The Car Connection Expert Review
Likes
- Reasonable starting price
- M50 upgrades
- Bigger, roomier
- Interesting interior
- Good standard features
Dislikes
- Front fascia
- Capacitive vent sliders
Buying tip
features & specs
The 2025 BMW X3 leans into efficiency with a new mild-hybrid system but expands its size for an even roomier cabin.
The X3 compact crossover is BMW’s second-bestselling model behind the X5, and a redesigned 2025 BMW X3 rolls into the new year with updated engines and a forthcoming fully electric model expected for 2026. This preview will be updated once we drive it.
What kind of vehicle is the 2025 BMW X3? What does it compare to?
The popular X3 seats five and rivals the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Audi Q5 as well as the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Genesis GV70 in the packed luxury crossover segment.
Is the 2025 BMW X3 a good SUV?
Historically, the small crossover’s long nose and stout body complemented a performance spectrum that ranged from the refined to the rowdy. Advanced technology and innovative interfaces complemented good standard safety features, but the options packages could get dizzying and electrified models lacked inroads in the U.S., capping its TCC Rating to 6.8 out of 10. The 2025 model promises to lean on its strengths and employ a mild-hybrid system, but the styling is more polarizing than in past years. We’ll update its score once we drive it later this year. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
What's new for the 2025 BMW X3?
Wider, longer, and lower, the redesigned X3 ditches the scalloped beltline for flatter, smoother body sides with only a rocker panel indent between the low-profile 19- to 21-inch alloy wheels. Pronounced fender flares hike up its skirts, and a racier LED signature bookends the front and back.
BMW’s signature kidney grille, on dialysis in recent years, has morphed into gaping nostrils that sit over a push-broom mustache on the X3. Sure, the ‘stache is in right now, but there’s something about the X3’s face that looks like a fake mustache and eyeglass costume. It’s illuminated on M50 models, like Groucho winking. If you’re not hip to the ‘stache, BMW presents an available grille with diagonal lines crossover over vertical lines like a napkin serving set at a yacht club.
That pattern can be duplicated inside, Sailor, on the center console. Otherwise, aside from ambient lights hooking the center console and door panels, and a curved digital interface, the dash is a broad plain of openness. It centers more on the driver, with a flat-bottom steering wheel as well as a 12.3-inch customizable instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen, with most functions including climate control reliant on touch inputs, the console dial, gesture control, or voice commands. It appears BMW is using capacitive sliders for the vents, seat memory, and door locks.
What engines power the 2025 BMW X3?
The driver operates the controls for either a X3 30 xDrive or a M50 xDrive. All-wheel drive is standard, and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system helps both engines jump from a stop and ease off the engine when coasting. A 30 sDrive rear-wheel model could come later.
BMW fans might note that the brand no longer uses the “i” designation as part of its engine size nomenclature. Thus, the “i” on 30i or M40i on last year’s models has been dropped after decades of use that indicated fuel injection. The “i” now will be reserved exclusively for electric models.
The X3 in the U.S. will not be sold with an iX3 electric model sold elsewhere in the world until next year.
For now, the 2025 X3 30 xDrive sports a 2.0-liter turbo-4 updated with a new dual-injection system and a new turbocharger. The updates, as well as the mild-hybrid system, boost output from 248 hp and 258 lb-ft in the 2024 BMW X3 to 255 hp and 295 lb-ft in this more fuel- and power-conscious BMW X3. The extra torque comes on as early as 1,600 rpm, and along with BMW’s quick-shifting 8-speed automatic, it sprints to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds, same as last year’s base model.
The M50’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 delivers a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds and a top speed capped at 130 mph (155 mph with performance tires). Accounting for the mild-hybrid system, it’s rated at 393 hp and 428 lb-ft between 1,800 and 4,800 rpm. The inline-6 also benefits from changes to the intake ports, fuel injection system, and turbocharging system. It upgrades to adaptive dampers, an electronically locking rear differential, M Sport brakes, 20-inch alloy wheels, and other enhancements.
Towing capacity maxes out at 4,850 pounds for the X3 30.
Is the 2025 BMW X3 good on gas?
While the performance specs remain similar to last year’s model, BMW didn’t disclose mpg estimates and if it improves over the 2024 X3 30 xDrive’s 21 mpg city, 28 highway, 24 combined rating. The X3’s 17.2-gallon tank means you’ll log plenty of miles before stopping for a refill.
We would think BMW would tout any gains, but the extra size of the 2025 X3 may offset those gains.
How big is the 2025 BMW X3?
The fourth-generation X3 grows in size and roominess, but it’s only about 30 pounds heavier. It’s 1.3 inches longer to 187.2 inches overall, and it's 1.1 inches wider to 75.6 inches. The roof lowers an inch to 65.4 inches, yet the ground clearance grows 1.1 inches to 8.3 inches.
The cargo volume increases about three cubic feet, from 28.7 to 31.5 cubic feet; fold the rear seats down and it grows to 67.1 cubic feet, which is nearly 5.0 cubic feet more than last year. Rear legroom has always been a strong suit for the X3, and we expect that to continue this year.
How much does the 2025 BMW X3 cost?
The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive costs $50,675, including a $1,175 destination charge. That represents only a $780 increase over a similarly equipped 2024 X3. Standard features include heated power front seats, the large digital screen combo, and advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitors, active lane control, and parking assist.
Unlocking the greater power of the M50 harnesses nearly $15,000 more of your money, at a price of $65,275. Options include Merino leather, a woven fabric on the dash made of recycled polyester, adaptive cruise control, and other features.
Where is the 2025 BMW X3 made?
In Spartanburg, South Carolina, alongside other BMW crossover SUVs.
