BMW X3 2025

The BMW X3 first crossed the Atlantic in 2004, becoming one of the first small SUVs to wear a prestigious badge. In its wake were launched models that are now essential like the Acura RDX, Mercedes-Benz GLC (formerly GLK), Lexus NX, and Audi Q5, the best-selling nameplate in the segment in Quebec.

These vehicles are just the tip of an iceberg that has steadily grown over the three previous generations of the X3, each lasting seven years. With the pace of evolution in design, user interfaces, and driver assistance systems, the most up-to-date products often achieve the most success. The new version of BMW's Quebec bestseller didn't arrive a moment too soon.

The manufacturer has clearly focused on streamlining the X3's appearance, both inside and out. It has also succumbed to the trend of the long rectangular module that covers two-thirds of the dashboard and consolidates almost all functions into a pair of side-by-side screens. New driver and parking assistance features are also available.

The mechanical changes are more subtle, primarily affecting the suspension and steering. The two available gasoline engines remain the same, with the addition of a 48-volt electric architecture that acts as a mild hybrid system when the vehicle is stopped. Also notable is the absence, at least for 2025, of the plug-in hybrid powertrain offered by the previous generation.

In terms of pricing, the inevitable increase is $4,540 for the "base" four-cylinder model, which crosses the symbolic $60,000 mark with a price tag of $62,815 (including transport, preparation, and administration fees). The six-cylinder version costs no less than $79,015, or $5,440 more than in 2024. That's not counting the numerous packages and individual options. The result: on a four-year lease, you can't get any lower than $1,000 per month, including taxes and fees, unless you negotiate very hard.

Like the two previous models, this one comes from South Carolina, where BMW builds all of its utility vehicles except the X1, X2, and iX.

"You're paying for the name" is a regular quip when you buy a luxury vehicle. This is probably partly true, but in the case of the X3, the badges hide a lot of substance. Powerful, surprisingly frugal, rock-solid, meticulously crafted, and remarkably stable, the Bavarian compact SUV exceeds all expectations in terms of pure competence.

However, it lacks conviction in an aspect previously inseparable from any BMW: pure driving pleasure. Scalpel-precise steering is good, but it's even better when it allows you to become one with the road. With the redesigned X3, you really have to push the throttle to get that kind of feeling. The increased complexity of the controls, as comprehensive and spectacular as they may be, often distracts from the road...

This reinforces the need to shop among the X3's vast array of rivals. Many of them offer the same kind of experience for less money, while a few emphasize the "driving" aspect of the equation, sometimes at the expense of a certain practicality. And if you don't care about prestige, don't hesitate to consider a "popular" brand like Mazda, whose most luxurious versions are closer to the upper segment, at a much more affordable price.

Watch our complete video review (in French with YouTube-embedded English subtitles)

Safety features

• Antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist
• Stability and traction control
• Hill-start assist
• Front airbags
• Airbag between the front seats
• Front side airbags
• Side curtain airbags
• Front seatbelt pretensioners
• Five adjustable head restraints
• Rearview camera
• Tire pressure monitor
• Forward collision alert
• Forward automatic emergency braking with cross-traffic detection
• Lane departure alert with steering assist
• Evasive steering assist
• Automatic high-beams
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring with automatic steering assist
• Rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Lane centering assist, adaptive cruise control and surround-view monitor (included in Premium and Driving Assistant Professional optional packages)
• Rear cross-traffic alert (included in Driving Assistant Professional optional packages)

Crash test results

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Insurance Institute For Highway Safety