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Photographs by Ishaan Jaiswal

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 S8V 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 crosshatch 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.

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The xDrive20d’s 2.0-litre turbodiesel is nigh on the perfect powerplant for Indian conditions. Producing 194 bhp and 40.78 kgm of torque, it delivers strong real-world performance while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency. The magic lies in the torque delivery — all of it arrives at just 1,750 rpm, resulting in immediate response, regardless of engine speed. What’s remarkable is how BMW has refined this diesel to near-silent operation at cruising speeds. While a faint clatter remains audible outside, cabin insulation is so effective that occupants might mistake this for a petrol engine under gentle throttle. The standard 8-speed automatic transmission deserves equal praise, with imperceptible upshifts and perfectly timed downshifts.

The X3’s true brilliance reveals itself when the road starts twisting. Where competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLC prioritise pillowy ride comfort, the BMW delivers the kind of steering feedback and body control that would impress in a 3 Series sedan. The electromechanical steering provides perfect weighting — light enough for parking yet substantial at speed, and with genuine feedback about road conditions.

The suspension also strikes a great balance — it’s firm enough to keep body roll in check during hard driving, and supple enough to iron out rough patches and undulations, ensuring a fatigue-free ride. Even aggressive cornering produces minimal lean, inspiring confidence that’s rare in this segment. The xDrive all-wheel system typically sends 40 per cent of power to the front wheels and 60 per cent to the rear, but it can vary this split instantly based on the driving conditions. Whether navigating Mumbai’s chaotic streets or eating up miles on an expressway, the X3 remains composed, comfortable, and engaging — a rare combination that probably makes it the most versatile and enjoyable SUV in its class.

Selecting Sport+ mode transforms the X3’s character. The throttle sharpens, the transmission holds gears longer, and the stability control relaxes just enough to allow controlled slides on loose surfaces — as we discovered during our photo shoot. Yet even at the limit, the X3 remains predictable and controllable, a testament to BMW’s chassis tuning expertise. We found an empty ground and had some fun sliding this SUV around effortlessly, and it makes you feel like a rally pro in the dirt.

Sliding into the driver’s seat reveals BMW’s trademark driver-focused ergonomics. The cockpit wraps around the occupant, with all primary controls falling perfectly to hand. The redesigned steering wheel feels substantial yet precise, with its thick rim providing excellent feedback. The front seats offer 14-way power adjustment with optional massage functions, ensuring perfect positioning for both short commutes and long journeys.

The highlight is BMW’s latest curved display setup, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that flows seamlessly into a 14.9- inch central touchscreen. While the graphics remain crisp and the system responsive, some menu icons feel dated compared to newer BMW models — a minor but noticeable oversight. The latest iDrive 8.5 interface represents a significant improvement over previous versions, with more intuitive menus and faster response times.

BMW’s attention to detail shines through in unexpected places. The ‘Function Island’ — a haptic touch control panel integrated into the door trim — handles climate settings and seat memory functions with elegant simplicity. Material quality is exceptional throughout, from the soft-touch vegan leather upholstery to the intricate knitted fabric dashboard trim that adds visual warmth. The ambient lighting system deserves special mention — rather than simple LED strips, it creates a three-dimensional lighting effect that gives the cabin an almost jewel-like quality at night.

Beyond the impressive curved display, the X3 offers numerous tech highlights. The optional 765-watt Harman Kardon audio system fills the cabin with rich, detailed sound, while one of the best head-up displays in the business projects crisp, customisable information directly in the driver s sight-line. Driver assistance systems include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane-keeping assist, and BMW’s excellent parking assistant. The 360-degree camera system provides crystal-clear views, making tight manoeuvres surprisingly stress-free, despite the X3’s substantial dimensions. The long-wheelbase version adds 11 cm of rear legroom, transforming the X3 into a genuinely luxurious chauffeur-driven proposition when needed. Rear passengers enjoy generous space, excellent outward visibility, and features like four-zone climate control and heated seats. The 550-litre boot expands to 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded, accommodating everything from weekend luggage to golf bags to with ease.

At Rs.77.8 lakh (ex-showroom), the X3 xDrive20d occupies a compelling position in the luxury SUV segment. It’s more engaging to drive than the Mercedes-Benz GLC, more premium inside than the Audi Q5, and more practical than sportier alternatives like the Porsche Macan. While its styling may divide opinion, there’s no denying the engineering excellence beneath the surface. In a market increasingly dominated by soft, comfort-focused crossovers, the 2025 BMW X3 stands out as a refreshing reminder of what a true Sports Activity Vehicle should be. It’s not just the best-driving SUV in its class — it’s one of the most rewarding vehicles to drive at any price point, regardless of body style. That’s the magic of BMW’s formula, perfected over twenty years and now better than ever.