29/06/2008 04:39. (Albuquerque Journal (NM) (KRT) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Jun. 28--To BMW, just because a vehicle is a tall utility wagon doesn't mean it shouldn't be quick, taut, safe and, best of all, fun to drive.

That's the Bavarian automaker's mantra for every car and crossover it sells. If BMW built delivery vans, they would probably outhandle most cars on the road.

The compact X3 sports activity vehicle (BMW's term) is really more of a raised station wagon than a SUV. In most respects, it is completely carlike, which is only logical since it is based on the previous-generation 3-series platform.

Of course, there's the commanding seating position SUV buyers desire, along with cargo-carrying versatility. But the X3's road manners would be more at home in a German sedan. That's what makes the X3... // TMCnet