All New 2025 BMW X3 M50 - Interior and Exterior | Walkaround
Few vehicles in BMW’s lineup carry the weight of expectations quite like the X3. As one of the brand’s top-selling models in 2023—averaging nearly 1,000 units sold daily—the X3 has set a high bar for its successors. Enter the 2025 BMW X3 M50, a high-performance crossover designed to not only fill these big shoes but to carve out its own identity. With its bold new design and upgraded features, the X3 M50 is already stirring strong opinions. I traveled to Munich, Germany, to experience it firsthand and determine if this next-generation model lives up to its formidable legacy. From its cutting-edge aesthetics to its advanced technology and driving dynamics, here’s what the new X3 M50 brings to the table.
The 2025 X3 M50 marks a significant departure from the evolutionary design philosophy that defined its predecessors. BMW has embraced a new design ethos, referred to as "monolithic" styling—minimalistic, fresh, and undeniably polarizing. Gone are the classic dual headlights, replaced by sleek, L-shaped LED bars that exude a futuristic vibe. While the iconic kidney grille remains modest in size relative to the vehicle, its integration with illuminated elements and driving assistant sensors has sparked heated debate among enthusiasts.
From the side profile, the X3 adopts a more coupe-like roofline, enhancing its sleek and sporty demeanor. The standard 20-inch wheels, with an option to upgrade to striking 22-inch alloys, further amplify its road presence. However, the design’s reception has been mixed, with some praising its modernity while others lament the loss of BMW’s traditional styling cues—a sentiment that’s been echoed across social media.
Step inside the 2025 X3 M50, and you’re greeted by a cabin that blends futuristic tech with a dash of controversy. Dominating the dashboard is a large curved display powered by BMW’s latest iDrive 9 system, offering a seamless and intuitive user experience. While the tech upgrades are impressive, the interior’s material choices have drawn criticism. At first glance, the cabin appears upscale, but closer inspection reveals a noticeable reliance on plastics, which undermines its premium feel.
Moreover, some previously beloved features are conspicuously absent. Rear ambient lighting and a retractable moonroof are no longer available, leaving a gap in what many considered integral to the X3’s luxurious appeal. While the overall layout is modern and functional, these omissions may leave long-time fans yearning for the refinement of previous models.
