BMW has revealed the all-new fourth-generation X3 SUV, which rides on a new platform, has new looks inside and out, and boasts a long list of features. The new X3 will also be the basis for an all-electric version, the iX3, which will be available globally next year.
BMW X3: Design and Features
The new BMW X3 also inherits the brand’s new nomenclature, dropping the ‘i’ suffix from xDrive30i and switching the number placements, resulting in 30 xDrive. This suggests that the new BMW iX3, previewed by the Vision Neue Klasse X concept, will have the “i” as a prefix.
The new X3 is now longer and broader than its predecessor, and it features several new design cues, including a few elements borrowed from the latest-generation BMW X1. The new-look large-format kidney grille, which is illuminated on the premium M50 xDrive (and optional on the basic 30 xDrive), is identical to those found on the new 7 Series, the XM flagship SUV, and the future 5 Series LWB in India. The new X3’s grille has slats that are inclined in some variations, but in the top-spec M50 variant, they are horizontally positioned.
Other design highlights include new-look headlamps with L-shaped daytime running lamps and 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 20-inch and 21-inch alloy wheels available as options.
On the inside, the X3 has BMW’s curved display and iDrive 9 infotainment system, which was initially seen on the existing X1. It also features newly designed heated sports seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and BMW’s innovative woven fabric instrument panel, which will be available in MY2025 cars.
BMW X3: Powertrain
The X3 20 xDrive boasts a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and a mild hybrid system, producing 208 hp and 330 Nm of torque. This allows it to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 7.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 215 kph. The 20d xDrive, on the other hand, is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine with a mild-hybrid system that produces 197 hp and 400 Nm of peak torque combined. The entry-level diesel goes from 0 to 100kph in 7.7 seconds.
BMW will also offer the X3 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid, which combines the 190hp 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with an 184 hp electric motor to produce a total output of 300 hp and 450 Nm. The 30e sprints to 100kph in 6.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 215 kph. However, in EV mode, the plug-in hybrid SUV can reach 140 kph and has a range of up to 90 km (WLTP).
The top specifications The BMW X3 boasts a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine that produces 398hp and 580 Nm of torque, propelling the SUV to 100kph in 4.6 seconds from a standstill. With the optional performance tyres, it has an electronically limited peak speed of 250 kph. When fitted with normal all-season rubber, the X3 M50 xDrive has a top speed of 210 kph. All engine options have AWD and BMW’s 8-speed automatic transmission as standard.
BMW X3: India launch details
We expect the new X3 to arrive in India by the end of this year or early next year. Key competitors will include the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Audi Q5, among others. BMW India is preparing to launch the new 5 Series LWB in our market.
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