BMW X3

What is it?

What you see in the photos is the fourth-generation BMW X3 that will come to India in 2025. There’s a sense of familiarity in the overall shape and it comes with BMW’s latest design language that we first saw on the XM and iX SUVs. As expected, the feature list has been upgraded massively bringing it right back among the competition.

How is it on the outside?

As we said, the overall shape is familiar but you can see that the outgoing model’s rounded edges have been chiselled to give it a square stance. Up front, the signature kidney grille has become wider and, thanks to the thinner headlamps, looks even larger now.

The profile looks very familiar right up to the D-pillar where the rear line is wider, giving the impression of bigger rear overhangs. BMW has always been one to get its wheels-to-body proportions correct and this X3 looks no different with its multi-spoke alloy wheel designs that are sure to give the car a killer look in the real world. Finally, at the rear, the glass house is wide, while the taillamps sport a completely new design giving the rear a unique look. Surprisingly (in the press images at least), the badging is minimal yet elegantly done and in a new font.

How is it on the inside?

BMW’s minimalist cabin look has now been added to the new X3. You get large customisable digital displays while the steering is now a flat bottom unit with button clusters on both sides. The refreshed design language has liberated space between the front passengers. This allows for a large storage space ahead of the control centre that houses the iDrive dial and gear selector mechanism. The rear is a bench seat and not surprisingly offers enough space for three occupants without any issues. The X3’s wheelbase remains the same as before, but it has grown in overall length, resulting in a bigger boot. The total boot capacity stands at 530 litres for the standard model an increase of up to 20 litres compared to the outgoing car. What’s more with the second row folded down you get an additional 100 litres over what was offered on the third-gen car.

What is on the feature list?

Of course, the feature list is going to be massive and the BMW X3 does not disappoint. It gets dual-digital displays, multi-zone climate control, Level 2 ADAS with auto park function, full LED light package, 360-degree camera, panoramic sunroof, connected car technology, Harman Kardon sound system, and a heated steering wheel. It also receives iDrive 9 as part of the deal, and like on the iX and the XM, many functions have been moved to the screen leaving additional storage space all around.

What is it powered by?

Globally, BMW has introduced a plug-in hybrid model in addition to the usual list of petrol, diesel, and electric versions. However, this is unlikely to come to India anytime soon. What we will get is one petrol and one diesel option in the form of the xDrive20d and xDrive20i. A 48V mild-hybrid system is standard as will be an eight-speed AT and xDrive AWD system.

When will it come to India and what are its rivals?

We expect this car to come to India in 2025 on par with its global launch in western markets. BMW is expected to assemble the car locally and it will take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, and the Volvo XC60. Prices are expected to be in the region of Rs. 70 lakh to Rs. 80 lakh.