2025 BMW X3 M50 Review

The 2025 BMW X3 M50 represents a significant update to BMW's popular midsize SUV, featuring a mild-hybrid six-cylinder engine, refined handling, and a modernised tech suite. It continues to build upon the strengths of its predecessor while introducing a more aerodynamic design and an advanced interior technology package. However, some cost-cutting measures in material quality and certain design choices may divide opinions.

With an increase in overall dimensions, the X3 M50 offers more practicality and passenger space than before, but this also makes it feel larger on the road. BMW has worked to improve ride comfort, the revised suspension and adaptive dampers provide a noticeably smoother experience compared to the previous generation. However, some elements of the interior, such as the touch-capacitive controls and specific plastic trim pieces, may leave buyers questioning the overall quality at this price point. Does the 2025 BMW X3 M50 justify its premium positioning in the Australian market? Let’s find out.

How much does the BMW X3 cost?

The BMW X3 range starts at $84,500 before on-road costs for the X3 20 xDrive, while the top-spec M50 xDrive is priced at $126,900. The price increase over the previous generation is minimal, with the M50 costing just $100 more than its predecessor.

2025 BMW X3 Pricing:

• X3 20 xDrive - $84,500‍
• X3 M50 xDrive - $126,900

‍(Prices exclude on-road costs)

A More Aerodynamic Design

The X3 M50 receives a more streamlined look, featuring a redesigned front fascia with a larger illuminated kidney grille and slimmer headlights. The shadow-line adaptive LED headlights provide an aggressive yet sleek look, while the revised bodywork improves aerodynamics, but may turn off fans of BMW’s more traditional designs. 

Compared to the previous generation, the new X3 has grown in size, now measuring 4755mm in length—34mm longer—along with an additional 29mm in width and a 25mm lower roofline, giving it a sportier stance.

BMW has also introduced new colours, including ‘Dune Grey,’ which appears to shift tones depending on lighting conditions. The side profile features more sculpted bodywork and flush door handles, while M50 models get 21-inch wheels as standard, paired with red M-branded brake callipers. The rear showcases an updated taillight design with a distinctive LED pattern reminiscent of Mini models, along with quad exhaust tips that, thankfully, are all functional.

The base X3 20 xDrive comes with 19-inch wheels and an M Sport package as standard, while the M50 steps up to additional Shadowline styling elements, privacy glass, and M-specific bodywork details. Both variants also include BMW’s adaptive LED lighting and the now-iconic illuminated kidney grille as standard.

Tech-Focused, but Some Cost-Cutting

The interior of the 2025 BMW X3 M50 represents a major step forward in technology and design, but not without some drawbacks. The centrepiece of the cabin is the curved digital display, which integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen running BMW’s latest iDrive 9 system. The new interface, based on an Android operating system, is feature-rich and responsive, but it can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of menus and options. Thankfully, the system is customisable, and once familiar, it becomes intuitive to use.

BMW has retained its iDrive rotary controller, a welcome inclusion that makes navigating the infotainment system easier while driving. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, integrating seamlessly with the system. The Harmon Kardon 15-speaker sound system delivers exceptional strong audio performance.

From a comfort perspective, the front seats are a highlight, featuring BMW’s ‘Veganza’ upholstery, which is soft to the touch yet durable. They offer heating, ventilation, adjustable bolstering, and extendable under-thigh support. The M Sport steering wheel is well-weighted and wrapped in high-quality leather, which feels great. I love the tactile feeling of the paddle shifters too.

While the materials in the cabin are mostly high-quality, some areas show signs of cost-cutting. The touch-capacitive controls on the doors feel flimsy and lack the tactile feedback expected in a vehicle at this price point. Some lower plastics, particularly on the door cards, feel out of place in an otherwise well-appointed interior.

Practicality remains strong, with good storage solutions, including a wireless charging pad, multiple USB-C ports, and a decently sized centre console. The uniquely designed, illuminated trim elements and ambient lighting add a modern touch, changing colour based on drive mode selection. Overall, while BMW has significantly modernised the X3’s cabin, certain material choices and the learning curve associated with iDrive 9 may not appeal to all buyers.

Comfortable, But With Some Flaws

Rear seat passengers benefit from excellent legroom and headroom despite the X3’s slightly lower roofline. The outboard rear seats are heated and can be reclined, and the panoramic glass roof brightens up the cabin.

Some lower-quality plastics and an ill-fitting window trim piece in our test car raised concerns about build quality. Despite this, amenities like dual USB-C ports, a third-zone climate control system, and integrated sunshades add to rear passenger comfort.

Larger Boot Space and Clever Features

The X3 M50 offers 570L of cargo space—20L more than before—providing ample room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. Folding the rear seats expands this to 1700L, which is 100L more than the outgoing model, making it one of the more practical choices in the segment. The powered tailgate is standard across the range, as you'd expect at this price point.

BMW has also included a 12V socket and netted compartments, however, there is no spare wheel, with BMW opting for a tyre repair kit instead. The rear seats fold in a 40:20:40 split, allowing for a versatile cargo arrangement depending on passenger and storage needs. Additionally, the lower loading lip makes it easier to slide heavy items in and out - a good touch for daily usability.

A Powertrain That Delivers

The M50 xDrive is powered by BMW’s familiar 3.0L turbocharged inline-six B58 engine, producing 293kW and 580Nm. The increase in torque and power over the previous generation is partly thanks to the introduction of a 48V mild-hybrid system, which assists in low-speed efficiency and response. This power is sent to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an updated ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, which remains one of the smoothest and quickest-shifting gearboxes in the segment. The X3 M50 is capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in a claimed 4.6 seconds, making it one of the quickest non-M SUVs in BMW’s lineup.

The base X3 20 xDrive comes equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 140kW and 310Nm. It also benefits from a mild-hybrid system and achieves a 0-100 km/h time of 8.5 seconds. While the four-cylinder variant prioritises efficiency, the M50 offers significantly more performance for those who want an SUV with engaging driving dynamics.

BMW has made key improvements to the steering and suspension setup for this generation of the X3. The M50 now features a retuned electronically controlled limited-slip differential at the rear, alongside an updated suspension system with adaptive M dampers as standard. The new steering rack has also been reworked, aiming to provide greater precision and feedback. These changes contribute to a refined driving experience, which we will discuss in the following section.

Better Ride, Still Engaging

BMW has significantly reworked the ride and handling dynamics of the X3 M50, addressing one of the primary criticisms of the previous generation. The suspension system now features adaptive M dampers as standard, which provide a broader range of adjustability between comfort and sport settings. This results in a more composed ride over rougher road surfaces while still maintaining the sharp handling characteristics expected from a BMW M Performance model.

The new suspension setup, in combination with the revised electronically controlled limited-slip differential at the rear, enhances overall stability and cornering agility. The previous generation’s firm ride, which was often criticised for being too harsh for daily driving, has been softened without sacrificing road-holding ability. Additionally, the wheelbase remains unchanged, but the widened track and revised steering rack contribute to more precise turn-in and better overall control.

A key improvement comes in the form of the retuned steering system. BMW has introduced a revised variable-ratio steering rack, designed to improve feedback and response. While the outgoing model sometimes felt overly heavy in its steering feel, this new setup provides more natural weighting and better road communication, making it easier to place the car accurately in corners.

The addition of a 48V mild-hybrid system not only boosts efficiency but also enhances throttle response at low speeds. The integration of the electric motor helps smooth out gear changes and contributes to a more refined driving experience in stop-start traffic. Overall, these refinements result in a vehicle that is noticeably more compliant on uneven roads while retaining the driver engagement that BMW owners expect.

Comprehensive Assistance Suite

The 2025 BMW X3 comes equipped with a range of active safety technologies, though it is currently unrated by ANCAP. The adaptive cruise control system, available on both grades, operates smoothly and lane-keeping assistance provides subtle yet effective corrections, while blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert work seamlessly in urban environments. The emergency braking system is responsive, engaging confidently in sudden-stop scenarios without being overly intrusive. Overall, the active safety suite in the X3 M50 is well-calibrated and effective, making highway driving and city commutes much easier.

Safety Features by Model Grade

X3 20 xDrive:

• Adaptive cruise control with stop & go
• Lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
• Traffic sign recognition
• Parking Assistant Plus (with surround-view camera, reversing assistant, and drive recorder)
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
• ISOFIX child seat anchor points

X3 M50 xDrive (adds over X3 20 xDrive):

• Driving Assistant Professional (enhanced lane-keeping assist and lane-centering)
• Extended automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective Beam (auto high beam control)
• M Sport braking system with upgraded performance capabilities
• Active park distance control with front and rear sensors
• Speed limit information with manual and automatic speed limiter
• Steering and Lane Control Assistant for semi-autonomous highway driving

Running Costs and Servicing

The BMW X3 M50 delivers competitive efficiency for its segment, with an official combined fuel consumption of 8.2L/100km. Impressively, the X3 M50 can run on regular 91 RON unleaded petrol, which helps lower refuelling costs compared to some high-performance rivals that require premium fuel.

BMW follows a condition-based servicing schedule, meaning the car will prompt owners when maintenance is required. However, the general guideline is every 12 months or 20,000km. For those looking to prepay their maintenance, BMW offers the Service Inclusive Basic package, covering scheduled servicing for five years or 80,000km, priced at $2475 for the X3 range, which is quite competitive within the premium midsize SUV category.

BMW also provides a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, matching rivals like Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

What do you get with the BMW X3?

BMW has streamlined the X3 range for 2025, offering a well-equipped base model and a performance-focused M50 variant. Standard equipment has been upgraded across both models, ensuring a strong mix of technology, comfort, and premium features.

X3 20 xDrive Standard Features:

• 19-inch M light alloy wheels (with run-flat tyres)
• Three-zone automatic climate control
• Six-speaker 100-watt Hi-Fi system
• Adaptive LED headlights with dual L-shaped daytime running lights
• Acoustic glazing for improved cabin refinement
• Adaptive suspension for better ride comfort
• Automatic tailgate operation
• BMW Digital Premium (90-day trial)
• BMW Iconic Glow illuminated kidney grille
• BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
• BMW Live Cockpit Professional with 14.9-inch + 12.3-inch curved display (Operating System 9)
• Comfort Access and Digital Key Plus
• DAB+ digital radio
• Electric front seats with driver memory function
• BMW Head-Up Display
• M headliner in anthracite
• M Sport Package (includes unique exterior and interior trim elements)
• M Sport leather steering wheel
• Mirror package with auto-dimming function
• Parking Assistant Plus (with 360-camera, reversing assistant, and drive recorder)
• Remote software updates
• Heated front seats
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• Veganza synthetic leather upholstery
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Wireless smartphone charging

X3 M50 xDrive (adds over X3 20 xDrive):

• Metallic paint
• 21-inch M light alloy wheel
• 15-speaker 750W Harmon Kardon surround sound system
• Quad exhaust tips (functional)
• Panoramic glass roof
• M-specific kidney grille, mirror caps, and aerodynamic elements
• Rear privacy glass
• Roller blinds for rear side windows
• M Sport Pro package, which includes:
  
  • M braking system with red callipers
  • M seatbelts
  • M Shadowline headlights and extended black exterior trim
  • Steering wheel heating
  • Seat ventilation for driver and front passenger
  • Heated rear outboard seats

Optional Packages:

Enhancement Pack ($6000, or $4800 with Alpine White non-metallic paint, available on X3 20 xDrive):

• Metallic paint
• Alarm system
• Panoramic glass sunroof
• Harmon Kardon surround sound system

Comfort Pack ($4000, available on X3 20 xDrive):

• Heated second-row seats
• Roller blinds for rear side windows
• Active seat ventilation
• Heated steering wheel
• Privacy glass with sun protection glazing
• Luggage compartment separating net

M Sport Pro Pack ($3000, available on X3 20 xDrive):

• High-gloss Shadow Line with extended black exterior trim
• Radiator grille frame and struts in black
• Trim detailing in tail-light
• Tailpipe trims in black
• M Lights Shadow Line
• M Sport brakes with red high-gloss calipers (also available in blue)
• M seat belts

Single Options:

• Trailer tow hitch, maximum towing capacity 2200kg with a 200kg towball limit ($2200, available on both 20 xDrive and M50 xDrive)

X3 M50 Standard Features:

• 21-inch M light alloy wheels
• 15-speaker, 750W Harmon Kardon sound system
• Adaptive M suspension
• Panoramic glass roof
• Quad exhaust outlets
• M Sport Pro package (M brakes, Shadowline styling, M seatbelts)
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated rear seats
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

So, should you buy the BMW X3 M50?

The 2025 BMW X3 M50 refines the formula of its predecessor, offering a well-balanced mix of performance, practicality, and technology. The inclusion of a 48V mild-hybrid system improves efficiency and response, while the updated adaptive M suspension has significantly enhanced ride comfort without sacrificing BMW’s signature dynamic handling. The revised steering system also makes the X3 M50 feel sharper and more engaging to drive.

Technology is another highlight, with BMW’s Operating System 9 bringing a host of new features. While it can initially feel overwhelming, it becomes intuitive with time, and the inclusion of a rotary iDrive controller remains a welcome touch. The digital cockpit, wireless smartphone integration, and high-quality Harmon Kardon sound system all contribute to a modern and premium driving experience.

That being said, not everything is perfect. The interior features some cost-cutting, with cheaper plastic trim in certain areas and flimsy touch-capacitive controls on the doors that don’t match the overall quality of the cabin. The exterior styling will also likely divide opinions, with some finding it sleek and modern, while others may prefer the more traditional design of past models.

From a value perspective, the X3 M50 is competitively priced given its performance, but at over $126,000 before on-road costs, buyers may expect a slightly higher level of interior refinement. However, the improvements in comfort, technology, and overall driving experience make it a strong contender in the premium midsize SUV segment.

Would we recommend buying it? Yes, for those who want a high-performance, tech-rich luxury SUV with daily usability. But if interior quality is a priority, some rivals offer a more premium feel. If you’re considering one, CarSauce Buy can help you secure the best deal from our extensive dealership network.