Fourth generation BMW X3 gets new design, new engines



New four- and six-cylinder engines
get 48V mild hybrid technology

    
(June 19, 2024) WOODCLIFF, N.J.  — Boasting greater sporting appeal, visual impact, and versatility than ever, the all-new 2025 BMW X3 retains its place as the dynamic choice for everyday use, weekend adventures, and cross-country journeys. A new design language gives the fourth generation of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) for the premium midsize segment much enhanced exterior presence and an aura of dynamic grace. 


High-quality materials, a more generous standard specification, advanced digitalization and the new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect based on BMW Operating System 9 set the tone for the premium ambience inside the progressively designed cabin. Driving pleasure, safety, and long-distance comfort in the new BMW X3 also all benefit from the precise powertrain and chassis tuning and a wide selection of semi-automated driving and parking systems.

The new BMW X3 heralds major improvements in efficiency and dynamic performance to both the 4-cylinder and high-performance 6-cylinder variants, and these changes coincide with a change to the model designations. The two models will be badged BMW X3 30 xDrive and BMW X3 M50 xDrive, thereby dropping the letter “i” from the model name that previously indicated fuel injection. In future, the letter “i” will only be used in the names of all-electric BMW models.

The all-new 2025 BMW X3’s aura of modernity and enhanced product substance provide the ideal basis for adding another chapter to the BMW X3 success story — one that first began 20 years ago. Since first establishing the SAV segment in the premium midsize class, it has been instrumental in the steady growth in popularity of the BMW X models and, indeed, became the brand’s best-selling model in 2023.

The new BMW X3 will be built for the U.S. market at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg, S. C., using a production process focused on conserving resources and circularity. Its market launch will get underway in the fourth quarter of 2024.

The BMW X3 30 xDrive starts at $50,675 including destination charge and the BMW X3 M50 xDrive  starts at $65,275.

The foundations for an emotionally intoxicating driving experience in the BMW tradition were laid by the consistent upgrades made to the inline 6-cylinder engine from BMW’s latest modular generation. The 3.0-liter engine shines with extremely rapid power delivery, a strong appetite for revs, and remarkably low fuel consumption and emissions relative to its power.

The engine in the new BMW X3 M50 xDrive (designated B58B30M2) is one of the first to benefit from the new Efficient Dynamics Next technology package. Among the highlights are the Miller combustion cycle, redesigned intake ports and combustion chamber geometry, and changes to the injection system, ignition system, exhaust gas routing, and camshaft timing.

The package contains developments including switchable exhaust-side rocker arms and eVANOS electrically controlled camshaft adjustment. Among the engine’s M-specific highlights are a new, extremely robust crankshaft drive, an optimized system of oil supply for the pistons with cooling channels, and new main bearing shells and caps. Its M TwinPower Turbo technology has been upgraded by increasing the performance of the turbocharging system and indirect charge air cooling at the same time as introducing dual injection for mixture preparation as a function of load point.

The engine and the 48V hybrid system combine to achieve a total system output of 393 hp between 5,200 and 6,250 rpm and peak torque of 428 lb-ft between 1,800 and 4,800 rpm. The 48V mild hybrid technology in the form of a crankshaft-mounted starter generator helps to deliver instantaneous response to every movement of the accelerator and to optimize efficiency.



The 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder unit (designated B48B20O2) found under the hood of the BMW X3 30 xDrive boasts instantaneous power delivery, a healthy appetite for revs, and exemplary efficiency. Beyond the adoption of 48V mild hybrid technology, this is mostly the result of extensive upgrades to the core engine. The array of innovations includes the Miller cycle (which shortens the opening time of the intake valves), redesigned intake ports and combustion chambers, and an ignition system featuring an active coil with integrated electronics.

The new power unit generates maximum output of 255 hp  between 4,700 and 6,500 rpm and peak torque of 295 lb-ft at 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. This enables the new BMW X3 30 xDrive to accelerate to 60 mph from rest in six seconds flat.

A new design language for the exterior gives the fourth generation of the BMW X3 an almost monolithic overall appearance with distinctive BMW X model proportions. Generously proportioned surfaces combine with just a few crisply defined lines to produce a clearly structured exterior design that has been reduced to the essentials. The new BMW X3 is 1.3 inches longer than its predecessor at 187.2 inches overall, while width has increased by 1.1 inches to 75.6 inches. Together with the 1-inch drop in vehicle height to 65.4 inches and the wider tracks, this produces a very powerful and sporty look.

The large BMW kidney grille in the upright front end of the new BMW X3 exudes an air of assured presence. A new intermal structure for the grille composed of vertically and diagonally arranged bars, adds a fresh touch. The BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting – standard on X3 M50 xDrive, optional on X3 30 xDrive – forms a continuous line around each element of the grille.

The daytime driving lights, side marker lights, and turn signal indicators in the LED headlights are now all produced by L-shaped, overlapping light sources. Full LED Headlights with cornering light functions, plus blue design detailing, are optionally available, as are M Shadowline lights.