2025 BMW X3 xDrive30i: The Brand’s Compact Hybrid-Like Crossover Wears A New Design

Highlight: According to fueleconomy.gov, the all-new mild hybrid powertrain has a driving range near 500 miles on a full tank of gas.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $60,875 (Base Model): $50,675

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: air bags; ABS; AWD; a rear camera; automatic high beam headlights; a stability control system; a hill descent control system; spare tire; a blind spot detection system; a forward collision mitigation system; a lane keep assist system; and a tire pressure monitor system

Standard Equipment (Base X3 xDrive30i): 19-inch wheels; AWD; leather-like seating; a host of driving modes; wireless device driving; power folding heated side mirrors; a dual zone climate control system; a keyless entry system; heated front seats with lumbar support; a manual operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; a cargo cover; and a power tailgate

Options: special exterior paint; a co-pilot driver’s assist package; 21-inch wheels; a parking assist package; and ventilated front seats

Other Trims:

M50 xDrive

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 12-speaker AM/FM/HD with SiriusXM

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Apple/Android Connectivity: Standard

Powertrain Warranty:  4 year or 50,000 miles

Engine/Horsepower: a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder twin turbo/255-horsepower (test model)

Towing: N/A

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage: 27-city/33-hwy

What’s New: For the 2025 model year, the compact X3, which is powered by new powertrains, is all-new inside and out.

Why:

20-inch wheels available

A new sculpted-like modern exterior design

Longer and wider than the outgoing model

The signature grille seems fitting for the vehicle

A new hybrid-like powertrain offers slightly more horsepower

More MPG than the previous model

All-wheel drive

A variety of driving modes

Mood setting adjustments for the interior

The new design is larger and roomier

New curved digital cluster and infotainment screen

In-vehicle entertainment available

Front driver and passenger seat provides leg extensions

A crystal-clear optional audio system

Leather available

A co-pilot assist steering system with a stop-and-go traffic feature

HUD (Heads up display) available

A parallel and perpendicular parking assist feature is available

USB ports

Wireless charging

Roof rails available

A more performance oriented M trim is available with a 6-cylinder engine

A panoramic roof available with a sky view

Heated steering available

An optional ant-theft interior recording camera is available

A remote starting smartphone application is available

A remote parking assistant system is available

An optional recycle fabric instrument panel is available

But: 

No rear wheel drive available

No covered centered storage armrest with new design to store keys and other items

Keyless access doesn’t unlock and lock rear doors; its designed for front doors only

Pricey with options

Verdict: The fourth-generation German engineered compact crossover is all-new. The X3, which is only available in an AWD configuration, offers a more mature cleaner design for the 2025 model year.

The five-seater X3, which is slightly longer and wider, is also powered by a new 4-cylinder mild hybrid powertrain. This new 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder powertrain equates to a boost in horsepower, more MPG and an enhanced driving range than the outgoing model. And for those seeking a sportier drive and appearance, they can opt for the optional M Sport trim. This package offers many of the features offered in the more performance-oriented M model minus the cost one will need to dole out for the larger engine.

Furthermore, the X3 receives an interior overhaul which is quite noticeable. From the high-tech curved instrument panel and infotainment system to the flat bottom steering wheel to the new starter toggle ignition switch, BMW has made strides in this area, giving the vehicle a more premium appearance.

Lastly, while the X3 offers such standard and optional features as the co-pilot assist driving for both highway cruising and parking to enhance the overall driving experience for those yarning for the same features as the larger X5, but without having to step up to the price of entry required for access. There are alternatives in the market, which provide more horsepower and content for those willing to forego the driving dynamics that can only be found in a BMW. 

Competition: Acura RDX; Audi Q5;Genesis G70; Lexus NX and Mercedes-Benz GLC