BOLDER, BETTER

Drives like a 3 Series, rides like an SUV that's the X3 for you

- By Kurt Morris

When BMW introduced the X3 in 2003, it created an entirely new segment — the Sports Activity Vehicle. Two decades later, the latest iteration continues to set benchmarks, blending the practicality of an SUV with driving dynamics that rival sports sedans. After a week with the 2025 BMW X3 xDrive20d, it's clear that this Bavarian marvel remains in a class of its own, offering an engaging driving experience that its competitors still struggle to match.

The current third-generation X3 represents the culmination of BMW's 20-year refinement process. While dimensions have grown slightly with each iteration — particularly in this long-wheelbase Indian-spec version — the fundamental philosophy remains unchanged. This SUV is designed first and foremost for driving enthusiasts, which becomes apparent within the first few kilometres behind the wheel.

Our test vehicle arrived in a sophisticated Black Sapphire Metallic paint, its redesigned kidney grille featuring an intricate cross-hatch pattern that reflects sunlight differently throughout the day. The illumination package adds drama after dark, with the grille’s outline glowing softly upon approach — one of those subtle and premium touches that BMW executes so well. At 4,708 mm in length (in LWB guise), the X3 strikes an ideal balance between presence and manoeuvrability, with short overhangs that hint at its dynamic capabilities.