00:55 01-09-2025

2025 BMW X3 clears updated IIHS tests: safety and headlights verdict

The 2025 BMW X3 has cleared the updated IIHS crash test, reinforcing its safety credentials. In the moderate overlap evaluation, the rear-seat dummy kept a safe distance from the front seatback, and the seatbelts stayed properly positioned, which reduces the risk of head, neck, and chest injuries. Given how the refreshed protocol emphasizes back-seat protection, that’s reassuring.

The institute also reported strong results in vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian crash avoidance. At the same time, seat-belt reminders were judged only acceptable, a reminder that everyday usability details still matter alongside structural performance.

Not everything impressed. Standard LED headlights received an acceptable rating due to glare and limited high-beam reach, while versions with the M Sport Professional package were rated poor for excessive glare. The takeaway is straightforward: the lighting setup could use additional tuning, particularly on the sportier trims.

Unveiled in summer 2024, the new-generation BMW X3 sits on the CLAR platform and comes exclusively with xDrive all-wheel drive. In 30 xDrive form, it delivers 255 hp and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds, while the M50 xDrive offers 393 hp and does the same run in 4.4 seconds. Despite the performance gap, fuel consumption remains close—7.1 versus 7.8 L/100 km—which should appeal to buyers balancing pace with efficiency.