The 2025 BMW X3 M50 xDrive brings a bigger body, advanced tech and enhanced performance. But it’s $128,900 price tag before on-roads may have some balking at whether it’s still a value for money proposition.
Considered BMW’s best selling SUV, the latest generation sports a sleek and sophisticated profile, with minimal lines, separating it from the rest of the X3 range. Its pronounced haunches and muscular frame are particularly noteworthy.
So to is its BMW M3-inspired bonnet leading to an illuminated front grille – an element some may find a bit obnoxious, but we loved. The flush door handles and redesigned LED Lazer headlights offer a contemporary twist on the classic BMW halo rings.
We particularly appreciate the matte paint finish, though maintaining its pristine look could be a challenge. Being the M50i, this model showcases a more aggressive front bumper, sporty side skirts, and a rear diffuser, all accented by signature quad tailpipes.
Additionally, it features 21-inch M-specific wheels, with contrasting red brake callipers and the traditional M-style door mirrors, while everything that was once chrome is now finished in sleek gloss black.
This adds to the car’s aggressive yet understated muscularity, perfectly embodying the essence of a soft M. The interior is just as striking, showcasing a modern aesthetic that seamlessly integrates form and function.
Gone are the days of traditional knobs and buttons; instead, you’ll find an impressive, curved display that incorporates a 12.3-inch digital driver’s screen alongside a sizable 14.9-inch infotainment screen.
The dashboard design is contemporary and elegant, enhanced by rich materials like leather, cloth, and aluminium accents. At first glance, the materials give off a luxurious vibe, but a deeper inspection reveals some disappointing scratchy plastics lower down.
It’s an unfortunate oversight given the vehicle’s price point, especially when considering the higher quality materials used in the previous generation. One of the more glaring design missteps is the conspicuously empty storage area beneath the infotainment screen.
It houses cupholders, a wireless phone charger, and USB-C ports. It looks more suited to a budget brand, rather than a premium offering. The integration of the memory seat functions and climate controls into the door design feels somewhat haphazard too.
These minor drawbacks are outweighed by the impressive technology packed into the cabin. With features such as wireless 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 one of the best, boasting sharp graphics and a user-friendly interface. While there is a tendency for the car’s operations to be overly streamlined through the screen, there are some standout features that make up for it.
One highlight is the built-in interior camera, perfect for keeping an eye on any backseat shenanigans and serving as a handy dash cam. The driver is greeted by a sporty M Sport steering wheel, featuring a striking red centre marker and aggressive paddles behind.
The seat belts are elegantly stitched with the three iconic M colours, adding an extra flair to the sporty interior. The digital driver’s display is crisp and easy to read, providing essential driving data at a glance. A head-up display adds an extra layer of convenience.
BMW has retained the beloved iDrive system, which is conveniently positioned on the centre console alongside a physical volume knob and several shortcut buttons, including the My Mode feature that adjusts the car’s driving dynamics.
In terms of storage, you’ll find generous door bins, a decent centre console, and an average-sized glove box. For comfort, the half-leather, half-suede M-style seats are exceptionally supportive and electronically adjustable, offering both heating and cooling.
To combat any feelings of gloom from the sea of screens, BMW has added ambient lighting that transforms the atmosphere, giving you the sensation of stepping into a high-end lounge.
One of the coolest features is the ability to switch to Sport mode, which bathes the interior in vibrant BMW M colours—adding an exciting touch that elevates your driving experience. The second row is impressive too, with plenty of leg and headroom.
The wider wheelbase also contributes to the ease of fitting three adults across the back, creating a more accommodating environment. The back seats come well-equipped with a user-friendly climate control panel located on the rear of the centre console.
Outboard seats feature heating functions. There are two cupholders in the middle armrest, along with decent-sized door bins. Both outboard seats are fitted with ISOFIX anchor points and top tether points, making child seat installation a breeze.
Integrated window blinds and a moon roof complete the package. Boot space is a generous 570-litres with the second row up, or 1,700-litres with them laid flat. Loaded with safety, the X3 M50 xDrive features autonomous emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.
You’ll also find lane departure warning, and steering and lane control assistant, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, a surround-view camera, parking assistant, reverse assistant, a drive recorder, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
On the road, the BMW comes with an unexpected party piece, especially considering it’s a soft-M car. Under the bonnet is a glorious 3.0-litre straight-six turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V mild hybrid system. The combination delivers 293kW and 580Nm.
All that power is sent through an 8-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive. As a result, this midsized SUV can rocket to 100km/h in a blistering 4.6 seconds (officially) – but we can confirm it’s quicker than that.
Engage Sport mode, and a thrilling transformation occurs. You’ll be greeted by the charismatic crackles and pops of the exhaust note, while the M50 catapults you out of corners and launches you down the straights.
The acceleration feels downright exhilarating, thanks to the impressively rapid and responsive AWD system and a gearbox that ensures you harness all that power smoothly. The addition of adaptive dampers enhances the driving experience.
You’ll also be taken aback by how well it grips the road, instilling confidence in every turn. Steering is sharp and direct, offering a satisfying weight. Traction out of bends is exceptional, thanks to its rear-wheel bias, making this SUV a genuinely fun ride.
On long journeys, it maintains comfort and efficiency, achieving a respectable average fuel consumption of 8.6-litres/100km. If you have a lead foot though, you’ll be creeping closer to 10-litres.
The elevated seating position allows for excellent visibility. Tyre noise is almost non-existent. If there’s a fault, it’s the fact that the substantial A-pillar can be a blind spot, occasionally causing smaller cars to vanish from view briefly.
The back window doesn’t offer the best visibility either. In Personal mode, throttle response becomes less aggressive, making for a quieter ride. What makes this car special though is that it’s the ultimate dad hack.
It’s the clever family loophole: a practical SUV that lets you sneak in a bit of spirited driving too. Backed by a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty and 3-years roadside assistance, there’s more information on the BMW Australia website, or from your local dealership.
To get a low rate finance quote, talk to Australia’s best reviewed car finance broker; Credit One. To see a great range of vehicles for sale, check out OnlyCars.com.au.
Our test vehicle was provided by BMW Australia for independent review purposes. Images supplied.
