BMW X3 2025: modernized German-style, made in the USA
The BMW X3, the German brand's best-selling model, has been given a complete makeover for the 2025 model year, along with its great rival, the Audi Q5. For its fourth generation, which evolves mainly in terms of design and technology, it will also have to contend with the imminent arrival of the iX3, the first-born of BMW's new family of electric models dubbed the Neue Klasse, as well as the discontinuation of the X4.
Its success will depend on a number of factors, some of which are beyond its control. In addition to prices that have risen from 2024, there's the issue of the 25% counter- customs tariffs imposed by Canada on vehicles that originate in the U.S. as retaliation in the trade war unleashed by U.S. President Donald Trump. The X3 is assembled in Spartanburg, South Carolina (as are the majority of BMW's other SUVs, incidentally), so its situation will be one to watch closely.
Electrically influenced design
The new BMW X3 2025 has lost some of its curves and looks like it was carved out of rock. In the process, it has gained 34 mm in length and 29 mm in width, but lost 16 mm in height, giving it a beefier, chunkier look. The designers drew inspiration from electric models, for example with the seemingly closed grille (here adorned with a mix of vertical and diagonal bars) and the body-integrated door handles. That said, there's still a huge pit at the junction of the hood and windscreen where snow and ice will accumulate if you don't keep the vehicle sheltered in winter.
While we like the new signature headlights and taillights, the rear end is a little less flattering, especially when viewed from the side. The black spoiler that extends over the edges of the X3's bezel provides contrast, as does the bumper trim that conceals the exhaust tips. Varying from 19 to 21 inches, the wheels are certainly eye-catching, with our 30 xDrive test model inheriting the smallest on the menu. Of course, BMW continues to offer the M Sport package for those seeking a more racy style.
A refreshing interior
We particularly appreciated the major transformation of the interior, where comfort and the quality of materials have taken a giant leap forward. The presentation is superb and refreshing, notably with the new curved digital interface and its interactive bar on the dashboard, the new dynamic ambient lighting and this woven fabric upholstery made from recycled polyester (optional). All this under a vast panoramic (non-opening) roof.
Both the instrument cluster and the iDrive 9 infotainment system prove to be very attractive, the latter controllable via the touchscreen (thanks to the row of icons always accessible at the bottom), the large thumbwheel and buttons that remain on the center console (now with a simple switch replacing the gearshift lever) or voice commands. The 360-degree view is handy, but the fish-eye image from the rearview camera is not.
The redesigned sports seats are wonderfully supportive - bonus points for the adjustable side bolsters. However, some people might prefer them a little less firm. You'll quickly get used to the new hexagonal steering wheel, also trimmed in leatherette, and its redesigned buttons.
Storage is adequate, but nothing more, and space is ideally suited to a family. Adults in the rear seats have ample headroom, but less legroom. As for the trunk, it comes close to 900 liters, representing a gain of almost 10% over the previous X3, and reaches 1,900 liters when all the rear seats are folded, with a 40/20/40 split. Hard to ask for more. Need to tow? Maximum capacity remains at 4,000 lb in base version, but rises to 4,850 lb in M50 xDrive version.
More muscle
For 2025, BMW engineers have toned up the two main engines. In the case of the 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder we tested, it develops 255 hp (+7) and 295 lb-ft of torque (+37), enough to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, and is part of a lightweight hybrid system with a 48-volt battery that optimizes its performance and efficiency. Despite a slight lag that persists at the accelerator pedal, it's a pleasant engine to operate and satisfactory for most drivers, especially as the 8-speed automatic transmission serves it well and doesn't tend to hesitate at low speeds like others.
Sport mode makes this X3 noticeably more responsive, although activating it requires finding the tiny recessed button on the console and then tapping the touchscreen. There's also an Efficient mode, which we used briefly. In the end, fuel consumption came in at 8.8 L/100 km, without making any real effort to save the recommended premium fuel. It's worth noting that the vehicle was still equipped with winter tires, and we spent about 60% of our time driving in the city. The official average for the 30 xDrive version is 8.1 L/100 km.
By the way, BMW has improved the agility, cornering stability, and long-distance comfort of all X3 models, thanks in part to a lighter and more rigid structure, wider tracks, and a reworked suspension. That said, the suspension is still stiffer than most luxury SUVs. On winding roads, the firm steering responds quickly and offers good feedback. Braking is confident and easy to modulate.
To get the adaptive M suspension, you have to move up to the X3 M50 xDrive, which also comes with larger wheels and a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine. Its output has increased from 382 to 393 horsepower, and torque has gone from 369 to 428 lb-ft, but the added weight slows its 0–100 km/h sprint by a tenth of a second, now taking 4.6 seconds. At the time of writing, BMW has yet to announce the return of the plug-in hybrid variant or the formidable X3 M Competition – likely just a matter of time.
Our Verdict
The 2025 BMW X3 starts at $58,900 for the 30 xDrive version, a $2,200 increase over the 2024 model, and at $74,900 for the M50 xDrive — not including various fees, numerous options, taxes, or future custom tariffs. The evolution of this German compact SUV, built in the United States, has been bold, and while its exterior design may not appeal to everyone, the interior environment is truly impressive. The X3 remains a benchmark for driving enjoyment and performance.
Catching up to the Audi Q5 and Lexus NX in the Canadian sales charts will, however, be a tough challenge, especially in the current market context. We also encourage you to consider the Genesis GV70, which is less popular but highly refined and one of the best options in the category according to the team at The Car Guide.
