2025 BMW X3 xDrive redesign: Bigger, bolder and more exciting
Pros
- Improved efficiency
- Handles even better
- Big cargo hold
Cons
- Interior styling takes getting used to
- Some key functions buried in the touchscreen
- Stingy on standard driver assists
A name change and updated styling aren’t the only things different about the redesigned 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive. Under the compact SUV’s bigger body are improved bones that show BMW is still interested in delivering exciting driving experiences. The entry-level X3 is more practical than the previous model, as well.
The outgoing X3 delivered a solid mix of usefulness, comfort and fun, but it was a little slow for the segment, and some rivals are a better value. Does the latest base model improve on the formula? How does it stack up against one of its chief competitors, the Mercedes-Benz GLC Class SUV?
Hybrid boost good — Reason 1: Fuel economy
Most of the X3’s audience should appreciate the sizable bump in efficiency that comes with the now mild hybrid 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. Previously the crossover was rated at 21/28 mpg city/highway, but the new version leaps to 27/33 mpg. That’s big. Without changing the capacity of the 17.2-gallon fuel tank, the X3 can now go as far as 499 miles, 47 more than before.
More importantly, it turns the tables on a rival like the Mercedes GLC300, which used to be more efficient. The 2025 version of the Benz returns 23/31 mpg, and even though it has a slightly bigger tank (17.4 gallons), the GLC’s 452 miles of range now trails the BMW’s.
New quickness — Reason 2: Hybrid boost good
BMW’s 0–60-mph estimate for the updated X3 30 is bang-on what we recorded at the test track: 6.0 seconds, 0.4 second quicker than a 2022 model we tested. The added grunt isn’t enough to catch up to the 148-pound-heavier GLC, though, which makes an identical 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It, too, uses a 2.0-liter turbo-four with a 48-volt mild hybrid boost, with the system contributing up to 23 hp and a relatively gargantuan148 lb-ft of torque. The BMW setup offers just 11 hp and 18 lb-ft.
Even so, the X3’s power is adequate, and it has enough grunt for merging easily into swiftly moving interstate traffic and executing most passing moves. BMW injects some artificial engine noises into the cabin, but we mostly ignored them, and they can be turned down or shut off completely via the touchscreen’s Active Sound Design settings.
Holds the road better, too
Promised improvements in handling have also panned out for the X3, which beat the 2022 in our skidpad tests. All trims feature a more rigid body, a wider rear track, and revised double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle suspensions. Our SUV also came with the $2,200 M Sport package, which adds variable sport steering and stiffer springs and dampers, among other features. A set of somewhat aggressive Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 tires was also included.
Thus equipped, our X3 also outpaced the GLC300 AWD. The differences aren’t huge, but the BMW was capable of a higher average lateral g, 0.92 g to the Mercedes’ 0.87. In our racetrack-aping figure-eight test, the X3 was quicker and dug in longer on average, 25.8 seconds at 0.72 g compared to 26.7 seconds at 0.71 g.
What this means for owners is that the X330 is a hoot to drive. It took us a few moments to set up a preferred configuration (six steps through the touchscreen), but once we had everything dialed in the experience was worth it. With Sport mode engaged, power delivery is smooth, and gearshifts are snappy. We dig the way BMW tuned this transmission, upshifting at redline, downshifting under braking, and maintaining an optimal gear around the skidpad.
Like so many vehicles these days, not much feedback comes through the X3’s steering wheel, but the M Sport rack makes steering feel very direct. Chassis balance was good, with the all-wheel-drive system putting the power down efficiently.
As for braking, the 2025’s best stop is a foot shorter than the 2022 and the GLC. Pedal feel was initially a little soft, but the travel was short, bite was easy to discern, and the X3’s body exhibited very little dive in panic stops.
The X3 life
The previous-generation X3 already offered more cargo space than the GLC300, and the new model builds on its lead. Another 2.8 cubic feet of standard cargo capacity now puts the trunk at 31.5 cubes, while max volume (rear seats down) grows from 62.7 to 67.1 cubic feet. The GLC’s measurements are 21.9 and 56.3 cubic feet.
The updated cabin’s styling is — different. We love the new curved screen, which marries the SUV’s configurable 12.3-inch driver display and 14.9-inch infotainment interface in one frame. The design is somewhat minimalist, moving many of the physical controls from the SUV’s center stack into the touchscreen. We were less enthused about the interior’s new vent controls, which seem to needlessly rethink more conventional ways of controlling airflow. And the new ambient lighting is definitely not subtle.
As this model is from the more accessible end of the lineup, standard niceties are somewhat limited, but our test vehicle had the $3,400 Premium package. This brings in features like a head-up display, heated steering wheel, remote engine start and a panoramic roof. The pack also features BMW’s Travel and Comfort System, which outfits the front seat backs with a socket for installing conveniences like a tablet holder, foldout table and clothes hook. Finally, Premium package–equipped X3s get Active Driving Assistant Professional, which comes with adaptive cruise control, and Parking Assistant Professional self-parking to supplement the small amount of standard driver assists, namely forward collision mitigation, active blind-spot detection, lane keep assist and Automated Parking Assistant.
The sum-up
Our X3’s $10,200 in options brought its as-tested price to $61,325. A similarly equipped 2025 GLC300 4Matic rings up at a pricier $66,050. Turns out, that’s another thing this Bimmer has going for it: It’s the more affordable of these SUVs from prestige brands. Even the X3’s base price is $1,275 lower than the GLC AWD’s (Mercedes does offer a rear-wheel-drive entry-level variant that’s less expensive, but BMW has dropped its sDrive RWD model).
Most people who choose the 2025 X3 30 xDrive will be happy with their purchase. With improved efficiency and a bigger cargo hold compared to the outgoing model, it’s a more practical choice. The new curved screen is among the best parts of the redone interior. There’s plenty of performance to be had for driving fans, too, especially if you tick the box for the available M Sport package.
Some of the risks in design BMW took on the inside of this SUV might take some time to get used to. A few more standard driver assists would be nice, too, especially for this kind of coin. We’re generally bullish on the new X3, though, a sensible small luxury SUV that fulfills the BMW promise.
Photos by Brian Vance