BMW X3 (2025)

The new BMW X3 has arrived with an enhanced blend of sporty appeal, striking design, and exceptional versatility, perfect for everyday driving and long journeys alike.Featuring a refreshed design language, this premium midsize Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) radiates dynamic elegance and sophistication. Inside, the advanced BMW iDrive system with QuickSelect, powered by BMW Operating System 9, combines digital functionality with a modern, refined ambiance, while precise vehicle tuning and cutting-edge control systems enhance driving dynamics and comfort, alongside an impressive array of automated driving and parking features.

The BMW X3 offers a range of efficient powertrains, including new modular internal combustion engines and a plug-in hybrid system with advanced BMW eDrive technology. Leading the lineup is the BMW X3 M50 xDrive, a high-performance M model with a six-cylinder engine and 48V mild-hybrid tech. The lineup also includes four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines for the BMW X3 20 xDrive and X3 20d xDrive, along with the BMW X3 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid, boasting an extended electric range of 50-56 miles (81-90 km) in the WLTP cycle for zero-emission urban and suburban driving.

BMW has made strides in reducing the X3’s carbon footprint, not only through electrification but also through aerodynamic improvements, reaching a class-leading Cd of 0.27. The SAV is manufactured with resource-efficient processes at BMW Group’s Spartanburg (USA) and Rosslyn (South Africa) plants. Rosslyn will exclusively produce the plug-in hybrid model for global markets. The BMW X3’s launch will begin in the U.S. and Europe in late 2024, expanding globally by early 2025, with primary sales regions in the U.S., Germany, Italy, Spain, and Asia-Pacific.

The BMW X3 Legacy: A Pioneer in the SAV Market

The BMW X3 established the SAV segment for the premium midsize class 20 years ago, introducing intelligent all-wheel-drive technology and setting the stage for the global success of BMW’s X models. Throughout its three generations, the X3 has maintained its dominance as the best-selling model in its class, with over 3.5 million units sold. In 2023, the third-generation BMW X3 even became BMW’s best-selling model worldwide.

Design and Proportions: A New, Powerful Look

The fourth-generation BMW X3 features an evolved design language, with bold surfaces and streamlined, refined lines that give it a sophisticated, monolithic look. Its exterior is 34 mm longer and 29 mm wider than its predecessor, with a 25 mm lower stance, enhancing its athletic appearance. Larger front and rear track widths further underscore its dynamic capabilities.

The X3’s front end showcases a bold kidney grille with optional Iconic Glow lighting, flanked by reimagined twin headlights with Adaptive LED options. From the side, a long, gracefully contoured roofline and flush door handles create a clean, modern profile, while the rear’s sculpted surfaces and T-shaped LED lights emphasize both power and style. An available M Sport package adds sporty touches, including a blacked-out grille, unique side skirts, and a rear diffuser.

Interior: A Blend of Modern Functionality and Premium Comfort

Inside, the BMW X3 combines SAV practicality with luxurious spaciousness. The new digital BMW Curved Display, Interaction Bar, sport seats, and redesigned control panel create a driver-focused cockpit. Enhanced acoustic elements, improved rear passenger knee room, and a larger trunk provide comfort for both everyday use and long trips. Rear seats fold in a 40:20:40 split, expanding the cargo space up to 1,700 liters (or 1,600 liters in the plug-in hybrid variant).

The standard equipment now includes automatic tailgate operation, Comfort Access for hands-free tailgate use, and an optional electric trailer hitch with a towing capacity of up to 2,500 kg.

Progressive Cockpit Design and Enhanced Digital Experience

The advanced BMW iDrive system with QuickSelect offers a simplified, fully digital interface, reducing the need for physical controls. The 12.3-inch information display and 14.9-inch control display integrate seamlessly into the BMW Curved Display, contributing to a minimalist and modern cockpit design. Ambient lighting elements and the customizable My Mode settings create a personalized driving atmosphere, complementing the interaction with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

Overall, the new BMW X3 brings enhanced styling, innovative technology, and eco-conscious engineering, reinforcing its role as a leader in the premium SAV segment.

Enhanced Standard Features in the BMW X3: Electrically Adjustable Seats, Redesigned Steering Wheels

The new BMW X3 now features standard multi-way, electrically adjustable sport seats with a memory function for the driver. All adjustments can be controlled through the built-in panel, except for the seat cushion depth and headrest height, which are adjusted manually. The front seats are heated, with options for lumbar support, adjustable backrest width (standard in the BMW X3 M50 xDrive), and active seat ventilation. Rear-seat heating is also available.

The newly designed steering wheels now have a flat-bottomed design with haptic feedback control buttons. The standard version has a two-spoke design and polygonal rim, while the optional M leather steering wheel features a three-spoke design with a center marking at the 12 o’clock position. Both versions come with shift paddles for manual control of the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, and steering wheel heating is optional.

Leather-Free, Recycled Interior Materials

BMW has prioritized sustainability in the new X3, featuring a fully leather-free interior standard. The seats, instrument panel, and door panels are made from recycled Econeer upholstery, offering a bi-color design with contrasting stitching. An optional perforated Veganza upholstery, which mimics leather, is available in Black, Calm Beige, and Espresso Brown. The M Sport package includes Veganza/Alcantara in Black, while BMW Individual Merino leather in Black or Amber is also an option.

The X3 also debuts an optional instrument panel crafted from recycled polyester with a high-quality knit texture for a sophisticated look. Standard trim includes a Dark Graphite center console finish, with optional upgrades like Fine Brushed Aluminum (included in the M Sport package) and BMW Individual Magnolia wood trim.

Enhanced Sound, Climate Control, and Customization Options

The BMW X3’s standard features are now more comprehensive, including an alarm system, auto-dimming mirrors, Bluetooth, four USB-C ports, and a 12V socket in the luggage compartment. The BMW Live Cockpit Plus, with BMW Maps and a six-speaker audio system, is also standard, while an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system with 15 speakers offers a premium audio experience.

The standard three-zone automatic climate control allows independent settings for the driver, passenger, and rear. Options include a panoramic glass sunroof and sun protection glass for the rear, as well as sun blinds for the rear side windows. The optional Premium Package adds lumbar support, Harman Kardon audio, and Adaptive LED Headlights, while the Comfort Package enhances rear seat heating, sun blinds, and active seat ventilation.

Safety and Protection Features

The BMW X3’s safety structure includes reinforced zones and an advanced restraint system. Standard safety equipment includes three-point inertia-reel belts on all seats and front, side, and head airbags. An interaction airbag between the driver and front passenger offers additional protection in side-impact collisions.

Powertrain and Efficiency: Enhanced Plug-In Hybrid and Mild Hybrid Technology

The BMW X3 offers a broad range of powertrains, from four-cylinder engines to a powerful six-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW X3 M50 xDrive. A new six-cylinder diesel engine will join the lineup in 2025. The X3 also includes the latest BMW eDrive technology for its plug-in hybrid system, offering increased power and electric range in the BMW X3 30e xDrive.

All powertrains feature 48V mild hybrid technology. In the X3 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid, the combined output from the four-cylinder petrol engine and updated electric motor reaches 220 kW (299 hp), with an increased electric-only range of up to 56 miles. The new model’s Combined Charging Unit enables fast charging, supporting up to 11 kW on AC power for a full charge in 2 hours and 15 minutes. The Connected Home Charging option allows solar- and load-optimized charging for cost efficiency.

The petrol variant, the BMW X3 20 xDrive, is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a mild hybrid system for smooth, responsive power delivery. With combined output reaching 153 kW (208 hp) and fuel-efficient performance, the X3 20 xDrive combines power and efficiency, offering a satisfying drive without compromising on fuel economy.

The BMW X3 combines sustainability, advanced technology, and luxury, offering an upgraded experience in every aspect, from comfort and connectivity to efficiency and safety.

Latest Diesel Engine in the BMW X3 20d xDrive: Enhanced Efficiency and Power

The BMW X3 20d xDrive now includes a newly refined four-cylinder diesel engine, boasting improved efficiency and performance. This engine integrates 48V mild-hybrid technology, a lightweight crankcase with low-friction, tempered steel pistons, and a graphite coating for smoother operation. Additionally, the engine features an electrically driven oil separator and BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with advanced two-stage turbocharging, common-rail injection, and exhaust gas recirculation to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

With a maximum output of 145 kW (197 hp) and 400 Nm of torque, this model accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 7.7 seconds. Efficiency is optimized with fuel consumption ranging between 6.5 to 5.8 L/100 km (43.5 to 48.7 mpg), and CO2 emissions between 171 and 153 g/km under WLTP standards.

Eight-Speed Steptronic Transmission with Standard Paddle Shifters

All BMW X3 models come equipped with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, now lighter with smoother and more precise shifts. Paddle shifters on the steering wheel allow for quick manual adjustments, while an optional M Sport Boost function enhances acceleration by setting all systems to their sportiest modes. The transmission integrates route data from the navigation system and driver assistance inputs to adapt its shift strategy for optimal performance and efficiency.

Enhanced BMW xDrive All-Wheel Drive for Optimized Traction and Agility

The xDrive all-wheel-drive system has been updated to provide optimal power distribution and efficiency. Its electronically controlled multi-plate clutch and rear-wheel bias improve traction and stability. The lighter, more responsive system can handle higher torque and maintain reduced thermal load during dynamic driving. An on-demand oil level control and improved mounting system further refine efficiency, acoustics, and reduce vibration.

BMW Efficient Dynamics and Aerodynamic Enhancements

The BMW X3 embodies BMW Efficient Dynamics, featuring a low drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.27 thanks to improved air flap control and optimized front apron design. New aerodynamic wheels in 19, 20, and 21-inch sizes are also available to reduce drag. Rear-end styling enhancements, such as an air blade, streamline airflow, while a mostly enclosed underbody adds further aerodynamic benefits.

The eDrive Zones feature for the plug-in hybrid model enables emission-free driving in low-emission areas. Adaptive recuperation in all models maximizes electric range by adjusting energy regeneration based on route data and traffic conditions.

Refined Chassis and Adaptive Suspension for Sporty Handling and Comfort

The BMW X3’s chassis enhancements result in superior agility, handling precision, and long-distance comfort. A wider rear track, stiffer rear axle hydromounts, and updated anti-roll bar mounting ensure improved stability and handling dynamics. M Sport suspension with sport steering is available for sharper responsiveness, while adaptive suspension allows for different damper settings tailored to various driving modes.

Enhanced Braking System for Optimal Control

The BMW X3’s integrated braking system ensures strong stopping power and immediate response with precise pedal feedback. M Sport brakes, available with the M Sport package, offer enhanced braking performance with fixed-calliper discs on the front wheels and visually appealing blue or red callipers.

The BMW X3 M50 xDrive: The Range-Topping Performance Model

The BMW X3 M50 xDrive features a powerful six-cylinder M TwinPower Turbo engine with 48V mild-hybrid technology, delivering 293 kW (398 hp) for a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4.6 seconds. This model combines advanced transmission tuning, bespoke chassis components, and BMW M-specific design features to provide an exhilarating, agile, and precision-focused driving experience that embodies BMW’s performance heritage.

The BMW X3 M50 xDrive: A High-Performance Marvel with Cutting-Edge Features

The BMW X3 M50 xDrive debuts as the most powerful six-cylinder inline petrol engine ever seen in an M Performance model, embodying the essence of BMW M’s driving exhilaration. This newly engineered 3.0-liter engine from BMW Group’s latest modular generation showcases swift power delivery, an eagerness to rev, and impressively low fuel consumption and emissions for its output.

Incorporating BMW’s Efficient Dynamics Next package, this engine boasts technology advances such as the Miller cycle, redesigned intake ports, refined combustion chamber geometry, and a reworked injection and ignition system. Enhanced M TwinPower Turbo technology includes a more efficient turbocharging system, indirect charge air cooling, and dual injection, maximizing power without sacrificing efficiency. The engine generates a robust 280 kW/380 hp between 5,200 and 6,250 rpm, with peak torque of 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) accessible from 1,800 to 4,800 rpm. Complementing the engine, the 48V mild hybrid technology utilizes a crankshaft-mounted starter generator for quick response and efficient performance, boosting the system to a total of 293 kW/398 hp and a peak torque of 580 Nm (428 lb-ft).

Distinctive sound dynamics enhance the driving experience with a flap-controlled exhaust system featuring four tailpipes in an unmistakable M-specific configuration. This sound system amplifies the engine’s soundtrack into the cabin, enriching the emotional drive.

Performance Features: Traction, Agility, and Sport-Tuned Handling

Equipped with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, the X3 M50 xDrive delivers a refined driving experience with shift paddles and the M Sport Boost function, which primes the powertrain and chassis for heightened responsiveness. The M Sport differential, combined with BMW xDrive’s all-wheel drive, offers a fully adjustable distribution of power between front and rear wheels for superior traction and stability.

The M Sport suspension comes standard with increased damping, firmer anti-roll bars, and elastokinematic adjustments for direct handling. For those desiring even sportier dynamics, the adaptive M suspension is available as an option, offering independently metered damping force for each wheel.

Aesthetic Enhancements and M-Specific Design Elements

The X3 M50 xDrive sports a refreshed BMW kidney grille with horizontal bars, an M logo, and the new BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting that surrounds each kidney uninterrupted. Distinctive air curtains connect to the large central intake, with a visually striking rear end featuring chrome or anthracite-trimmed four-pipe exhausts and flared wheel arches.

Inside the M Cockpit: Sport-Ready Interior and Enhanced Technology

An M-specific cockpit with sport seats in Veganza/Alcantara, an M leather steering wheel, and the Harman Kardon hi-fi system gives the interior a performance-focused ambiance. The BMW Curved Display and optional BMW Head-Up Display offer M-specific graphics, with additional M seat belts available with the M Sport package Pro.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

This fourth-generation X3 offers an expanded suite of driving and parking assistance features designed for semi-automated driving. Standard assistance systems include front collision warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Speed Limit Info, alongside the Driving Assistant package. The optional Driving Assistant Plus adds capabilities like Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go, Lane Change Warning, and route speed control.

With a plethora of innovations, from powertrain to advanced driver assistance, the BMW X3 M50 xDrive is a peak M Performance model that combines raw power, precision handling, and technology for a truly immersive driving experience.The BMW X3 boasts advanced driver assistance and parking technologies designed to enhance convenience and safety. The Driving Assistant Professional includes Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection, Road Priority Warning, Wrong-way Warning, Front Crossing Traffic Warning, and Emergency Stop and Lane Assistance, available in select European countries. German models also feature traffic light recognition and Road Priority Warning with Active Cruise Control.

Standard Parking Assistance Features

The new BMW X3 includes standard parking assistance with Active Park Distance Control (aPDC) sensors at the front and rear, providing visual and acoustic alerts and automatic braking to avoid obstacles. The Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant steer the car backward for up to 50 meters, retracing the original path. The Parking Assistant selects and maneuvers the car into parallel or perpendicular spaces with automated steering, acceleration, braking, and gear changes, while the Trailer Assistant aids in trailer maneuvering.

Enhanced Parking Assistance Plus

The optional Parking Assistant Plus provides Surround View, Top View, and 3D View, giving a 360-degree image around the vehicle. With Panorama View, drivers can check the vehicle’s surroundings when exiting blind spots, activated at saved GPS locations. The Remote 3D View allows smartphone access to live images of the vehicle’s vicinity. Parking Assistant Plus also includes a BMW Drive Recorder and anti-theft recorder, which captures footage from Surround View cameras and alerts users via the My BMW App.

Parking Assistant Professional

For further automation, Parking Assistant Professional enables smartphone-controlled parking and exiting from tight spaces, using road markings and curbs for guidance. It features the BMW Maneuver Assistant, which stores complex maneuvers up to 600 meters long, allowing GPS-based automatic execution with smartphone control. The Reversing Assistant can also steer up to 200 meters on previously traversed paths.

Display, Controls, and Connectivity

The BMW X3 features BMW Operating System 9, delivering a cutting-edge display and control system with the BMW iDrive and QuickSelect for easy access to key functions. The BMW Curved Display includes a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display, organized with QuickSelect for intuitive navigation and widgets for personalized configurations. The optional BMW Head-Up Display adds functionality, and the upgraded BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant facilitates a smooth driving experience through proactive automation.

Digital and Entertainment Options with BMW Digital Premium

The BMW Digital Premium package offers a comprehensive array of entertainment, including video apps, streaming music, podcasts, in-car gaming through AirConsole, and more. The vehicle’s navigation system BMW Maps offers 3D maps, Satellite View, and real-time traffic updates. BMW Digital Premium also facilitates online payment for parking and fuel. The My Modes feature enables personalized driving experiences with Expressive Mode, Relax Mode, Digital Art Mode, and Silent Mode.

Sustainability and Recycled Materials

The BMW X3 integrates sustainability at every level, aligning with the BMW Group’s goals to reduce lifecycle CO2 emissions by 40% by 2030. Materials like recycled polyester, PET monomaterials for floor mats, and secondary aluminum light-alloy wheels are used extensively. The X3’s interior is leather-free as standard, and seats use mono-materials from recycled sources to support a circular economy. Innovative eco-friendly production practices at BMW plants further reduce the vehicle’s carbon footprint.

This latest iteration of the BMW X3 showcases a balanced blend of technology, sustainability, and luxury, designed to provide an advanced, connected, and eco-conscious driving experience.