of Graz, Austria—who also manufactured all first generation X3s under contract to BMW.

As a precursor to the X3, BMW presented the xActivity concept vehicle at the Detroit Auto Show in 2003—based on the 3 Series platform and featuring a vestigial frame-structure convertible roof with reinforced, longitudinal rails connect the A-pillars to the rear of the car on both sides, eliminating B- or C-pillars and creating a distinct profile.