BMW X3: The fourth generation

After recently introducing the new generation of the 1 Series, the Bavarians are now following up and presenting the new X3. For BMW, the SUV has been one of the most important models for 20 years and, according to the company, was the brand’s best-selling vehicle in 2023. The fourth generation now presents itself with new design approaches and proportions typical of the X-series. The front of the vehicle is steep and has large BMW kidney grilles. Inside there is now a new structure made of vertical and diagonal bars. LED contour lighting is optionally available. The redesigned lights extend from the flanks upwards towards the hood and now have L-shaped daytime running light signatures. Adaptive LED headlights with glare-free matrix high beam, city and cornering lights as well as blue design elements are optionally available. As is known from the Bavarians, the new X3 also has a long hood and a pronounced rear. This is visually emphasized by pronounced side skirts and a roof line that extends far into the rear. The wide rear wheel arches make the rear appear particularly wide, and a long roof spoiler conveys a sporty look. With the exception of the BMW X3 M50 xDrive, all model variants have exhaust tailpipes that are invisibly integrated into the rear apron. The reinterpretation of the characteristic T-shaped graphic and a satin-finished crossbar with integrated indicators contribute to the modern appearance of the rear lights.

The X3 is getting bigger

The external dimensions of the new X3 have increased. The SUV is 34 millimeters longer than the previous model and has a total length of 5.76 meters. The width has grown by 29 millimeters to 1.92 meters. The height is now 25 millimeters lower and measures 1.66 meters. In terms of luggage space, the X3 has 570 liters of luggage with the rear seats up. If you fold them down, up to 1,700 liters are possible. An electrically retractable trailer hitch is available as an option. The maximum permissible trailer load is up to 2,500 kilograms, depending on the model variant.

New interior concept

As with all new models, BMW has installed its so-called “curved display” for the digital instruments, the infotainment system including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration and all other vehicle functions. The system is also designed for music and video streaming or gaming. The lavish LED light strips and the two-spoke steering wheel with a flattened bottom are particularly striking. The front area in the door panel is also new. The door openers, function buttons, ventilation controls and air outlets are flush here, surrounded by the ambient lighting. Electrically adjustable and heated sports seats with surfaces and upholstery made of secondary material are standard.

Where did the iX3 go?

While the engine range is electrified across the board, surprisingly the new X3 is no longer offered as a fully electric iX3. BMW is currently developing a completely independent electric SUV in the X3 format, which will take this place in the future. In return, the plug-in hybrid unit now has a significantly increased range. In the X3 30e xDrive, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine is coupled with an electric motor, which is integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. This results in a system output of 299 hp and a maximum range of up to 90 kilometers. The top model is the X3 M50 xDrive with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder with M TwinPower Turbo and 48-volt mild hybrid technology. With 398 hp, the SUV sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. All other petrol and diesel engines (X3 20 xDrive with 208 hp and X3 20d xDrive with 197 hp) are also consistently electrified. The automatic transmission with shift paddles is always on board as standard. BMW also offers a wide range of systems for partially autonomous driving and parking.

The new X3 will be launched in the fourth quarter of 2024 and will be manufactured at the BMW Group plant in Spartanburg in the USA and Rosslyn in South Africa. Prices are still under wraps. Only the price of the X3 20 xDrive has been revealed: This will start at 57,900 euros, which is 2,000 euros more than the current X3 xDrive20i.