Strong Points
- Improved efficiency
- Even better handle
- Large cargo hold
Cons
- You need to get used to interior styling
- Some important features embedded in the touchscreen
- Standard driver assist sting
The name change and updated styling aren’t just differences between the redesigned 2025 BMW X3 30 XDRIVE. Under the larger body of the Compact SUV, the bones have been improved that show that BMW is still interested in providing an exciting driving experience. The entry-level X3 is more practical than the previous model.
The outgoing X3 offered a solid combination of usefulness, comfort and fun, but it’s a bit slower for the segment and some rivals are better value. Is the latest base model improved with equations? How does it stack up with one of our major competitors, Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class SUVs?
Hybrid Boost Good – Reason 1: Fuel Efficiency
Most X3 viewers should appreciate the substantial bumps in efficiency that come with the now mild hybrid 2.0 liter turbocharged inline 4 engine. Previously, the crossover was rated as a city/highway of 21/28 mpg, but the new version had jumped to 27/33 mpg. That’s big. Without changing the capacity of the 17.2 gallon fuel tank, the X3 can go 499 miles, more than 47 miles than before.
More importantly, it is to change the tables of rivals like the Mercedes GLC300 more efficiently. The 2025 version of the Mercedes Benz returns 23/31 mpg and has a slightly larger tank (17.4 gallons), but the GLC’s 452-mile range chases the BMW.
New speed – Reason 2: Hybrid is a good boost
Updated X3 30 BMW 0-60 mph estimates are recorded on the test track. 6.0 seconds, 0.4 seconds faster than the 2022 model I tested. However, the added Grant is not enough to keep up with a healthy 148 pound GLC. This allows for the same 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It also uses a 2.0-liter turbo fore with a mild hybrid boost of 48 volts, and the system contributes up to 23 hp and relatively gargantuan148 lb-ft of torque. The BMW setup offers just 11 hp and 18 lb-ft.
Still, the X3’s power is right, easily blending into quick moving interstate traffic, groaning enough to perform most of the through moves. The BMW injects some artificial engine noise into the cabin, but we almost ignore them and can completely down or shut off via the active sound design settings on the touchscreen.
Keep the road better
The X3’s handling improvements have also been promised, winning the SkidPad test in 2022. All trims feature a stiffer body, wider rear track, modified double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle suspension. The SUV also comes with a 2,200m sports package, adding a variety of sports steering and stiff springs and dampers. It also includes a slightly aggressive set of Goodyear Eagle F1 asymmetric 6 tires.
The X3 equipped in this way also surpasses the GLC300 AWD. The difference isn’t that big, but BMW had an average outer g of 0.92g versus Mercedes’ 0.87. In the Figure 8 test of RaceTrack-Aping, the X3 was faster on average, digging in 25.8 seconds at 0.72 g, but at 26.7 seconds at 0.71 g.
What this means for the owner is that the X330 is enthusiastic about driving. It took me a bit of time to set up the configuration I like (6 steps from the touchscreen), but once everything was dialed it was worth it. When Sport Mode engages, power delivery is smooth and gear shifts are sharp. Digs how BMW adjusts this transmission, upshifts with Redline, downshifts under braking, and maintains optimal gear around the SkidPad.
Like many vehicles these days, there is no much feedback through the X3’s steering wheel, but the M-Sport Rack makes the steering feel very directly. The chassis was well balanced, and the all-wheel drive system effectively disrupts power.
As for braking, the best stops of 2025 are shorter legs than the 2022 and GLC. The pedal felt a little soft at first, but the trip was short and easy to chew, so X3’s body barely jumped in with panic stops.
The Life of X3
The previous generation X3 already offers more cargo space than the GLC300, and the new model is based on leads. An additional 2.8 cubic feet of standard cargo capacity will bring the trunk to 31.5 cubic cubes, with maximum volume (rear seat) growing from 62.7 to 67.1 cubic ft. GLC measurements are 21.9 and 56.3 cubic feet.
The updated cabin styling is different. I love the new curved screen that 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 much of the physical controls from the SUV’s center stack to the touchscreen. We weren’t very enthusiastic about new ventilation controls for the interior. And the new ambient lighting is definitely not subtle.
The standard Niceties are somewhat limited as this model comes from the more accessible end of the lineup, but the test vehicle had a premium $3,400 package. This brings features like a head-up display, a heated steering wheel, remote engine start, and a panoramic roof. The pack also features BMW’s Travel and Comfort System, with front seats equipped with sockets for convenient installation such as tablet holders, folding tables and clothing hooks. Finally, the X3S with the premium package will win an active driving assistant professional. It comes with adaptive cruise control, and Parking Assistant Professional Self-Packing complements small amounts of standard driver assistance: forward collision mitigation, active blind spot detection, lane keep assist and automatic parking assistant.
total
The X3’s $10,200 option put the price tested at $61,325. The similarly equipped 2025 GLC300 4Matic ring goes up for a more expensive $66,050. After all, that’s another thing this Bimmer is doing. This is the affordable price for these SUVs from the Prestige brand. Even the X3’s base price is $1,275 less than the GLC AWD (Mercedes offers an entry-level variant of cheaper rear-wheel drive, while BMW has removed the SDRIVE RWD model).
2025 x3 30 Most people who choose xdrive are happy with their purchase. It’s more practical choice with improved efficiency and greater cargo hold compared to outgoing models. The new curved screen is the best part of the Redone interior. It also has enough performance to drive the fan, especially when checking boxes on available M Sport packages.
Some of the risks of the design BMW has incorporated inside this SUV can take some time to get used to. Some more standard driver assists would be good, especially for this type of coin. But we’re generally bullish about the new X3, but it’s a wise little luxury SUV that will fulfill BMW’s promises.
Photo by Brian Vance
