It’s been around since 2004 and, for the 2025 model year, the BMW X3 has been revealed in its fourth-generation iteration, with incremental updates as opposed to a radical redesign; why mess with a winning formula?
For the new X3, all-wheel drive is now standard and both models on offer feature a hybrid component; the X3 xDrive30 features a turbocharged, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, boosted by a 48-volt hybrid system, giving a total of 190kW (255 horsepower). The X3 M50 (BMW has dropped the ‘i’ from its petrol and diesel-engined cars, saving that letter for the full electric models) features a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, with the same hybrid component, for a total of 293kW (393 horsepower). Both get an eight-speed automatic transmission.
While the outer dimensions are larger in every direction, the drag coefficient has actually reduced thanks to careful work in the wind tunnel.
The 2025 X3’s driver-assist systems comprise a new level of new comfort- and safety-enhancing features, including automated lane change warning, adaptive cruise control with traffic-light recognition, and parking assistance. There’s also a new available Parking Assistant Professional Package that lets the car park itself in a predesignated parking space that’s been saved in the vehicle’s computers—think your assigned spot in a parking lot or garage—even while you are outside of the vehicle.
Adaptive suspension is standard on the M50 and can be ordered as an option on the xDrive30. Three drive modes, Personal, Efficient, and Sport, are provided to tailor responses to the driver’s needs. An optional trailer hitch allows the X3 to tow up to 2,200kg.
Standard equipment includes new heated and ventilated power-adjustable sports seats with three available colour choices for the faux-leather upholstery. There’s also an optional faux leather and faux suede combination available, as well as genuine leather. A woven fabric instrument panel made from recycled polyester is also on offer, marking its first use on any BMW product.
BMW’s latest iDrive 9 infotainment system makes its debut on the X3, and the iDrive rotary knob will be a familiar sight to owners of previous generation X3s. The system also accepts inputs via the touchscreen, steering wheel controls, and voice commands. A head-up display is optional. BMW Digital Premium allows for video streaming and gaming options when the vehicle is stopped, the latter in single- or dual-player modes. Spotify and Amazon Music join the X3’s list of audio streaming services.
Also inside the cabin, you’ll find three-zone automatic climate control, acoustic glazing, Comfort Access, automatic tailgate operation, an electric folding mechanism for the exterior mirrors, an alarm system and BMW Live Cockpit Plus complete with the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system. The new BMW X3 also comes as standard with ambient lighting featuring a Welcome and Goodbye Animation, a tray including wireless charging function for compatible smartphones, a Bluetooth interface, four USB-C ports, a 12V power socket in the centre console and another in the luggage compartment.
BMW has not announced prices at the time of going to press, but you can expect a significant price hike over the outgoing models. Contact your local BMW dealer for more information.latest
