F25 · X3

What the BMW F25 Is

The BMW F25 is the chassis code for the second generation of the X3, BMW's compact luxury Sports Activity Vehicle. Sold in the United States from 2012 through 2017, the F25 moved the X3 upmarket with a larger footprint, higher-quality interior, and a broader engine lineup than its E83 predecessor. Assembled at BMW's Spartanburg, South Carolina plant, it competed directly against the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLK/GLC while retaining the rear-biased dynamics BMW enthusiasts expect. If you're researching a specific example, run the numbers through our VIN decoder to confirm equipment and build details.

Models & Body Styles in This Generation

The F25 was offered exclusively as a five-door SAV. In the US market, buyers could choose from six model variants:

• X3 sDrive28i — rear-wheel-drive four-cylinder
• X3 xDrive28i and X3 xDrive28i US — all-wheel-drive four-cylinder
• X3 xDrive28d — all-wheel-drive turbodiesel
• X3 xDrive35i and X3 xDrive35i US — all-wheel-drive inline-six

The naming reflects BMW's transition to badges that no longer literally described displacement, part of the brand identity you can explore in our BMW DNA overview.

Engines & Drivetrains Offered

The F25 spanned three powertrain families. The 28i models used BMW's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivering strong torque and respectable fuel economy in both sDrive and xDrive forms. The xDrive28d paired a 2.0-liter turbodiesel with all-wheel drive, prioritizing highway range and low-end pull. At the top, the xDrive35i carried the celebrated turbocharged N55 inline-six, giving the X3 genuinely quick acceleration and the smooth power delivery six-cylinder BMWs are known for.

Nearly the entire range routed power through the ZF eight-speed automatic and, on xDrive cars, BMW's electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. This same family of turbocharged sixes and eight-speed automatics powered contemporary sedans and coupes built around platforms like the earlier E60 5 Series and E63 6 Series.

What It's Like to Own & Buy

The F25 is one of the more practical entry points into modern BMW ownership: it drives like a tall sport sedan, has a usable cargo area, and offers real all-weather capability. The N55-powered xDrive35i is the enthusiast's pick for its performance, while the four-cylinder 28i variants are the value play with lower running costs. As with any used luxury crossover, budget for routine maintenance on cooling, electronics, and turbocharged engines, and prioritize examples with documented service history. A clean, well-kept F25 remains a satisfying, well-rounded daily driver.