Agreeable on the inside: the BMW X3 M50 offers a charismatic yet challenging SUV experience
BMW has announced the upcoming release of the fourth generation of its popular X3 SUV, set to be a part of the Neue Klasse series. The new model, identified by the chassis code G45, will feature a cleaner, sleeker body design, advanced technology, and will be built on the flexible CLAR architecture.
A Sleeker Exterior Design
The Neue Klasse X3 will boast a refreshed exterior design, characterized by new LED L-shaped headlights similar to those on the latest BMW 5 Series, X1, and X2. The classic kidney grille will adopt a more streamlined, LED-lit look, maintaining its signature presence. The taillights will have two parallel light bars extending into the trunk, with an "X" motif wrapping around the fenders, including Y-shaped light signatures.
State-of-the-art Technology
Inside, the Neue Klasse X3 will be equipped with the latest technology, featuring the BMW Panoramic Vision head-up display and a large central touchscreen with the next-generation iDrive system called iDrive X.
Timeline for Release
Production of the Neue Klasse X3 is set to begin in fall 2025 at BMW's Spartanburg plant, with the model expected to be unveiled by mid-summer 2024, followed by market introduction in 2025.
This design and technology update marks a significant step in bringing the Neue Klasse design language and next-generation tech to the BMW X3 lineup.
A Brief History of the BMW X3
The BMW X3, first introduced in 2003, created the market for smaller SUVs and has been a staple in BMW's lineup ever since. The original X3 was designed in BMW's Californian studios, where size and status were closely linked. The X3 M50, a mild hybrid with a twin-turbo straight six engine and 8-speed Steptronic transmission, currently retails at around £65,000, with additional options pushing the price up to approximately £80,000.
Despite its changing status, BMW has shown no signs of abandoning the SUV sector, with the survival of the X3 through to its fourth generation. The largest SUV in BMW's lineup is the 7-seater X7, nearly 5.2m long.
The Neue Klasse X3 is expected to receive a similar frontal treatment as seen in the BMW Neue Klasse X concept, with some areas pushed back or refined to create a more balanced design. The exterior design, however, lacks overall balance and has a disconnected rear shoulder line compared to its predecessors.
Regardless, the interior of the BMW X3 remains its strong point, featuring a cohesive design that isn't overwhelmed by jazzy angles or excessive ambient lighting effects. The X3's dominating grille, reminiscent of flared nostrils of an angry bull, continues to be a signature feature of the model.
The BMW X3 M50, as tested, has nearly 400bhp but its exhaust can be overly dominant in Sport mode. The new Neue Klasse X3, with its cleaner, sleeker design and advanced technology, promises to offer an even more appealing driving experience to its customers.
[1] BMW Group PressClub Global
[2] Autocar
[3] Car and Driver
[4] BMW Blog
[5] CNET
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