The all-new 2025 BMW X3 has been unveiled as a compact SUV based on a revolutionary new platform. Its modern and confident interior and exterior design defines an entire generation of BMW vehicles. As for the electric version, the iX3, it will arrive next year, with details revealed in the Vision Neue Klasse X concept this spring. It is the first BMW to adopt the company's next-generation platform.
Since not everyone is ready to switch to electric power, the iX3 will be sold alongside the combustion engine X3. This is a significantly updated version of the 2024 model, with the letter 'i' removed from the name xDrive 30i, which becomes xDrive 30, while the M50 replaces the M40i, and the basic two-wheel-drive version has been completely eliminated.
The vehicle retains a wheelbase of 2865 mm, borrowing design elements from the smaller X1 model introduced in 2022. It features changes in length, width, and height, giving the new model a larger appearance. The high-end M50 xDrive features a divided illuminated grille, which is optional in the base model 30xDrive, the only other variant available. The new grille design, consisting of vertical and diagonal bars, has sparked controversy, while the M50 features horizontal bars instead.
Other factors contributing to the vehicle's larger size include standard adaptive dampers, M Sport brakes, and 20-inch M wheels. A rear M Sport differential and quad exhaust outlets are also available. Most importantly, the 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, aided by a 48-volt hybrid system, delivers 393 horsepower and 580 Nm of torque, compared to the previous M40i's 382 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, while maintaining the same acceleration time of 4.4 seconds.
The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the BMW X3 also gains mild hybrid technology, increasing power from 248 horsepower to 255 horsepower and adding 50 Nm of torque for a total of 400 Nm. Both the new and old models accelerate to 100 km/h in 6 seconds, while the new model has gained 12 kg in weight. The X3 M model is expected to inherit the additional 20 horsepower recently granted to the M3 and M4 Competition xDrive, raising output to 523 horsepower.
BMW claims that the new X3 can better handle corners. The lower ride height in both models compared to the previous X3, the wider rear, a more rigid body structure, and various engineering modifications are all factors that are said to enhance steering precision and stability.
The vehicle also features an updated interior design, finally providing BMW's familiar curved dashboard display, integrated infotainment screen, and distinctive instrument cluster. The automaker's OS9 technology enables wireless updates, allowing owners access to music, video, news, navigation, and in-car games.
The elimination of the base RWD sDrive model significantly raises the base price. For instance, the xDrive 30 model, priced at $49,500, is only $600 more expensive than before. Meanwhile, the M50 is priced at $64,100, which is $2,220 more than the M40i, but still less than its competitors, the Porsche Macan S and Mercedes AMG GLC 43.
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