BMW’s X3 has been redesigned for 2025 with a restyled exterior and posh-like interior. The fourth generation compact SUV also offers new engine choices and a technology package that gets mixed reviews.
All of this is aimed at gaining market share over Mercedes-Benz GLC, its long-time German rival while other competitors include the Lexus NX, Acura RDX and Genesis GV70 – all fine automobiles.
Our xDrive30i tester was powered by a revised 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder developing 255 horsepower with 295 lb.-ft of torque. We found this combination has ample power and will satisfy those familiar with X3’s firm suspension, quiet ride and handling characteristics.
Without changing the capacity of the 17.2-gallon fuel tank, the new X3 now travels 499 miles, 47 more than before due to its 48-volt mild hybrid system that also adds 6-7 miles-per-gallon in city/highway travel. Win-win for the new sporty X3.
If you need more juice, the X3 M50 xDrive gets a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder with 393 ponies and 428 lb. ft of torque. T he M50 is said to reach the 60 mile per hour mark from a dead stop in 4.4 seconds compared with the 6.1 seconds for the X3 30i. Each is mated with an eight -speed automatic transmission.
Rear cargo space is decent at 31.4 cubes. With rear seats folded nearly flat, space increases to 67.2 cubic feet – an increase of nearly five cubes over its predecessor while outsizing its GLC rival by 10 cubes.
The X3 is slotted between the company’s entry level compact X1 and mid-size X5. They each share the same robust exterior lines while our tester showed off its new slanted grille – a more pronounced geometric flair than its predecessor while maintaining its German heritage.
Curb appeal is enhanced by its aggressive- looking 20-inch Pirelli shoes with optional midnight gray wheels.
The X3 won’t disappoint in highway maneuvers. Whether merging onto freeway on-ramps or executing passing maneuvers, the X3 with its rigid body and wider rear stance holds the road firmly. Steering is precise and braking remains firm under track conditions.
A Sport driving mode can be tuned in for a high-performance ride experience. Efficient mode will better fuel economy and Personable mode allows a customized driver setting.
While we chose to delete artificial engine-noise piped into the cabin, drivers can regulate the level, tolerate it or shut it down with the Active Sound Design settings. Mood modes change interior color displays, lighting and climate settings.
There is a plethora of interior hightech available streaming from a 26inch curved screen atop the dashboard, some would say as an afterthought. It is streamlined for sure but takes some getting used to with odd venting up front along with deep audio, navigation and climate control drilling to accomplish basic tasks.
iDrive center console settings do maintain familiar ground from previous X3s.
Our tester included adaptive cruise control with full stop, self-parking system, forward collision mitigation, active blind spot detection and lane keep assist.
Be sure to test drive the new X3 and Mercedes GLC for a true comparison. A similarly equipped Mercedes costs $5,000 more.