A revised prototype of the BMW X3 has been identified undergoing trials once more, this time at the renowned Nürburgring circuit in Germany. The upcoming vehicle will represent the fourth iteration of this highly successful model line.
The existing X3 was initially launched for the 2018 model year, having made its debut in 2017. It subsequently received a mid-cycle refresh in 2022. In line with BMW’s conventional release schedule, the overhauled X3 is slated to make its entrance in 2024 as a 2025 model year offering. A revamped version of the closely related X4 is projected to follow 12 to 18 months thereafter, potentially as an electric-only model, underpinned by BMW’s forthcoming Neue Klasse specialized electric vehicle (EV) platform.
Though the prototype observed was heavily disguised, it appears that the overall dimensions will closely mirror those of its predecessor, albeit with slightly more rounded contours. Despite the disguise, the configuration of the headlights is distinctly visible, and the grille appears to have adopted a more vertical orientation, even though it has been camouflaged to resemble the existing X3 model.
The interior remains largely concealed, but preliminary observations suggest a minimalist dashboard featuring detached screens serving as the instrument cluster and the entertainment system control center. This design direction is consistent with recent BMW offerings, such as the updated 2023 3-Series and the newly redesigned 2024 5-Series.
The underlying architecture for the upcoming X3 is expected to be a refined version of the current model’s CLAR platform. This implies the continuation of rear-wheel drive as the standard configuration, with optional all-wheel drive. Engine options are likely to include a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6, both equipped with mild-hybrid capabilities as standard. A plug-in hybrid variant is also anticipated, potentially extending to the future X3 M model.
Presently, an electric iX3 variant is available in markets outside the United States. While this electric version utilizes a modified CLAR platform, the succeeding electric X3 model, projected for the U.S. market, is anticipated to be based on BMW’s specialized Neue Klasse EV platform. BMW has announced that the inaugural model on this platform, slated for a 2025 release, will belong to the 3-Series segment and was previewed by the recent Vision Neue Klasse concept. This will be succeeded by a performance-oriented SUV, possibly the aforementioned electric-only X4.
Manufacturing of the reengineered X3 is expected to occur at BMW Group’s facility in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where the current X3 model is produced. However, any Neue Klasse-derived versions are likely to be assembled at different locations. The first vehicle to be built on the Neue Klasse platform will commence production in Debrecen, Hungary, in 2025, followed by additional production capabilities at existing BMW facilities in Germany and China starting in 2026, and in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, beginning in 2027.
BMW has a vested interest in maintaining the X3’s market performance. In the year 2022, the company sold 65,800 units of the X3 in the United States alone, cementing its status as BMW’s best-selling vehicle in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about 2025 BMW X3
What is the release timeline for the fourth-generation 2025 BMW X3?
The fourth-generation BMW X3 is expected to debut in 2024 as a 2025 model. This aligns with BMW’s traditional model release cycles, including a mid-cycle update for the existing X3 in 2022.
Where was the 2025 BMW X3 prototype recently tested?
The prototype for the fourth-generation 2025 BMW X3 was recently spotted undergoing tests at the Nürburgring circuit in Germany.
Will the new BMW X3 offer electric or hybrid variants?
Yes, the upcoming BMW X3 is expected to offer advanced hybrid technology. A plug-in hybrid variant is also anticipated, potentially extending to the future X3 M model. Furthermore, an electric version of the X3 based on BMW’s specialized Neue Klasse EV platform is expected for the U.S. market.
How will the design of the 2025 BMW X3 differ from the current model?
Though heavily camouflaged during testing, the prototype suggests that the 2025 BMW X3 will have dimensions similar to the current model but with slightly more rounded contours. The grille is expected to adopt a more vertical orientation, and detached screens are likely to feature on the dashboard, in line with recent BMW design language.
Where will the 2025 BMW X3 be manufactured?
The fourth-generation BMW X3 is expected to be produced at BMW Group’s Spartanburg, South Carolina facility, where the current X3 model is also built.
How significant is the X3 model for BMW’s U.S. sales?
The BMW X3 has proven to be a highly successful model for BMW in the United States. In 2022 alone, the company sold 65,800 units of the vehicle, making it the best-selling BMW model in the region.
More about 2025 BMW X3
- BMW Official Website
- Nürburgring Official Site
- Neue Klasse EV Platform Overview
- 2022 BMW X3 Mid-Cycle Update
- BMW U.S. Sales Data 2022
- Spartanburg BMW Plant Information
- BMW Vision Neue Klasse Concept