Yahoo Autos The BMW X3 Is Totally Fresh for 2025
Following a slew of recent M Car debuts, BMW is ready to highlight the changes coming to its most popular SUV for the 2025 model year. Entering its fourth generation, the 2025 X3, revealed Tuesday, is slightly larger, adopts two new hybridized powertrains, and introduces BMW’s latest infotainment software. Here’s everything you need to know about the all-new mid-size SUV.
The fourth-generation X3 lineup is currently made up of two models: X3 30 xDrive and X3 M50 xDrive. You might notice a lack of an “i” after those numerals, and that's because BMW will only use that moniker for its EVs moving forward. The new SUV is slightly larger than its predecessor, measuring in at 1.3 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider, totaling 187.2 inches and 75.6 inches, respectively. BMW has also lowered the X3 by an inch to help improve its sporting stance, while wider tracks at either axle further accentuate the brawny shape.
The reworked bodywork brings the X3 in line with the current corporate design language, with clear inspiration from the likes of the iX and M2. It’s a good-looking SUV, particularly in X3 30 spec, but to our eyes, it’s not quite as handsome as the outgoing model. X3 30 xDrive customers will have a choice of 11 metallic exterior hues to choose from, whereas the M50 palette includes one solid and nine metallic hues. Vehicles built at the brand’s Spartanburg plant will also be available in more than 15 BMW Individual paint colors.
At the heart of the new X3 lineup sits two hybridized powertrains. The X3 30 xDrive models come equipped with the turbocharged 2.0-liter B48 4-cylinder engine, which has been thoroughly revised for 2025. The engine now runs on the Miller combustion cycle, which shortens the amount of time that the intake valves are open. The intake ports and combustion chambers have been redesigned to make the most use of that changeover, while a dual injection system helps optimize the pre-ignition mixture. The engine is also mated to a 48-volt mild hybrid system integrated within the 8-speed gearbox, which helps the 4-pot reach output figures of 255 hp and 295 lb-ft. Thanks in part to the all-wheel drive system, BMW says the SUV will do 0-60 mph in just six seconds flat.
The X5 M50 xDrive ditches the B48 for the turbocharged 3.0-liter B58 inline-six. The engine adopts the same Efficient Dynamics Next technology as the B48, including the Miller cycle adjustments. The engine also gets some M-specific hardware, such as a beefier crankshaft drive and revised oiling. The same 48-volt mild hybrid setup is also installed here, bringing total output up to 393 hp and 428 lb-ft. BMW says that allows the SUV to hit 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
Both X3 variants utilize a double-joint spring strut front and five-link rear suspension layout, though the M50 picks up some lighter Aluminum units from the M parts bin. BMW has also increased the caster offset of the steering system on all models by 19 percent, which improves straight-line stability. X3 30 xDrive customers can spec the optional M Sport suspension package, which brings additional upgrades like sport steering and M Sport brakes. Dynamic Damper Control is also available for those looking for a more comfort-oriented experience. Additionally, there's an optional adaptive suspension package, which comes as standard on the M50 xDrive and brings the most performance capability. A set of 19-inch wheels are standard on the entry-level model, whereas the M50 gets a set of 20s. Both 20- and 21-inch units are available on the offer sheet, however.
The new design language continues inside the cabin, which brings some modern simplicity to the fan-favorite SUV. Every model will now come equipped with heated sport seats, which can be finished in one of three hues. The steering wheel has a squared-off shape, accented by some nice gold-tone elements. The wheel sits in front of BMW’s large curved display, which encompasses the gauge cluster and central infotainment system. With the new iDrive 9 software, more hard buttons are removed from the interior in favor of touchscreen menus. Sitting behind that screen is the dashpad, which you can now spec in a fabric finish for the first time in a BMW.
In the images released Tuesday, the combination of materials, at least in the M50 xDrive, looks a little busy when specced together, but we'll hold official judgment until we see the SUV in person. The good news is that the interior has more storage space than before, with up to 67.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The outgoing model had only 31.5 cubic feet.
U.S. market examples of the 2025 X3 will be built at the brand’s Spartanburg, South Carolina facility. The X3 30 xDrive model is slated to carry a base price of $50,675 including destination charges. The M-enhanced X3 M50 xDrive is a bit more expensive, with an asking price starting at $62,275 including destination. That puts the X3 right in line with offerings like the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60, and Genesis GV70. Of course we also expect a proper X3 M model to arrive at some point, so be sure to check back to stay up to date on everything BMW.
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