We’re spending every week with the 2025 BMW X3, and there’s so much to absorb. It’s the primary yr of the nameplate’s fourth technology, which suggests massive adjustments in and out. It additionally means expectations are excessive; in spite of everything, there wasn’t a lot unhealthy you can say in regards to the earlier technology, notably the range-topping and intensely dynamic X3 M mannequin. They are saying change is sweet, and we’re completely happy to report that one way or the other, 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 the moment, the G45 BMW X3 is simply out there with xDrive. However that’s simply high-quality; it’s one of the crucial dynamic and gratifying all-wheel drive programs available on the market. Whereas it could’ve been good to check out the faster X3 M50 xDrive mannequin, we will’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 below the hood — primarily redesigned consumption ports and combustion chambers and new ignition and injection programs — 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 way from new at this level, popping up in the whole lot from BMW M Collection automobiles to Ram vehicles and virtually the whole lot in between. And as regular, BMW implements it completely right here. It’s faster than it was within the final X3, and redesigned paddle shifters really feel slightly sportier whereas nonetheless providing a well-known and satisfying “click on” upon shifts. Whenever 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 glorious gas economic system. The 17.2-gallon gas tank is sweet for effectively rattling close to 500 miles even in blended driving situations.
iDrive 9 is Eminently Usable
Screens are by no means my favourite characteristic a few automobile, however contemplating the brand-wide push in direction of the bigger curved display screen is right here to remain, the 2025 BMW X3 does a strong job. After pairing up my telephone 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 least with the usual sound system) easy and fast. That stated, it’s going to undoubtedly take a while to study when you’re unfamiliar with BMW. Even I wanted a full day with the automobile to essentially really feel snug discovering the whole lot. Older iDrive programs 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 gentle 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 Package deal, but it surely’s additionally out there within the $1400 Comfort Package deal. We’re right here for it, though extra timidly suggest it to consumers 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 extra time in the event that they go for the glass roof. It might nonetheless be price it — at the 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 mushy however supportive regardless of being the usual providing. Whereas there’s actually no complicated it for leather-based, it is going to be greater than satisfactory for much less discerning consumers. Paired with the heated and ventilated seat features, the game seats are up for just about something and do an excellent 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 area with all of the seats folded down, which is 5 extra cubic toes than final yr’s truck. Passenger area 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 slightly bit extra spacious. Fortunately, that’s the case.
General, the G45 BMW X3 does so much good. In fact, no automobile is ideal, and there are infinite nits to select — we’ll cowl them individually. The takeaway? The X3 stays a superb SUV for drivers prioritizing dynamism. And it nonetheless does numerous different issues effectively, too.
