BMW X3

Where the X3 fits

BMW calls its SUVs "Sports Activity Vehicles", and the X3 slots below the X5 and above the BMW X1, with the coupé-styled BMW X4 as its sister model and the larger BMW X6 as the X5's coupé counterpart. It is based on BMW 3 Series engineering, and its precursor was the xActivity concept shown in Detroit in early 2003. The BMW catalogue lists the whole range.

First generation E83 (2003–2010)

Premiered at the Frankfurt show in September 2003, the E83 shared its rear suspension with the 3 Series and had permanent xDrive all-wheel drive with a default 40:60 front-to-rear split. Magna Steyr in Graz built every first-generation X3, and the 500,000th car left the line on 18 June 2008. Engines ranged from a 2.0 petrol with 110 kW to the 3.0sd (later xDrive35d) twin-turbo diesel with 210 kW and 580 Nm, which reached 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds. Euro NCAP tested it in 2008.

Second generation F25 (2010–2017)

Shown at the 2010 Paris Motor Show and built from 1 September 2010, the F25 moved production to Spartanburg, South Carolina, and grew in size and quality. The next section looks at it closely.

Third generation G01 (2017–2024)

Revealed in June 2017 and designed by Calvin Luk, the G01 was up to 55 kg lighter than its predecessor and used the 8-speed automatic only. It added the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid with up to 210 kW (282 hp) system output. Performance versions were the M40i with 285 kW (387 PS), the M40d with 235 kW (320 PS) and, for the first time, a full X3 M with up to 375 kW (510 PS). The electric iX3, built in China from September 2020, has a 210 kW (286 PS) rear motor, an 80 kWh battery, about 460 km of WLTP range and 150 kW DC charging. A facelift in mid-2021 brought new lights and a 12.3-inch screen; ANCAP rated it five stars with 93% for adult protection in 2017.

Fourth generation G45 (2024 to today)

The G45 was unveiled on 19 June 2024 and went on sale in Europe and North America in late 2024. The M50 is the most powerful combustion version, no X3 M is planned, and a long-wheelbase version (G48) is sold only in China. From 2025 it is sold alongside the new electric iX3 based on BMW's Neue Klasse architecture.

The F25 in detail (2010–2017)

Design and the 2014 facelift

The F25 looked more upmarket than the E83, with a longer bonnet, pronounced wheel arches and a horizontal tail. It was the first X3 with an optional rear-drive version (sDrive, from 2012). BMW presented the facelift at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2014, for the 2015 model year. It brought twin round headlights joined to the kidney grille with optional LED, new bumpers, mirrors with integrated indicators and a new centre console with high-gloss trim. New options included the xLine package and a Smart Opener that opens the electric tailgate with a foot movement under the bumper.

Engines and gearboxes

Gearboxes are a 6-speed manual or the ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic. All diesels met Euro 6 from June 2014. The facelifted xDrive20d uses about 5 L/100 km (47 mpg US) on the official combined cycle. In 2015 a report claimed that an X3 20d exceeded Euro 6 NOx limits in real driving; BMW denied the claim on 24 September 2015.

xDrive, chassis and driving modes

xDrive uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch that varies the split between the axles. The front suspension uses double-joint struts and the rear a multi-link axle, with ventilated discs all round. Optional Performance Control sends up to 80% of torque rearwards and brakes the inside rear wheel in corners. Driving Dynamics Control offers Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ settings for damping, throttle, gearshifts and steering.

Dimensions and boot space

The split rear seat backs fold separately or together, and the cabin has lockable storage, large door bins and three full rear seats.

Safety and assistance systems

Euro NCAP awarded the F25 five stars in 2011, with 88% for adult occupants, 83% for child occupants, 53% for pedestrians and 71% for safety assist. Optional Driving Assistant combined lane departure warning with collision and pedestrian warning and city braking. Active cruise control with Stop&Go worked between 30 and 210 km/h. The options list also included a head-up display, a surround-view camera system, a parking assistant for parallel spaces and adaptive LED headlights with anti-dazzle high beam.

Rivals: how the X3 compares

The X3 competes with the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC (formerly GLK), Volvo XC60, Porsche Macan and Jaguar F-Pace, and in its early years with mainstream SUVs such as the Hyundai Santa Fe. Its strengths are rear-biased handling, strong six-cylinder and diesel engines and a large boot; its weaknesses are a firm ride on large wheels and expensive options.