We’re spending per week with the 2025 BMW X3, and there’s loads to soak up. It’s the primary 12 months of the nameplate’s fourth era, which suggests large adjustments in and out. It additionally means expectations are excessive; in any case, there wasn’t a lot unhealthy you possibly can say in regards to the earlier era, notably the range-topping and intensely dynamic X3 M mannequin. They are saying change is nice, and we’re pleased to report that by some means, BMW discovered methods to enhance. There’s lots 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 present, the G45 BMW X3 is just obtainable with xDrive. However that’s simply effective; it’s one of the vital dynamic and pleasant all-wheel drive methods in the marketplace. Whereas it might’ve been good to check out the faster X3 M50 xDrive mannequin, we are able to’t say now we have 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 adjustments 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 methods — however it feels as stable as ever.
A great 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 every part from BMW M Collection autos to Ram vans and virtually every part in between. And as common, BMW implements it completely right here. It’s faster than it was within the final X3, and redesigned paddle shifters really feel a bit sportier whereas nonetheless providing a well-recognized and satisfying “click on” upon shifts. If 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 nicely rattling close to 500 miles even in combined driving circumstances.
iDrive 9 is Eminently Usable
Screens are by no means my favourite function a couple of automotive, however contemplating the brand-wide push in direction of the bigger curved display is right here to remain, the 2025 BMW X3 does a stable 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, at the very least with the usual sound system) easy and fast. That mentioned, it’ll positively take a while to study if you happen to’re unfamiliar with BMW. Even I wanted a full day with the automotive to actually really feel comfy discovering every part. Older iDrive methods 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 affords. It’s a brand new addition to the BMW X3 for 2025. In our tester it comes bundled with the $3400 Premium Bundle, however it’s additionally obtainable within the $1400 Comfort Bundle. We’re right here for it, though extra timidly advocate it to customers within the Southwest and southern California. Regardless of common temperatures within the US Northeast the place we examined the automotive, sunny days made it toasty quick. Desert dwellers might discover the AC working extra time in the event that they go for the glass roof. It could nonetheless be price it — at the very least within the winter.
Snug and Lux-Feeling Seats
The G45 X3 additionally marks the primary time BMW has supplied the mannequin with Veganza upholstery. It’s a reasonably noticeable enchancment from the final X3 we drove with Sensatec, and feels tender however supportive regardless of being the usual providing. Whereas there’s definitely no complicated it for leather-based, will probably be greater than enough for much less discerning patrons. Paired with the heated and ventilated seat features, the game seats are up for just about something and do an incredible job of feeling sporty with out compromising ease of ingress/egress.
Loads of Area
The X3 has at all times 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 ft of cargo house with all of the seats folded down, which is 5 extra cubic ft than final 12 months’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 greater than its predecessor, it had higher be a bit bit extra spacious. Fortunately, that’s the case.
General, the G45 BMW X3 does loads good. In fact, no automotive is ideal, and there are countless nits to select — we’ll cowl them individually. The takeaway? The X3 stays a superb SUV for drivers prioritizing dynamism. And it nonetheless does a whole lot of different issues nicely, too.
