BMW X3 Model Years and History

Due to its recent redesign in 2024, the X3 goes into 2026 without any significant changes. The X3 M model is not expected to be produced this year and instead the M50i trim takes over as the most powerful X3 M available for this year. Digital key plus is now standard, allowing your phone to act as a key and open the vehicle. The sunroof/convertible roof can now be operated from the key fob, and multiple new active safety features are now standard.

The 2025 BMW X3 maintains its core attributes while introducing updated styling elements and refined technology features. The model preserves its performance characteristics with enhancements to the infotainment system and optional equipment selections.

The BMW X3 and M3 both carry over with minimal changes for 2024.

The BMW X3 and M3 both carry over with minimal changes for 2023.

For 2022, the BMW X3 gets a redesigned exterior, new headlights, a refreshed interior with a new gear shifter and a new 12.3-inch touchscreen.

For 2021, the BMW X3 adds more standard features including Android Auto smartphone connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio and a larger infotainment screen. Active Driving Assistant package now comes standard and includes lane-departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The plug-in hybrid xDrive30e and the M40i models both receive standard a digital gauge display.

The 2020 BMW X3, having just been refreshed just a few years ago, returns for 2020 with no major changes. A new X3 M trim arrives this year. Fitted with standard xDrive and a new B58 twin-turbocharged 3.0L straight 6-cylinder engine that propels the X3 M to 60 mph in as little as 4.0 seconds. Loads of new options and M specific styling come along with the brand-new iteration with pricing starting at just above the $70,000-dollar range.

After a full redesign last year, the BMW X3 returns for 2019 with no major changes.

BMW rolls out its third-generation X3 with a full redesign for 2018. The exterior design sees only minor changes, making it larger overall, with a longer wheelbase and taller glass. This provides for a roomier interior for passengers and more cargo space when needed. New available options, including a tow package, are also available on 2018 models. 2018 also introduces the first M Performance model of the X3, the M40i. This new model offers a more powerful V6 engine as part of it BMW M series performance model.

The BMW X3 remains largely unchanged for 2017. Several updates have been made to the infotainment system to make it faster and easier to use. In addition, the XDrive35i now comes standard with several upscale features; including keyless go, power lumbar support and satellite radio.

Following a 2015 facelift, the BMW X3 hits 2016 with minimal changes. USB and Bluetooth features have been enhanced, including Bluetooth sync for a second phone as well as library browsing via Bluetooth, while the Harman/Kardon surround sound system is now standard on the X3 xDrive35i.

BMW has given the X3 a facelift for 2015, reworking both the interior and exterior styling to make the vehicle look just a bit more up to date. Additionally, several new mechanical configurations are available for 2015. Rear wheel drive will be an option on the 4-cylinder gasoline model, while a new 4-cylinder diesel engine has also been introduced. It promises to improve fuel economy while still providing adequate power.

For 2014, BMW has added a number of additional standard features to the X3, while slightly raising prices. A universal garage-door opener, auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors, ambient lighting, 40/20/40-split folding rear seats, the storage compartment package and BMW Assist Call and TeleService are all now standard. The xDrive 35i now includes trailer hitch pre-wiring, the Technology Package now includes USB and Bluetooth plus full smartphone integration, the Cold Weather Package is more widely available, and Driver Assistance Plus is offered with the Tech Package or with navigation. Otherwise, the M Sport Package is now offered with a wider range of interior trims. Separately, BMW's iDrive interface has been upgraded to version 4.2, which has upgraded maps with 3D city views, an improved menu system, better voice recognition and new split-screen views.

The 2013 BMW X3 receives a brand-new turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, replacing the naturally aspirated 6-cylinder on x3 xDrive28i models. The new engine displaces two liters and makes 240 horsepower, the same number as the outgoing 6-cylinder. However while the old engine made 211 foot pounds of torque, the new 4-cylinder makes 260 foot pounds of torque. This torque is available lower in the rev range as well, making power more accessible for 2013 models.

The 2012 X3 is virtually identical to the 2011 model.

The redesign of the 2011 X3 is a fresh new look and brings the X3 into line with the rest of BMW's vehicles. The 2011 X3 a tad larger than the 2010 version, with an extra three inches in length and one inch in width, yet the price drops about $2000 on the X3 iDrive28i. North America doesn't get the all-new diesel engine -- yet -- but the 3-liter gasoline engine is available with a turbocharger. A new 5-link rear axle system improves the X3's ride, while BMW's evolving iDrive system has finally become intuitive to use.

For 2010, the BMW X3 receives no significant changes.

The BMW X3 after being completely revised two years ago, sees few changes for the 2009 model year. The Mobile Assistance package is no longer available, neither are crimson, silver gray and highland green. In their place are titanium silver, space gray, mineral green and vermillion red.

The BMW X3, completely revised for 2007, sees only minor changes for 2008. Active head restraints are now standard, and there is a new Sport Activity Package that includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 18-inch alloy wheels, running boards, unique trim, and privacy glass. The Premium Package now includes ambient lighting.

The BMW X3 has been completely revised for 2007. It no longer offers a choice of engines, but comes with a powerful 260-horsepower 3.0L six. A six-speed automatic with Steptronic is now available. The front and rear ends have both been revised, along with most of the interior.