Evolution of BMW X3

BMW X3 E83 [2004-2006]

Designed to be the X5’s younger brother, the BMW X3 combines BMW’s characteristic driving dynamics with the versatility of an SUV. It brought a fresh and distinctive design with a robust and sporty look. The front was dominated by BMW’s characteristic double grille, flanked by large, somewhat unusual headlights, as was the rear.

He was as robust on the outside as he was on the inside. It offered large space, a roomy dashboard and a simple dashboard with two large dials and the BMW iDrive infotainment system.

Built on the 3 Series platform, the X3 offered standard all-wheel drive on all models, and the torque split was 40:60, meaning it could transfer torque directly to the front or rear axle. Available engines included 2.0 2.5 and 3.0 liter four and six cylinder engines respectively.

BMW X3 E83 Facelift [2006-2010]

In 2006 the X3 received a significant exterior update, which received new headlights and taillights, as well as redesigned bumpers. The improvements were also seen inside, where the appearance was refreshed.

But, BMW made the biggest improvements under the hood, where a 3.0-liter engine came with a higher output of 286 hp, and the 2.0-liter diesel engine was replaced by a 1.8-liter.

BMW X3 F25 [2010-2014]

In 2010, BMW is ready to unveil the second generation X3, which was a game changer. It had a more refined and luxurious design, new headlights, a larger grille and a revised rear. In addition to the fact that the interior was completely new and offered more space, BMW raised the bar with better materials, more technology and improved driving dynamics.

The F25 brought a new level of performance with the introduction of turbo engines. The highlight? xDrive35i, which had a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that produced 306 horsepower. The F25 was faster, more fuel efficient and just plain better than its predecessor.

BMW X3 F25 Facelift [2014-2017]

The second generation BMW X3 received a facelift in 2014, bringing more power under the hood and a revised design. It came with a new face, a new bumper design, revised headlights and glued to the revised front grille. The interior was also completely revised, having a much more modern and technological aspect. The 2014 X3 offered rear- or all-wheel drive options with updated engines.

BMW X3 G01 [2017-2021]

The evolution of the X3 continues with the third generation, and this is clearly visible. Launched in 2017, the G01 is built on BMW’s CLAR platform, which it shares with the 5 Series and 7 Series, making it lighter and stiffer. The design is sharper, more aggressive, with a larger grille in front and three more openings for cooling the engines and brakes in the bumper. The back is also totally redesigned, being really spectacular.

The interior is also redesigned and packed with the latest technology, from advanced driver assistance systems to a fully digital dashboard.

But it’s not just about looks. The G01 offers a range of engines, the base engine being a new 2.0-litre petrol unit that delivers 181bhp, but also two turbodiesels and also a 293bhp plug-in hybrid version. BMW even went fully electric with the iX3, demonstrating their commitment to a sustainable future.

BMW X3 G01 Facelift [2022-2024]

In 2022, the X3 was refreshed, taking technologies from its older brother and becoming an even more complete option.

The exterior has received a new front bumper, an enlarged kidney grille with a single-section frame and flatter LED headlights with an option for Matrix LEDs. The rear received a new design for taillights and free-form exhausts, depending on the version.

BMW also modifies the interior where it installed a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with an option for a 12.3-inch display, a redesigned center console with a new gear selector and iDrive rotary knob.

Under the hood, the biggest innovation was electrification, with a 48-volt system that improved fuel efficiency. In addition to the internal combustion engines, a plug-in hybrid option was also introduced, the 30e developing 292 horsepower.

BMW X3 G45 2025

For 2025, BMW has taken design to another level with the new X3. Either you love him or you hate him! The fourth generation X3 is distinguished by larger dimensions and a completely new design.

It is longer and wider than its predecessor, and the face is dramatically restyled, with triangular LED headlights, optional Matrix LED, an enlarged kidney grille and an imposing bar.

The rear is quite simple, with sharp shapes and lines and exhaust pipes hidden under the bumper.

The new concept is also noticeable inside, through the BMW Curved Display, the BMW Interaction Bar, the flattened steering wheel and the new gear shifter.

Under the hood, the 2025 X3 is available with 2.0-liter diesel and gasoline engines, all of which are electrified. Also, the powertrain of the BMW X3 30e xDrive (PHEV) combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, offering a total output of 299 hp. The standard transmission is an eight-speed automatic with electronically controlled all-wheel drive.