2025 BMW X3 Plug-In Hybrid Dresses Up In Arctic Race Blue

The glory days of the diesel engine are lengthy gone. Gross sales of oil-burners in Europe peaked within the mid-2010s, when any such engine held a market share of over 50% in lots of international locations. The most recent figures revealed by the European Vehicle Producers’ Affiliation present that plug-in hybrid demand is now practically on par with diesel. In Q1 2025, PHEVs accounted for 7.9% of the EU, EFTA, and UK market, whereas diesels captured 8.2% of latest automobile gross sales.

No matter which aspect you’re on, BMW has each segments coated with the fourth-generation X3. The posh SUV is obtainable with four- and six-cylinder diesel engines and an electrified powertrain. New press photographs spotlight the latter, which has been subtly renamed 30e xDrive from the previous-generation xDrive30e.

Automakers usually showcase well-equipped variations of their vehicles, and this X3 isn’t any exception. The plug-in hybrid crossover is completed in optionally available Arctic Race Blue metallic paint and rides on 20-inch (1036 M) wheels. Its blacked-out kidney grille with illuminated contouring isn’t normal, nor are the adaptive LED matrix headlights with blue accents.

Previously, blue lighting particulars signaled laser headlights, however BMW is step by step phasing out that expertise. We nonetheless bear in mind when the Bavarians raced to introduce the first production car with laser lights, the i8, simply edging out the Audi R8 LMX. However I digress.

Inside close-ups reveal how a lot the X3 has modified. It’s uniquely positioned in BMW’s lineup as the one mannequin outfitted with iDrive 9 and a rotary controller. It’s additionally probably the final, because the German automaker prepares to debut iDrive X. When the new iX3 is unveiled in early September, the electrical crossover will forgo the standard dial. The secondary bodily management methodology for the infotainment system is on its method out.

For the Chinese language market, BMW has developed a long-wheelbase version of the X3 that provides additional rear legroom. Rear passengers additionally profit from a extra relaxed seating angle and a thigh assist extension. Sadly, this “G48” variant gained’t be supplied in Europe or North America.

Images: BMW Slovakia / Samuel Zaťko