2025 BMW X3 Review: A Comprehensive Look at the Redesigned Luxury SUV

The first impression can be everything, and for the 2025 BMW X3, it’s certainly making a statement. While some might recall similar sentiments about the current generation BMW M4’s polarizing aesthetics, the new BMW X3 for 2025 treads a similar path, albeit with its own distinct flavor. This review dives deep into whether the redesigned X3 lives up to the hype and if it deserves your attention in the competitive luxury SUV market.

Bavarian engineering prowess is undeniable, and the X3 M50 variant is a testament to this. It masterfully blends sporty performance with enhanced comfort, making it a truly versatile family vehicle with a touch of luxury. However, the question remains: does its design match its engineering brilliance? Let’s explore every facet of the 2025 BMW X3 in this comprehensive review.

Exterior Design and Interior Impressions

Design is inherently subjective, and the 2025 X3 is unlikely to be universally praised as a visual masterpiece right away. It’s arguably not the most aesthetically challenging design BMW has released recently, but whether it’s genuinely attractive is a matter of personal taste. The Dune Grey Metallic finish, combined with fully painted fenders, gives it a somewhat ‘naked’ appearance, which might not appeal to everyone. Dimensionally, the X3 has grown, now wider and longer, yet sits lower, aiming for a more athletic stance. Specifically, it’s 1.3 inches longer, 1.1 inches wider, and an inch lower than its predecessor.

The interior of the 2025 BMW X3 represents a significant simplification, with a noticeable reduction in physical buttons compared to the previous generation. While some might find the cabin design less visually striking than other luxury competitors, it offers a clean and modern aesthetic. The prominent multi-color light bars are a defining feature, and while the press images showcase a bold red and blue combination, the standard soft brown theme is considerably more refined and less overtly flashy, avoiding a police car-like ambiance.

A notable drawback is the new interior door handles. The large, illuminated “X3” logo feels somewhat out of place in a luxury vehicle. Furthermore, the handle itself is constructed from a basic black plastic, lacking the premium metallic feel found in other BMW models and even the previous X3.

While door handles may seem like a minor detail, they are a tactile point of interaction every time you enter and exit the vehicle. For buyers expecting a luxury experience – a reasonable expectation when considering a BMW – these economy-car-feeling door handles can be surprisingly disappointing.

On a more positive note, the X3 features a generously sized center console storage area with dedicated phone slots. BMW’s iDrive 9 infotainment system is presented on a large, curved screen that is sharp, vibrant, and color-rich. While the software might have a learning curve for those new to BMW, and the climate controls are now integrated into the touchscreen, most owners will likely adapt to the system over time.

Driving Experience: Performance and Handling

The standard 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. However, this review focuses on the M50 model, equipped with BMW’s renowned B58 straight-six engine, now enhanced with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This powertrain delivers a robust 393 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque.

The X3 M50 is undeniably quick, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds – matching the pace of a manual 2016 BMW M2 – and reaching a top speed of 155 mph with performance tires. Yet, in everyday driving, it maintains a relaxed and composed demeanor. Compared to the outgoing X3 M40i, the new model offers a more compliant ride and lighter steering. The driving experience is smoother and less aggressive, which is arguably a positive shift for a daily-driven family SUV. The X3 excels at high-speed stability and effortless maneuverability in urban environments, making it a refined and comfortable daily driver.

Despite its more subdued character, the M50 retains impressive capability when pushed. On a closed autocross course, the X3 M50 demonstrated surprising agility. Nimble body control and sophisticated torque-vectoring technology allow it to navigate tight corners with remarkable ease, rivaling even some hot hatchbacks. Improvements in body rigidity, a wider rear track, and refined suspension tuning contribute to a softer overall setup without compromising its sporty potential.

While the steering lacks ultimate feedback, it is well-weighted and responsive in various driving situations, offering sufficient engagement for spirited driving on backroads.

The straight-six engine remains exceptionally smooth and powerful. In line with its more mature character, engine noise is subdued in this application, although artificial sound enhancement is an available option. The eight-speed automatic transmission is a standout feature, delivering incredibly rapid gear changes via the paddle shifters – comparable to Porsche’s PDK in terms of speed and responsiveness. M Sport brakes (four-piston front, single-piston rear) provide strong and confident stopping power without feeling overly sensitive.

Features, Options, and Rivals

The 2025 BMW X3 starts at $50,675 for the base 30 xDrive model, while the M50 version begins at $65,275.

Standard equipment on the X3 30 xDrive includes 19-inch wheels, power-adjustable and heated front seats, parking assist, and navigation. The Convenience package ($1,400) adds remote start, a panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, and rear seat coat hooks. The Premium package ($3,400) includes the Convenience package features plus a head-up display, interior camera, Parking Assist Plus, and BMW’s semi-automated driving assistance for stop-and-go traffic. The M50 includes many of these features as standard, but the Premium package ($2,700) is still required for the head-up display, interior camera, Park Assist Plus, assisted driving, and Harman Kardon audio.

The BMW X3 faces a crowded and competitive segment, with rivals including the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, Porsche Macan, Lexus NX, Acura RDX, Genesis GV70, and Volvo XC60. The Audi Q5 is a more established model (which some might appreciate for its familiarity), while the Porsche Macan is significantly more expensive. The recently redesigned Mercedes-Benz GLC is arguably the X3’s most direct competitor.

Fuel Efficiency and MPG

Fuel economy is an area where the BMW X3 excels compared to its German rivals. BMW’s engine technology delivers superior efficiency figures in both engine configurations, according to EPA ratings. The six-cylinder X3 M50 achieves 27 mpg combined, while the four-cylinder X3 30 xDrive reaches 29 mpg combined.

The fuel efficiency of the GLC43, even with its downsized four-cylinder engine, is particularly noteworthy in this comparison, highlighting BMW’s advantage in powertrain efficiency.

Final Verdict: Should You Consider the 2025 BMW X3?

Overall, the 2025 BMW X3 M50 is a refined and comfortable luxury SUV that offers a surprising blend of performance and agility. It represents an improvement in daily driving comfort compared to its predecessor and, aside from the somewhat intrusive touchscreen-centric user experience, is a pleasant vehicle for everyday use.

While the exterior design might not be universally acclaimed as an upgrade over the previous, more traditionally styled X3 – and details like the interior door handles are a clear step down – familiarity may soften initial opinions as the new X3 becomes more commonplace. If you are in the market for a compact luxury SUV and can reconcile with the new design direction, the 2025 BMW X3 offers compelling performance and features, making it a strong contender worthy of serious consideration and a test drive.