The new BMW X3 started sales in China 14,250 USD cheaper than in Germany
The new locally assembled BMW X3 started sales in China with a starting price of 349,900 yuan (48,000 USD). It is 14,250 USD cheaper than the BMW X3 G45 in Germany. Moreover, the Chinese modification has a 111-mm longer wheelbase to provide more room for second-row passengers.
The BMW X3 is assembled in China at the BMW-Brilliance factory in Shenyang, Liaoning province. This vehicle was adjusted for the needs of the Chinese market by stretching the wheelbase by 111 mm. As a result, the China-made X3 has the G48 codename while the global iteration of this car is known by the G45 number. The entry-level BMW X3 will start deliveries in China in May 2025.
More about the BMW X3 in China
The BMW-Brilliance-made BMW X3 aligns with a global variant in terms of exterior styling. It adopts a large kidney grille with active air intake, distinguishing headlights, flush door headlights, and silver accents around the body. The car is also available with the M-Sport exterior kit.
As mentioned, the Chinese BMW X3 is larger than its global sibling. The SUV from the BMW-Brilliance boasts dimensions of 4865/1920/1664 mm with a wheelbase of 2975 mm. It is 90 mm longer than the X3 G45. Moreover, the wheelbase of the G48 is similar to the BMW X5 (G05). So, we can say that the Chinese BMW X3 is a large luxury SUV.
The BMW X3 G48’s interior follows the brand’s design language with a large curved display. It is actually a block of two screens: a 12.3-inch instrument panel and a 14.9-inch main touchscreen. The BMW X3 also has a D-shaped three-spoke steering wheel, a small gear shifter at the center tunnel, and a crystal infotainment controller. The mentioned 111-mm wheelbase increase can be seen in the rear seats of the car.
The BMW X3 has two powertrain options in China: 25L and 30L. The entry-level car adopts a 2-liter turbocharged ICE for 140 kW (188 hp) and 310 Nm paired with xDrive 4WD and the 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox. The G48 speeds up to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. The second variant of the X3 provides a 2-liter ICE for 190 kW (255 hp) and 400 Nm. This internal combustion engine is also paired with the 8AT. The BMW X3 30L’s zero-to-hundred acceleration time is 6.6 seconds.
BMW X3 trims and prices in China
The entry-level BMW X3 xDrive 25L costs 349,900 yuan (48,000 USD) in China. This trim level goes standard with 19-inch wheels, five cameras, twelve ultrasonic radars, a sunroof, heated front seats, and six speakers. For comparison, the entry-level BMW X3 G45 starts at 59,400 EUR (62,250 USD) in Germany. So, the Chinese variant is 14,250 USD cheaper. The X3 xDrive 25L will start deliveries in May this year.
The BMW X3 xDrive 30L M-Sport adopts a more powerful electric motor, the M-Sport exterior kit, 20-inch rims, and twelve Harman/Kardon speakers. This trim level costs 399,900 yuan (54,850 USD) in China. The top-trim BMW X3 30L Leading M-Sport has the same powertrain, six cameras, lane change assistance, adaptive headlights, a sky lounge, sports seats, and a head-up display. This model costs 449,900 yuan (61,700 USD).
Editor’s comment
The BMW X3 G48’s price is reasonable. However, the price segment of this crossover is crowded with Chinese NEV crossovers, including Li Auto L7, Aito M7, Nio ES6, and Xpeng G9. They offer impressive powertrain specs, high-quality materials, and good energy efficiency. BMW still has a strong brand’s halo in China. But the equally-priced Chinese crossovers are a huge threat for the recently launched X3 G48.
