BMW Car Owner Receives a Loaner 2025 X3, yet Experiences Low-Quality Materials in Buttons, Air Vents, and Electronic Features, Leaving a $50K Luxury SUV Feeling Economy-Class.
The latest addition to BMW's SUV lineup, the 2025 X3, has sparked a lively debate among critics and enthusiasts alike. While the vehicle boasts several improvements, it has also stirred concerns about its luxury positioning compared to previous models and competitors.
One of the most notable changes in the 2025 X3 is the shift to an all-touchscreen interface for controls, a move that has been met with mixed reactions. Adjusting simple settings now requires multiple clicks, and the lack of physical buttons and easy memory settings for multiple drivers has proven frustrating for some users.
Another point of contention is the interior material quality. Reviewers have noted a noticeable decline, with traditional trim pieces replaced by textile materials and bold ambient light "crystal" bars. Some find this less luxurious than before, and the fixed moonroof, a downgrade from earlier models, has disappointed some buyers.
The redesign brings improvements in ride comfort and a quieter cabin, with new seats and a wraparound screen praised by some reviewers. The 2025 model also features all-new LED headlights with a distinct stacked L-shape design, enhancing its modern look while maintaining classic BMW cues.
Performance-wise, the sportier M50 variant remains quick and enjoyable, combining the handling of a sports sedan with SUV practicality. However, the driving experience has been criticised as jerky, and the assisted driving features are just fine.
The exterior design of the 2025 X3 is subjective, but it has been criticised for departing from traditional BMW styling. Some enthusiasts call it more "Chinese EV-inspired" and a broader move away from the brand's signature design DNA.
The 2025 X3's tech and connectivity have also been a source of irritation, with reports that Apple CarPlay does not always work immediately. The menu systems are described as overly complex, impeding usability.
Despite these criticisms, the 2025 BMW X3 offers notable improvements in comfort, design, and performance. However, its price tag of around $50,000 has led some to question its luxury appeal, with concerns about its interior quality and the all-touchscreen controls.
In summary, while the 2025 BMW X3 offers notable improvements in comfort, design, and performance, its all-touchscreen controls, reduced interior material quality, fixed moonroof, and some design choices have sparked concerns about its luxury positioning relative to previous models and competitors in the segment.
The concerns about the 2025 BMW X3's luxury positioning extend to its technology as well, with critics finding the all-touchscreen interface complex and cumbersome, and reports of Apple CarPlay issues.
Moreover, the shift in lifestyle options within the vehicle, such as the use of textile materials and bold ambient light "crystal" bars, may be perceived as less luxurious compared to previous models and competitors in the financial sector.
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