The New 2025 BMW X3 represents three generations and twenty years of success. Since its launch, the German automaker’s mid-sized luxury SUV has been nothing short of formulaic perfection. Even though the third-generation model had been on the market for seven years by 2023, it was still the brand’s best-selling car worldwide.
But now it’s time to move on to the fourth-generation model and see if this new SUV can live up to the popularity of the X3. It features electrified engines, a tech-heavy interior, an upgraded platform, and new appearance.
Quick Specs
- Engine – Turbo 2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Mild-Hybrid
- Output -208 Horsepower / 243 Pound-Feet
- Drive Type – All-Wheel Drive
- 0-62 MPH- 7.8 Seconds
- Base Price – €64,000 (EU) / $50,675 (US)
Exterior
The length of the new BMW X3 is now 187.2 inches, an increase of 1.5 inches. There has been little change in the breadth (75.6 inches) and height (65.4 inches). All-wheel drive and longitudinally oriented engines notwithstanding, this is still BMW’s CLAR platform for mid-to-high-end cars.
However, the design of the fourth-generation SUV deviates from the standard, even though the dimensions stay loyal to the X3. First off, the bumper’s base features a new “double L” shape, a first for the X3. The double kidney grille on the base model features a unique cross-slat design; the M Sport trim turns it black.
The wheels are 21 inches in diameter, and the door handles are flush with the bodywork (the entire aerodynamic element is actually extremely well done, with a Cd of 0.27). At last, the light clusters’ split pattern reappears, and the bumper’s shape is flush with the tailgate and doesn’t have the typical step. Except for the aggressive M50, the exhaust tips are concealed directly by the bumper.
Interior
BMW has the greatest interiors of any premium brand when it comes to projecting a sense of perceived quality. This also applies to the new X3. There is more than enough space for backseat passengers in addition to ample storage for luggage (31.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 67.1 cubic feet when it is folded flat). The dashboard appears sleek and contemporary from the front.
There aren’t many physical buttons on the tunnel, but there is a roomy compartment with two USB-C ports, a dual cup holder, and wireless smartphone charging. It has beautiful LED surround accents, and you can pick between a sporty or more relaxed environment with a variety of colour modification options.
The steering wheel on the base model is somewhat square in shape. There’s a choice for upholstery made without using leather produced from animals, and the dashboard, seats, and door panels all have a pleasant feel to them. But there are still a few things that could be done better. It would have been great to include padding on the sides of the middle tunnel, where you frequently rest your knees for hours, as the handle for shutting the doors—the portion you contact the most—is made of hard plastic.
Infotainment and Connectivity Features
With dozens of functions and apps and over-the-air technologies to keep them updated, the infotainment system is fantastic. Additionally cordless are Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The rotary dial in the middle of the tunnel makes it simple to operate the 14.9-inch screen, which boasts outstanding resolution. The 12.3-inch digital instrument can be customized as needed. And lastly, you have total remote control over your vehicle with the BMW app on your smartphone.
Engine, Power and Performance
The test drive began with the mild-hybrid version of the BMW X3, the 20xDrive. This version, not available in the U.S., features a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that generates 190 horsepower. It is paired with an all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The removal of the “i” in the name indicates that it is now reserved for electric models, as the iX3 is being replaced by a new electric SUV on the Neue Klasse platform, debuting in 2025.
A key innovation in this model is integrating an electric motor, which adds 18 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. This electric motor assists the gasoline engine, lowering emissions and improving fuel efficiency. In total, the system produces 208 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque, allowing the X3 to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds, with a top speed of 134 mph.
The Sporty M50
For those looking for more power and thrill, there is a sportier X3 M50 that was also tested. It features a 3.0-litre straight-six engine producing 381 horsepower, boosted by the electric motor to 398 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque. The M50 reaches 62 mph in just 4.6 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph.
The automatic transmission ensures smooth cooperation between the electric and gasoline components, with responsive acceleration and restarts. The hybrid system’s battery recharges during deceleration, utilizing kinetic energy or surplus torque from the gas engine.
Driving Experience & Handling
The new X3’s intuitive handling is immediately noticeable, offering just the right amount of steering feedback. The optional adaptive suspension enhances the driving experience by providing excellent absorption on uneven roads and composure at higher speeds. The all-wheel-drive system maintains neutrality and control, instilling confidence in the driver.
The X3 offers a high driving position with good visibility, although the pillars at the base slightly widen. City driving is made easier with assistance from sensors and cameras, while highway driving is enhanced by the vehicle’s exceptional soundproofing and well-calibrated driver assistance systems—features BMW is known for. However, adjusting the driving modes requires several touchscreen interactions, which could prove inconvenient.
Pricing and Trims
The base BMW X3 xDrive20 starts at around €64,000, with higher-end M Sport and M Sport Pro trims pushing the price up to €70,600. The xDrive20d, which pairs the mild-hybrid system with a diesel engine, begins at €65,900, while the plug-in hybrid xDrive30e is priced at €71,000. For the ultimate X3 experience, the M50 comes in at €90,000, already equipped with the M Sport Pro trim.
