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BMW X3 20 xDrive 2025 review: snapshot

EXPERT RATING
7.5

Likes

Best value in the range
Also the best to drive
Perfectly matched components and dynamics

Dislikes

No standard sunroof on this model
No third-row option
Standard run-flat tyres
David Morley

Contributing Journalist

2 min read

The entry-level price-point in the new X3 range, the 20 costs $86,100 before on-road costs and is a full-sized SUV with two rows of seats for a total of five passengers. There’s no seven-seat version.

Thanks to BMW’s switch to a line-up in which every model incorporates some form of electrification, the X3 20 uses a mild hybrid system which serves to regenerate some braking energy as well as act as an alternator and starter motor for the vehicle.

The 20 gets a 2.0-litre petrol engine which does the heavy lifting and a small electric motor and battery-pack to provide a bit more urge when required. With both power sources contributing, the X3 20 produces 140kW and 310Nm of torque. The 20 uses an eight-speed automatic and is fitted with BMW’s xDrive permanent all-wheel-drive system.

Standard equipment includes alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, heated front seats, wireless charging, full connectivity and BMW’s latest cabin tech which includes two large info screens. There’s plenty of space even in the rear seat and lots of storage compartments and charge points.

Safety includes all the latest driver-aid technology including auto emergency braking (AEB), rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors and cameras.

The X3 range can tow a maximum of 2000kg on a braked trailer.

Read the full 2025 BMW X Models review

BMW X3 2025: 20 Xdrive

Engine Type Turbo 4, 2.0L
Fuel Type Premium Unleaded Petrol
Fuel Efficiency 7.5L/100km (combined)
Seating 5
Price From $69,410 - $79,750
Safety Rating

Pricing Guides

$86,580
Based on 93 cars listed for sale in the last 6 months.
LOWEST PRICE
$41,788
HIGHEST PRICE
$135,900
David Morley

Contributing Journalist

Growing up in country NSW meant that for David Morley, a car (and a licence to go with it) wasn’t optional; it was an absolute necessity if the pursuit of freedom was ever going to be realised. And so began a lifetime of messing about with cars and motorcycles. The metal and rubber soon opened up the possibilities for travel and adventure, and Morley has managed to combine both the machinery and an atlas to good use, seeing the world in the process and almost always managing to avoid being detained by whichever authorities were lurking. Eventually the lure of making a living from thrashing other people’s cars became too strong, and Morley moved to the big smoke of Melbourne where he scored a job on Car Australia magazine. After finishing Year 12, he also studied the workings of motor vehicles at TAFE level and built up a decent working knowledge of his own cars by constantly breaking them. A freelancer now for more than three decades, and a motoring journalist for four, Morley happily concedes that he’s been native too long to ever return to a desk job. And, for that, other office workers should be thankful. Titles Morley has worked for include Motor, Car Australia, Street Machine, Wheels, Unique Cars, The Age, RACV's Royal Auto, Drive and, of course, CarsGuide, and he has authored several books on his favourite subject. Taking up space in the Morley garage right now, his 1972 Valiant Charger continues to refuse to be tuned, while his almost equally ancient LandCruiser has been to every State and Territory bar Tassie (and then, only because the snorkel isn’t long enough). Featured Publications Motor Car Australia Street Machine Wheels Unique Cars The Age RACV's Royal Auto Drive CarsGuide
About Author
Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication. Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.
Pricing Guide
$41,788
Lowest price, based on CarsGuide listings over the last 6 months.
For more information on
2025 BMW X Models
See Pricing & Specs

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