BMW X3 F25

BMW F25 was the second generation of the X3 series of compact SUVs. The SUV debuted at the Paris Motor Show in 2010. The car replaced the previous version E83, the production of which was established in Austria. BMW X3 F25 shows an example of successful combination of classic design and sportiness of Bavarian. By all characteristics, the crossover belongs to the luxury class.

BMW X3 F25 is now assembled in the USA and India. According to feedback from owners, after the change of localization of the car plant, the quality of interior trim has decreased, as Americans do not pay due attention to the plastic used. For the domestic market, the crossover is assembled at the Avtotor plant in Kaliningrad.

Exterior

The review of the BMW X3 F25 SUV shows that the car has undergone numerous changes, which are impossible not to notice. The front part of the car has the brand’s signature radiator grille with minor updates. The beveled grille has a chrome trim, below which there are air intakes that have a similar chrome finish.

The design of the front optical system of the BMW X3 F25 has become more aggressive, in addition, the manufacturers have upgraded it with LEDs. LED fog lights are installed under the headlights. The design of the bumper has been updated, it began to look more powerful and aggressive, the manufacturers have equipped it with a lot of aerodynamic details. A lot of chrome inserts on the body surface, as well as clear lines of the hood give the SUV a sporty style.

Looking at the photo of the BMW X3 F25 in profile, the powerful wheel arches, as well as unique body lines, which gives the exterior dynamism. The rear part of the body is characterized by expressive horizontal lines, which provide the effect of light and shadows.

The exterior has become almost completely reminiscent of the X5, but the fundamental difference is in the dimensions of the BMW X3 F25.  Dimensions of the SUV BMW X3 F25 in length are 4652 mm, body width – 1881 mm, height – 1687 mm. The size of the wheelbase has increased in contrast to the previous model and amounted to 2810 mm. The volume of the fuel tank is 67 liters, and with the economical fuel consumption of this model, this indicator will be more than enough. The curb weight of the crossover is about 2300 kg. At the same time, dynamics and controllability of the car remain at a decent level due to the powerful characteristics of the motor and the presence of many auxiliary electronic systems. The car is equipped with wheel disks of 17 inches in diameter, on more expensive, top kits BMW X3 F25 wheels are put 18-inch.

The ground clearance of the BMW X3 F25 is also greater than that of the previous version, 21.2 cm. Nevertheless, despite the high ground clearance and flat underbody, the car cannot boast good cross-country ability. BMW X3 F25 is suitable for overcoming only light off-road. The reason is the absence of reduction gear and rigid differential lock. If desired, the clearance can always be increased thanks to spacers on shock absorbers. It is worth noting that this measure will significantly reduce stability on the road, as well as maneuverability. To reduce the ground clearance of the BMW X3 F25, it will be necessary to replace the standard shock absorbers with tuning ones. This will significantly improve the characteristics of handling and stability.

The body of the BMW X3 F25 is resistant to corrosion, in addition, the quality of metal used by manufacturers is at a high level. However, according to the owners’ reviews, the disadvantage of the body surface is the occurrence of chips, swellings, primarily in the area of the hood, rear door. Thus, it is important to monitor the condition of the paintwork and, if necessary, to patch up any damage in time.

Interior

The interior of the BMW X3 F25 is unrecognizable in comparison with the previous model. The predecessor was often criticized for the cramped interior, as well as the small capacity of the luggage compartment. Manufacturers have taken into account the feedback of owners and corrected the shortcomings. Despite the longitudinal location of the engine, which, according to the idea, should slightly reduce the space in the cabin of BMW X3 F25, passengers feel quite comfortable and cozy inside BMW X3 F25. Even a tall person seated behind the driver will find no reason to complain, as there is as much as 73 centimeters of free space.

Ergonomics of the driver’s seat is at the highest level. The car is equipped with adjustable seat, steering wheel, instrument panel, which is characterized by readability and informativeness. There is a Start/Stop system, which allows you to stop the engine when braking and restart it when releasing the brake pedal. This allows you to save fuel while traveling. If necessary, the function can be deactivated by pressing the corresponding button.

The center console is equipped with buttons for selecting one of three driving styles: Normal, Sport, Sport+. Increase of sportiness of the car gives the suspension stiffness, sharpness of reaction to the steering turn, change of the transmission mode. Updated three-spoke multi-controller with electric power steering has become easier to use. In addition, the design of door panels has changed.

On the modified, refined front panel there is an 8.8-inch iDrive controller screen, which displays all the work and control of the car, as well as the navigation system. A 12-inch display is available for more expensive configurations.

In addition, the manufacturers have taken care of the luggage compartment capacity. The dimensions of the trunk of the BMW X3 F25 have increased to 550 liters. For necessity of transportation of large cargoes it is possible to fold the rear row of seats, thanks to what more than three times will increase the space of a luggage compartment, up to 1600 liters. Under the floor is the battery. On the right side of the trunk there is access to open the fuel tank hatch. In addition, the BMW X3 F25 is equipped with an electrically operated luggage compartment lid. According to the owner’s reviews, the drive cylinders gradually fail during operation.

According to BMW X3 II F25 owners’ reviews, the disadvantage of the interior is the panel creaking over time. In addition, there is a single crackling of leather seat upholstery.

Engines

The BMW X3 F25 crossover is equipped with four- and six-cylinder gasoline powertrains. Modification iDrive20i is equipped with a two-liter turbocharged engine with an output of 184 horsepower, iDrive28i goes in tandem with a 245-horsepower motor. These units are considered base units and are equipped with Twin Power Turbo Twin Scroll. They feature direct injection as well as a Valvetronic system.

The less powerful version of the BMW X3 F25 28i is able to accelerate to a hundred in 8.4 seconds at a top speed of 210 km/h, which is a good result for a crossover. Average gasoline consumption is 7.7 liters per 100 km of travel. The modification is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.

The second modification of the BMW X3 F25 SUV starts from a place to 100 km in only 6.9 seconds with a maximum speed of 210 km/hour. Fuel consumption in mixed mode does not exceed 7.3 km. This version of the motor is equipped with an eight-band automatic.

According to the owners’ feedback, the more powerful unit among the basic modifications brings more problems. The rapid failure of the oil pump is of particular concern. The malfunction can be identified by the occurrence of extraneous howling at increasing revolutions. As a result, the turbocharger wears out prematurely, oil consumption increases, and the engine rarely, but rarely, jams.

The charged modification iDrive35i is equipped with a three-liter engine with an output of up to 306 horses. The installation has turbocharging, direct injection, Valvetronic system. This modification is devoid of serious faults, which gives it a significant advantage over its brethren. However, this version is few in our country and is subject to a fairly high transportation tax. This motor works in tandem with an eight-band Steptronic automatic transmission. The engine accelerates to a hundred in just 5.7 seconds at a maximum speed of 245 km/hour. The average gasoline consumption on this modification is 8.8 liters.

The engine lineup of the BMW X3 F25 also includes diesel units. The sDrive18d modification is equipped with a 143 horsepower motor, while the xDrive20d version comes with a two-liter 184-horsepower unit. Engines have a turbocharger, direct fuel injection. The first modification was delivered only to European countries and was only rear-wheel drive.

The BMW X3 II F25 20d xDrive is considered to be the base model among diesel units. The motor accelerates to a hundred in 8.5 seconds at a top speed of 210 km/h. Diesel consumption in mixed mode on the BMW X3 20d F25 is 5.6 kilometers per 100 kilometers of travel. The unit works in tandem with a six-speed manual or eight-range automatic transmission.

More expensive diesel versions of BMW X3 F25 are called xDrive30d and xDrive35d. The first modification is equipped with a three-liter unit with an output of 258 horses, the second – 313 horsepower with a working volume of 3.0 liters. Engines have two turbochargers and direct injection system. Modification xDrive30d is able to develop up to 232 km / h, and acceleration to 100 is carried out in 5.9 seconds. The BMW X3 F25 3.0 d is quite economical, as it spends no more than 5.6 liters of diesel on the highway and 6.5 liters within the city. The motor comes with an eight-speed automatic.

The xDrive35d version develops up to 245 km/h, with the engine accelerating to 100 km in 5.3 seconds. Diesel consumption does not exceed 6.7 liters in the mixed cycle. The motor works in conjunction with an eight-band automatic transmission.

When buying a BMW X3 F25 2.0 d, it is important to change the oil in time to avoid problems. Otherwise, there may be problems with the timing chain, the repair of which will cost the owner a large sum. In addition, the disadvantage of 2.0d at 184 hp is the clogging of the particulate filter, arising due to frequent trips around the city.

Synthetic engine oil of viscosity 15W40, 10W40, 10W50, 15W50, 0W30, 0W40, 20W40, 25W40 is suitable for BMW X3 F25 engines. The oil in the BMW X3 F25 should be changed on average every 10,000 kilometers or after one year of operation.

Technical specifications

As for the technical specifications of the BMW X3 F25, the SUV has all-wheel drive. Engines of the crossover are completed with a six-speed manual or an eight-range automatic. For an additional cost there is a modification with a sporty automatic transmission, equipped with paddle shifters. It is recommended to change the oil in the automatic transmission after 50 000 km of mileage. Problems of BMW X3 F25 are associated with defects of the all-wheel drive system, which manifests itself in jolts when driving with fully turned wheels.

Instead of the classic power steering, the manufacturer has equipped the steering with electric power steering. In addition, the BMW X3 F25 has an improved suspension variation. In front is installed a two-lever Mac Ferson scheme with transverse and diagonal levers, behind – five-lever. This design, according to BMW X3 F25 owners’ reviews, provides a comfortable and convenient ride. As a rule, the suspension does not cause problems up to 100,000 km of mileage, then the silent blocks and shock absorbers should be replaced.

Electronics

The BMW X3 F25 crossover is equipped with a variety of auxiliary functions that make the driver’s work easier and ensure a comfortable ride. There is the Start-Stop function, which allows the engine to be switched off when the brake is applied, e.g. in traffic, and restarted when the brake pedal is released.

The side mirrors of the BMW X3 F25 have a repeating turn signal with integrated LEDs. The car boasts the Smart Opener system, which opens the luggage compartment without the involvement of hands, but for example, with a sweep of the leg. The steering wheel works with the help of electric power steering. The SUV is equipped with a power sunroof, adaptive headlights, high beam control function.

As for the shortcomings of the BMW X3 F25 electronics, the rear auxiliary brake light may malfunction due to insufficient sealing of the optical system. If the battery dies quickly, it is necessary to check the correct connection of the power sources.

Options

The basic equipment of the BMW X3 F25 includes many features that can provide a comfortable driving experience. The crossover is equipped with auto locking system, stabilization system, central locking, automatic dual-zone climate control, heated and electrically operated mirrors. Also BMW X3 F25 has front and rear window lifters, hill start assist, 17-inch alloy wheels, anti-theft system working from satellite.

Many options are available for an extra charge, such as cruise control, a sport automatic transmission, interior lighting, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

As a safety system, the BMW X3 F25 has front and side airbags, belt tensioners, and rear row child seat anchors.

Difference between restyling and prerestyling

In 2014, the BMW X3 F25 crossover underwent a facelift. From the previous model, the SUV was distinguished by an updated optical system and bumper. The technical specifications of the BMW X3 ii F25 restyling have undergone major changes. Gasoline engines no longer have a 258-horsepower unit in their arsenal. The line of diesel motors is represented by two modifications. The first is represented by a two-liter engine, squeezing out up to 190 horses. The motor is completed with a six-speed gearbox or eight-range automatic.

The second version is represented by a three-liter unit with an output of up to 313 horses. The engine works in conjunction with an automatic transmission.

Generations and configurations

2 generation – restyling

06.2014 – 11.2017

2 generation

11.2010 – 05.2014