We’re spending every week with the 2025 BMW X3, and there’s rather a lot to absorb. It’s the primary yr of the nameplate’s fourth technology, which suggests large modifications inside and outside. It additionally means expectations are excessive; in any case, there wasn’t a lot unhealthy you might say in regards to the earlier technology, notably the range-topping and very dynamic X3 M mannequin. They are saying change is nice, and we’re comfortable to report that one way or the other, BMW discovered methods to enhance. There’s a lot to like in regards to the all-new G45 X3 — even when it’s following within the footsteps of the wonderful G01 mannequin that got here earlier than it.
Acquainted and Wonderful Powertrain
At the moment, the G45 BMW X3 is just accessible with xDrive. However that’s simply positive; it’s some of the dynamic and pleasing all-wheel drive techniques available on the market. Whereas it will’ve been good to check out the faster X3 M50 xDrive mannequin, we are able to’t say we have now any complaints in regards to the X3 30 xDrive; it’s a pleasure to drive. The turbocharged four-pot (B48B20O2) adopts acquainted 48-volt hybrid tech to ship a complete of 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. There are some modifications within the engine in comparison with the final B48 we noticed beneath the hood — primarily redesigned consumption ports and combustion chambers and new ignition and injection techniques — but it surely feels as strong as ever.
A very good engine is nothing with out an equally competent gearbox, and the X3 equally shines right here. The ZF eight-speed computerized is much from new at this level, popping up in all the pieces from BMW M Collection automobiles to Ram vans and nearly all the pieces in between. And as standard, BMW implements it completely right here. It’s faster than it was within the final X3, and redesigned paddle shifters really feel just a little sportier whereas nonetheless providing a well-known and satisfying “click on” upon shifts. Once you additional contemplating this X3 doesn’t even have any M Sport goodies, the magic BMW’s chassis engineers have labored is much more commendable. Bonus factors for concurrently delivering wonderful gas financial system. The 17.2-gallon gas tank is nice for properly rattling close to 500 miles even in blended driving situations.
iDrive 9 is Eminently Usable
Screens are by no means my favourite function a few automobile, however contemplating the brand-wide push in the direction of the bigger curved display is right here to remain, the 2025 BMW X3 does a strong job. After pairing up my cellphone and reacquainting myself with the assorted on-screen buttons, iDrive 9 and QuickSelect made navigation, media choice, switching drive modes, and even discovering and adjusting stereo settings (a should, no less than with the usual sound system) easy and fast. That mentioned, it’s going to undoubtedly take a while to study for those who’re unfamiliar with BMW. Even I wanted a full day with the automobile to essentially really feel snug discovering all the pieces. Older iDrive techniques have been maybe extra instantly intuitive.
New Panoramic Glass Roof
Let’s get the unhealthy information out of the best way: the panoramic roof doesn’t open in any respect. This was a disappointing discover, however solely after I spent hours actually having fun with the hell out of the pure mild and openness that the panoramic glass roof gives. It’s a brand new addition to the BMW X3 for 2025. In our tester it comes bundled with the $3400 Premium Bundle, but it surely’s additionally accessible within the $1400 Comfort Bundle. We’re right here for it, though extra timidly suggest it to buyers within the Southwest and southern California. Regardless of common temperatures within the US Northeast the place we examined the automobile, sunny days made it toasty quick. Desert dwellers could discover the AC working time beyond regulation in the event that they go for the glass roof. It could nonetheless be price it — no less than within the winter.
Snug and Lux-Feeling Seats
The G45 X3 additionally marks the primary time BMW has provided the mannequin with Veganza upholstery. It’s a fairly noticeable enchancment from the final X3 we drove with Sensatec, and feels gentle however supportive regardless of being the usual providing. Whereas there’s definitely no complicated it for leather-based, it will likely be greater than satisfactory for much less discerning patrons. Paired with the heated and ventilated seat capabilities, the game seats are up for just about something and do an amazing job of feeling sporty with out compromising ease of ingress/egress.
Loads of House
The X3 has all the time been “just-right” sized, and that doesn’t change with the G45 X3. The specs say the brand new 2025 BMW X3 has 67.1 cubic toes of cargo house with all of the seats folded down, which is 5 extra cubic toes than final yr’s truck. Passenger house feels roughly the identical within the again, and we had no complaints from our few (grownup) backseat riders. In fact, contemplating the 2025 BMW X3 is larger than its predecessor, it had higher be just a little bit extra spacious. Fortunately, that’s the case.
Total, the G45 BMW X3 does rather a lot good. In fact, no automobile is ideal, and there are infinite nits to choose — we’ll cowl them individually. The takeaway? The X3 stays a wonderful SUV for drivers prioritizing dynamism. And it nonetheless does a variety of different issues properly, too.
