When the first X5 was introduced in 1999, I think there are few that would have guessed that BMWs lineup of SUVs would grow to encompass eight models—from the X1 to the XM—and 19 total trim options. It’s more models and trims than some entire car companies, and it can be confusing to navigate all of them. But I think I’ve figured out which one is best: the X3 M50 xDrive.
Now in its fourth generation, the 2025 X3 is all-new, with updated engines and a more modern interior than its predecessor. The biggest for the 2025 X3 is the exterior design, which takes a lot of design cues from the all-electric iX. BMW describes the design as “almost monolithic.” The front-end is the most obvious change, but thankfully the X3 grille is a lot less awkward looking than the one on the iX. As expected, the new model is longer (by 1.3 inches) and wider (by 1.1 inches) than the previous X3, but it’s also lower (by one inch). At 4,535 lbs, it also weighs more.
The new X3 M50 xDrive looks great in Vegas Red Metallic. Photo: David Haueter
The updated twin-turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine under the hood of the new X3 M50 xDrive is fantastic. It now features the 48V hybrid system, which consists of a crankshaft-mounted starter generator that delivers more responsiveness and quells turbo lag. Power output on the X3 M50 xDrive is up to 393hp and 428 lb-ft of torque, and 60mph comes in 4.4 seconds if you use all of it. That’s only around a half-second behind the 503 hp X4 M Competition Package., which brings up another change in direction with this model.
You’ll notice that the X3 M50 xDrive has dual exhaust pipes that are very reminiscent of the shape of full-on M models, like the previous X3 M. This is intentional, as BMW says in the press release that it’s “a nod to the position of the new X3 M50 xDrive.” That makes it sound like there will be no X3 M model coming with this generation, which makes sense considering the performance level that the X3 M50 xDrive has reached. That said, we can’t rule out a full M version in the future.
Quad exhaust with round tips is a nod to M models. Photo: David Haueter
Adding to the M-ness of the X3 M50 xDrive are the Adaptive M Sport suspension, M Sport brakes, an M Sport differential on the rear axle and 20-inch wheels, all of which come standard on this model. If you look closely, you’ll also notice the kidney grill has horizontal bars, which is traditionally a design element of the full M versions. You can also get the X3 M50 xDrive with either all-season or performance tires, and our test model was equipped with Goodyear Eagle F1 rubber.
Other notable updates to the X3 M50 xDrive that enhance performance are increased body rigidity, a wider rear track, and modifications to the double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle that BMW says increases precision when turning into corners. A 19 percent increase in the caster offset of the steering axles is also said to improve straight-line stability.
The new X3 cockpit is minimalistic and modern but is easy to adapt to and has a lot of practical touches. Photo: David Haueter
Settling into the driver’s seat, the minimalistic interior of the new X3 becomes obvious; there are few buttons and the big screen across the dash dominates everything and houses nearly every function. The good thing is that everything is very intuitive and easy to adapt to, though it may take time and practice to remember where everything is in the iDrive menu. Once you do figure it out, you can customize the main screen to make the features you use most often easier to access.
There’s a lot of practicality built into the interior, and some thoughful touches. I really like the panoramic moonroof and there’s a lot of storage options in the doors and center console. There’s also a decent amount of storage in the rear with the back seats down. I was able to fit my mountain bike without taking the front wheel off, which was definitely a surprise, and with the back seats up there’s good leg and head room for passengers. And the front seats are supportive and comfortable. It’s a nice place to spend some time.
The twin-turbocharged 3-liter inline-six makes 393hp in the X3 M50 and is one of the best engines in the world right now. Photo: David Haueter
The X3 M50 xDrive is quiet, fast and comfortable on the highway, and the ride quality in Comfort mode seems to be more compliant than in previous models. Being comfortable on the highway is expected in an SUV, but the new X3 really impresses on a back road. Over the generations, the X3 has always been competent, but the new M50 xDrive raises that ability to another level.
Perhaps it’s the wider track or the improved suspension kinematics, but this new X3 is nimble and fun to drive. It feels very precise and planted with a lot of grip when you turn into corners and body control is fantastic for being as heavy as it is. It really drives more like a sports sedan than an SUV. The engine and transmission work in perfect harmony and the brakes felt strong. That said, like most BMWs the brakes are a bit overboosted, but you quickly get used to how much pressure you should apply in different situations.
My week with the X3 M50 xDrive was cut short by a non-repairable flat tire, but to fill the week out BMW loaned me an X3 30 xDrive. That made for an interesting comparison.
The new X3 30 xDrive has a lot less horsepower than the M50 model but is still fun to drive and more economical. Dune Grey Metallic is a new paint color. Photo: David Haueter
The X3 30 xDrive is powered by the two-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that’s in other models like the 330i and 530i and makes 255hp compared to the M50’s 393hp. It’s not as exciting to have a four-cylinder under the hood, but the X3 30 is plenty quick for a daily driver SUV and pulls strongly after some initial turbo lag, getting to 60mph in a very respectable six seconds. It’s also more efficient with fuel economy (33mpg on the highway) and is still fun to drive on back roads, though you can’t power out of corner exits like you can with the M50. In terms of design, I’m not a fan of the grille of the X3 30 xDrive with its mix of diagonal and vertical bars, but if you order it with the M Sport package ($2,200), the grill is blacked out. You can also order the X3 30 xDrive with Dynamic Damper Control ($550) and get it with performance tires. The base price is $50,900, a pretty substantial savings compared to the X3 M50 xDrive’s $65,900 cost of entry.
Still, I would pick the X3 M50 xDrive as the best all-around SUV in the BMW lineup. It has a great blend of performance and practicality and blurs the lines between sports sedan and SUV. It’s the model to get if you really want an M3 but need something more practical with usable space, and it has what is probably the best six-cylinder engine in the world under its hood. But if you’re just looking for a fun to drive SUV that’s not necessarily going to be driven like a sports car, the X3 30 xDrive is also a great choice. BMW did a really nice job with both of these new SUVs.
