With 350,000 units delivered in 2023, the outgoing X3 was the best-selling BMW. Although it’s been around since 2017, the luxury crossover has proven more popular than the quintessential 3 Series sedan. The German premium brand isn’t resting on its laurels as a replacement model is just weeks away to be officially revealed.
But first, a little overview. Images of camouflaged prototypes show the plug-in hybrid and M Performance derivatives. The hottest model will feature a quad exhaust system, a feature previously reserved for current M cars. The X1 M35i and X2 M35i were the first M Lite models to adopt the more aggressive configuration, and now the larger, not-quite X3 M, is following suit.
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The high-performance X3 will likely move away from its “M40i” designation to make way for “M50.” Yes, without the “i” at the end. The swanky crossover is rumored to be BMW’s first gasoline model to ditch the last letter, which has been a reference to fuel injection for decades. However, diesels retain the “d” while plug-in hybrids retain the “e”.
Speaking of the electrified model, it won’t be coming to the United States, at least not at first. This is disappointing to hear since BMW says the new X3 (xDrive30e?) will have an upgraded battery with more usable energy for additional electric range.
Known internally by its codename “G45,” the 2025 BMW X3 hides a sleeker body beneath that swirling camouflage. The Bavarian brand has lowered the drag coefficient from 0.29 to 0.27 to improve fuel efficiency. It has a wider track compared to the outgoing “G01” generation, as well as reduced lift at the rear axle. Engineers were able to increase rigidity and adopt improved anti-roll bars for a more engaging ride, without negatively impacting ride comfort.
For an additional cost, the new X3 will be offered with an optional adaptive chassis featuring electronically controlled dampers. Other changes include a more direct steering ratio for greater comfort and the latest safety and driver assistance technologies. BMW is confident that the facelifted X3 will pass all Euro NCAP crash tests with flying colors.
Expect a simplified dashboard layout with just a few conventional buttons. You’ll access most functions via the touchscreen, as seen on almost every other BMW on sale today. Given that the new X1 is much larger than before, with a length of 177.2 inches, it’s likely that the
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A new iX3 is still planned, but it will be significantly different from the X3. Coming next year, the electric vehicle will be underpinned by BMW’s much-hyped Neue Klasse platform. Versions equipped with a combustion engine stick to the proven CLAR bones. The two crossovers will be very different, especially inside where the iX3 will have an all-new dashboard with the tenth generation iDrive.
BMW recently previewed the upcoming iX3 with the Vision Neue Klasse X. The concept had a large central display and no driver display. Instead, a heads-up display stretched from one corner of the windshield to the other. The zero-emission crossover due in 2025 will lose the iDrive dial we talked about earlier. We think it will be roomier than the ICE model thanks to the dedicated EV underpinnings with a stretched wheelbase made possible after shaving off the overhangs. A front trunk has been mentioned, but nothing is official yet.
Meanwhile, the next petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid X3 will arrive in a few weeks and go on sale before the end of the year.
