We’re spending per 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 huge adjustments in and out. It additionally means expectations are excessive; in any case, there wasn’t a lot unhealthy you could possibly say concerning the earlier technology, significantly the range-topping and intensely dynamic X3 M mannequin. They are saying change is sweet, and we’re comfortable to report that someway, BMW discovered methods to enhance. There’s lots to like concerning the all-new G45 X3 — even when it’s following within the footsteps of the superb G01 mannequin that got here earlier than it.
Acquainted and Wonderful Powertrain
Presently, the G45 BMW X3 is simply accessible with xDrive. However that’s simply high-quality; it’s one of the crucial dynamic and pleasurable all-wheel drive techniques available on the market. Whereas it might’ve been good to check out the faster X3 M50 xDrive mannequin, we will’t say we’ve got any complaints concerning 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 techniques — but it surely feels as strong as ever.
A superb 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 the whole lot from BMW M Sequence autos to Ram vans 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 a little 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 gasoline economic system. The 17.2-gallon gasoline tank is sweet for nicely rattling close to 500 miles even in blended 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 the 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 varied 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 can undoubtedly take a while to study if you happen to’re unfamiliar with BMW. Even I wanted a full day with the automotive to essentially really feel comfy discovering the whole lot. Older iDrive techniques had 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 advocate it to consumers 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 might nonetheless be value it — no less than within the winter.
Comfy and Lux-Feeling Seats
The G45 X3 additionally marks the primary time BMW has provided the mannequin with Veganza upholstery. It’s a reasonably noticeable enchancment from the final X3 we drove with Sensatec, and feels smooth however supportive regardless of being the usual providing. Whereas there’s actually 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 features, the game seats are up for just about something and do a fantastic 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 ft of cargo area with all of the seats folded down, which is 5 extra cubic ft than final yr’s truck. Passenger area feels kind of the identical within the again, and we had no complaints from our few (grownup) backseat riders. After all, contemplating the 2025 BMW X3 is greater than its predecessor, it had higher be a little bit bit extra spacious. Fortunately, that’s the case.
Total, the G45 BMW X3 does so much good. After all, no automotive is ideal, and there are countless nits to choose — we’ll cowl them individually. The takeaway? The X3 stays a wonderful SUV for drivers prioritizing dynamism. And it nonetheless does numerous different issues nicely, too.
