The 2025 BMW X3 M50 xDrive brings an even bigger physique, superior tech and enhanced efficiency. Nevertheless it’s $128,900 price ticket earlier than on-roads might have some balking at whether or not it’s nonetheless a price for cash proposition.
Thought of BMW’s greatest promoting SUV, the newest technology sports activities a modern and complex profile, with minimal strains, separating it from the remainder of the X3 vary. Its pronounced haunches and muscular body are significantly noteworthy.
So to is its BMW M3-inspired bonnet resulting in an illuminated entrance grille – a component some might discover a bit obnoxious, however we beloved. The flush door handles and redesigned LED Lazer headlights supply a up to date twist on the traditional BMW halo rings.
We significantly admire the matte paint end, although sustaining its pristine look may very well be a problem. Being the M50i, this mannequin showcases a extra aggressive entrance bumper, sporty aspect skirts, and a rear diffuser, all accented by signature quad tailpipes.
Moreover, it options 21-inch M-specific wheels, with contrasting crimson brake callipers and the normal M-style door mirrors, whereas every thing that was as soon as chrome is now completed in modern gloss black.
This provides to the automobile’s aggressive but understated muscularity, completely embodying the essence of a gentle M. The inside is simply as hanging, showcasing a contemporary aesthetic that seamlessly integrates kind and performance.
Gone are the times of conventional knobs and buttons; as a substitute, you’ll discover a powerful, curved show that includes a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display screen alongside a large 14.9-inch infotainment display screen.
The dashboard design is modern and stylish, enhanced by wealthy supplies like leather-based, material, and aluminium accents. At first look, the supplies give off an opulent vibe, however a deeper inspection reveals some disappointing scratchy plastics decrease down.
It’s an unlucky oversight given the car’s value level, particularly when contemplating the upper high quality supplies used within the earlier technology. One of many extra obtrusive design missteps is the conspicuously empty storage space beneath the infotainment display screen.
It homes cupholders, a wi-fi cellphone charger, and USB-C ports. It appears extra suited to a price range model, reasonably than a premium providing. The combination of the reminiscence seat capabilities and local weather controls into the door design feels considerably haphazard too.
These minor drawbacks are outweighed by the spectacular expertise packed into the cabin. With options resembling wi-fi Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, digital radio, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system, you’re well-equipped for any journey.
The infotainment system stands out as the most effective, boasting sharp graphics and a user-friendly interface. Whereas there’s a tendency for the automobile’s operations to be overly streamlined by way of the display screen, there are some standout options that make up for it.
One spotlight is the built-in inside digicam, excellent for keeping track of any backseat shenanigans and serving as a useful sprint cam. The driving force is greeted by a sporty M Sport steering wheel, that includes a hanging crimson centre marker and aggressive paddles behind.
The seat belts are elegantly stitched with the three iconic M colors, including an additional aptitude to the sporty inside. The digital driver’s show is crisp and simple to learn, offering important driving knowledge at a look. A head-up show provides an additional layer of comfort.
BMW has retained the beloved iDrive system, which is conveniently positioned on the centre console alongside a bodily quantity knob and several other shortcut buttons, together with the My Mode characteristic that adjusts the automobile’s driving dynamics.
When it comes to storage, you’ll discover beneficiant door bins, a good centre console, and an average-sized glove field. For consolation, the half-leather, half-suede M-style seats are exceptionally supportive and electronically adjustable, providing each heating and cooling.
To fight any emotions of gloom from the ocean of screens, BMW has added ambient lighting that transforms the ambiance, supplying you with the feeling of stepping right into a high-end lounge.
One of many coolest options is the power to change to Sport mode, which bathes the inside in vibrant BMW M colors—including an thrilling contact that elevates your driving expertise. The second row is spectacular too, with loads of leg and headroom.
The broader wheelbase additionally contributes to the benefit of becoming three adults throughout the again, making a extra accommodating setting. The again seats come well-equipped with a user-friendly local weather management panel situated on the rear of the centre console.
Outboard seats characteristic heating capabilities. There are two cupholders within the center armrest, together with decent-sized door bins. Each outboard seats are fitted with ISOFIX anchor factors and high tether factors, making youngster seat set up a breeze.
Built-in window blinds and a moon roof full the package deal. Boot area is a beneficiant 570-litres with the second row up, or 1,700-litres with them laid flat. Loaded with security, the X3 M50 xDrive options autonomous emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.
You’ll additionally discover lane departure warning, and steering and lane management assistant, adaptive cruise management with stop-and-go, a surround-view digicam, parking assistant, reverse assistant, a drive recorder, and a tire stress monitoring system.
On the street, the BMW comes with an sudden celebration piece, particularly contemplating it’s a soft-M automobile. Underneath the bonnet is a wonderful 3.0-litre straight-six turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V delicate hybrid system. The mixture delivers 293kW and 580Nm.
All that energy is distributed by way of an 8-speed computerized transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive. Consequently, this midsized SUV can rocket to 100km/h in a blistering 4.6 seconds (formally) – however we will affirm it’s faster than that.
Have interaction Sport mode, and an exciting transformation happens. You’ll be greeted by the charismatic crackles and pops of the exhaust be aware, whereas the M50 catapults you out of corners and launches you down the straights.
The acceleration feels downright exhilarating, because of the impressively fast and responsive AWD system and a gearbox that ensures you harness all that energy easily. The addition of adaptive dampers enhances the driving expertise.
You’ll even be stunned by how nicely it grips the street, instilling confidence in each flip. Steering is sharp and direct, providing a satisfying weight. Traction out of bends is phenomenal, because of its rear-wheel bias, making this SUV a genuinely enjoyable journey.
On lengthy journeys, it maintains consolation and effectivity, reaching a decent common gasoline consumption of 8.6-litres/100km. You probably have a lead foot although, you’ll be creeping nearer to 10-litres.
The elevated seating place permits for glorious visibility. Tyre noise is nearly non-existent. If there’s a fault, it’s the truth that the substantial A-pillar could be a blind spot, often inflicting smaller automobiles to fade from view briefly.
The again window doesn’t supply the very best visibility both. In Private mode, throttle response turns into much less aggressive, making for a quieter journey. What makes this automobile particular although is that it’s the last word dad hack.
It’s the intelligent household loophole: a sensible SUV that allows you to sneak in a little bit of spirited driving too. Backed by a 5-year limitless kilometre guarantee and 3-years roadside help, there’s extra data on the BMW Australia web site, or out of your native dealership.
To get a low charge finance quote, speak to Australia’s greatest reviewed automobile finance dealer; Credit score One. To see an excellent vary of automobiles on the market, try OnlyCars.com.au.
Our check car was offered by BMW Australia for unbiased assessment functions. Photographs provided.
