Discover the all‑new BMW G45 X3: the fourth-generation compact SUV that brings a sharper design and all-new tech. We break down what’s changed (both good and bad) and whether it’s worth the high price tag of between £51,605 and £71,005, depending on trim level.
BMW G45 X3 Lineup & Specifications
| Model | Powertrain | Power Output | Performance / Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| X3 30e xDrive | 2.0L petrol + electric motor (PHEV) | 299 hp (combined) | Up to 90 km electric range (WLTP) |
| X3 M50 xDrive | 3.0L inline-6 + 48V mild hybrid | 398 hp | 0–100 km/h in 4.6 sec |
| X3 20 xDrive | 2.0L petrol + 48V mild hybrid | 208 hp | 0–100 km/h in 7.8 sec |
| X3 20d xDrive | 2.0L diesel + 48V mild hybrid | 197 hp | 0–100 km/h in 7.7 sec |
Why the new BMW G45 X3 matters:
The previous generation 'G01' BMW X3 was actually BMW's best-selling model. Mid-size SUVs are in such high demand these days, and with the BMW X3 offering the perfect mix of practicality, affordable running costs, quality, and the BMW badge, of course, it was destined to be a popular choice. This is a very important model for BMW to get right, so how does this latest version stack up?
What’s new on the outside?
The new G45 X3 is lower, wider and longer than the outgoing model. Combined with BMW's current trend of sharp, minimalist styling, the G45 looks sleeker than the previous G01, which should appeal nicely to the mass market.
Available trims include the X-line and M-Sport with the range-topping M50 model coming with its own bespoke styling features. Exterior-wise the M Sport pack gives you the usual more aggressive bumpers, black trim and larger wheels whilst the M50 gives you an even more aggressive front bumper and rear diffuser, M-style wing mirrors, quad exhaust tailpipes and a host of optional M Performance parts.
Inside the G45 X3's updated cabin:
BMW has made substantial changes to the BMW X3's interior with this new G45 model. The outgoing car had a simple premium interior with a very solid feel; however, this latest model does show a lot of cost-cutting measures that are plaguing a lot of BMW's latest releases.
The G45 has quite a minimalistic look with far fewer physical buttons than before. Most of the controls are now hidden within the stunning widescreen display. Whilst this improves the interior, visually, it does make operating basic controls a bit of a faff, which can distract you from the road. The ambient lighting throughout the cabin makes the car feel more premium but it's likely there to distract you from the rather sub-par materials. As with many recent BMWs - such as the G60 5 Series - there is a lot of cheap plastic, lower quality fake leather, which wears prematurely and just a feeling that the manufacturer is really trying to save money.
Why are modern BMW interiors becoming lower-quality?
This unfortunate trend is actually thanks to EU regulations mandating expensive technology in new cars, not to mention the added cost of hybrid and electric powertrains. BMW has been reluctant to increase the prices of its vehicles to compensate for the rising costs and is instead cutting costs elsewhere in the vehicle, such as the interior materials. The 2025 G45 X3, for example, currently starts at £51,605, which, taking inflation into account, is only around £600 more than the base G01 X3, launched in 2018. Despite all the extra technology and complication, prices haven't really risen, meaning BMW had to make the money back somewhere.
BMW G45 X3 Pricing & availability
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Launch timing: Revealed June 2024, first customer deliveries Q4 2024; global rollout throughout 2025.
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Pricing guides:
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EU: 20 xDrive ~ €63,900; 30e ~ €71,900; M50 ~ €89,900
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UK: Base ~ £48,375; M50 ~ £66,980
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US: 30 xDrive from ~$49,950; M50 ~$64,700
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Please note: Base prices have risen slightly since the 2024 launch.
Will there be a new BMW X3M?
BMW has announced there are no plans to make a new BMW X3M based on the 2024+ G45 X3 platform. The spiciest X3 available is the M50 model with just shy of 400 bhp from its turbocharged straight-six B58 engine.
Why is there no new BMW X3M?
Despite its incredible performance for an SUV, the previous F97 X3M didn't actually sell as well as you might think. For a mass manufacturer like BMW, volume is crucial, and there just wasn't enough demand for the previous car, especially the 2022+ LCI version, which started at around £85,000 before options.
BMW G45 X3 Modifications & Aftermarket Parts
As with most BMWs, the G45 X3 is already seeing a lot of aftermarket performance and styling upgrades in development. BMW itself offers a huge catalogue of M Performance parts - especially for the flagship X3 M50.
R44 Performance is a BMW aftermarket specialist with a wide range of both OEM and aftermarket parts, modifications & accessories available for the new G45 X3. The M50's B58 engine is found in a variety of other BMW models and is highly tunable. Check out our collection of BMW G45 X3 modifications here.
