The 2025 BMW X3, a newly introduced model, has been affected by a safety recall. This issue, specific to a small number of US-market xDrive30 and X3 M50 variants produced in South Carolina, arises from potential damage to the front passenger airbag fabric during transportation.
The root of the problem lies with a sub supplier and impacts modules supplied by Draexlmaier. This defect could hinder the airbag’s proper deployment in a crash, compromising passenger safety.
BMW has identified seven affected vehicles manufactured between July 16 and August 19, 2024. To rectify the issue, the automaker will replace the faulty airbag modules at no cost to owners.
2025 sees a shift in BMW’s naming conventions, with gasoline-powered X3 models dropping the lowercase ‘i’ as the brand moves away from carburetors. This change aligns with the future, where ‘i’ will exclusively denote electric and fuel cell vehicles.
The X3’s engine lineup also evolves, with the 30i designation now signifying a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, accelerating the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in 6 seconds.
The M50 replaces the M40i, retaining its 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine, now delivering 393 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system.
While rumors suggest the next-generation X3 M might be canceled due to the electric iX3 M, recent confirmations of a twin-turbo inline-six engine for the next M3 and the internal combustion X3’s codename, G97, hint at a potential future for a high-performance X3 M alongside its electric counterpart.
