First Drive: 2025 BMW X3 Proves Sporty and Sophisticated

The cabin looks crafted for use in a sci-fi movie, with its large, curved display and dramatic lighting. That screen houses the latest iteration of BMW’s infotainment system, dubbed iDrive 9. (Yes, they are keeping the “i” there.) It brings numerous enhancements and added connectivity, with features like the navigation system using augmented reality to show directions via a head-up display. 

The base price creeps up, putting the latest version of BMW’s popular model over $50,000, with the destination charge raised to $1,175. (It was at $995 for all models for a long time.) In fairness, a look at the spec sheet reveals that the standard equipment list has grown far more than the price tag. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version is expected to join the ranks in the future.

Like the previous two generations, the new X3 is built in Spartanburg, S.C. 

The base price for the X3 30 xDrive we purchased was $49,500, but options rapidly pushed the sticker to $56,860. The main culprit was the Premium Package, which cost $3,400 and included a panoramic roof, curved screen, head-up display, interior camera, Active Driving Assistant Pro, heated steering wheel, and remote engine start. 

If you’re a Consumer Reports member, our initial expert assessment of the BMW X3 is available to you below. We completed 2,000 break-in miles and are now putting the X3 through more than 50 tests at the CR Auto Test Center, including empirical measurements of acceleration, braking, handling, car-seat fit, and usability. CR members will have access to the full road-test results as soon as they’re available.

If you haven’t signed up to be a member yet, click below and become a member to access this full article and all our exclusive ratings and reviews for each vehicle we buy and test. 

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What we bought: 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive 
Powertrain: 255-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine; 8-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive 
MSRP: $49,500
Options: Premium Package ($3,400), Driving Assistance Pro Package ($1,700), Dark Graphite Metallic ($650), all-weather floor mats ($235), Parking Assistance Package ($200).
Destination fee: $1,175
Total cost: $56,860