Thinking about buying a luxury SUV? If you’re looking at BMW, you’ve probably noticed the 2025 BMW X3 and the 2024 BMW X7. Both are great choices, but they’re pretty different from each other. The 2025 BMW X3 is perfect if you want something sporty and easy to drive around town. The X7, on the other hand, is BMW’s biggest and fanciest SUV – it’s like the VIP of their lineup.
So which one should you pick? Let’s break down everything you need to know about these two awesome SUVs. By the end of this, you’ll have a clear idea of which one fits your life better.
What’s Under the Hood: Power and Performance
Let’s talk engines – because that’s where BMW really shines. When you’re shopping for a luxury SUV, the engine is like the heart of the whole experience. BMW knows this, which is why they give you choices with both the 2025 BMW X3 and the 2024 BMW X7.
BMW X3 Engine Options: Pick Your Power Level
The 2025 BMW X3 comes in two main flavors, and both are pretty impressive.
The BMW X3 sDrive30i (Base Engine)
The entry-level 2025 BMW X3 sDrive30i has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Now, before you think “only four cylinders?” – this isn’t your dad’s old four-cylinder. This modern turbo engine makes 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
Here’s what that means in real life:
- You can merge onto highways without any stress
- Passing slower cars is quick and confident
- You’ll get to 60 mph from a stop in about 6.6 seconds
- Gas mileage stays reasonable at around 26 mpg combined
- It’s quiet and smooth during normal driving
The “sDrive” part means this version comes with rear-wheel drive instead of all-wheel drive. This helps keep the price down and actually makes the car a bit more fun to drive on dry roads.
The BMW X3 M40i (Performance Engine)
Want more excitement? The X3 M40i steps things up with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This is where the 2025 BMW X3 really shows its sporty side. With 382 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, this engine transforms the X3 into something special.
What you get with the M40i:
- 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds – that’s seriously fast
- A growling exhaust note that sounds amazing
- More power than you’ll ever need for daily driving
- Still reasonable gas mileage for the performance you get
- Standard all-wheel drive for better traction
This engine makes the X3 feel like a sports car that happens to be an SUV. It’s smooth when you’re cruising but gets aggressive when you press the gas pedal.
BMW X7 Engine Options: Built for Luxury and Power
The 2024 BMW X7 takes a different approach because it’s a much bigger vehicle. Think of it this way – you wouldn’t put a motorcycle engine in a truck, right? The X7 needs more power to move its extra size and weight while still feeling smooth and luxurious.
The BMW X7 xDrive40i (Standard Luxury)
The base 2024 BMW X7 comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine making 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. This is actually more powerful than the top X3 engine, which shows you how much muscle this big SUV needs.
What this engine delivers:
- Smooth, effortless acceleration that never feels strained
- Enough power to tow up to 7,500 pounds
- Quiet operation that keeps the cabin peaceful
- 0 to 60 mph in about 5.8 seconds – impressive for such a big vehicle
- Standard all-wheel drive for confident handling
The BMW X7 M60i (Maximum Power)
For people who want the absolute best, the X7 M60i comes with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine. This beast makes 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Those are serious numbers that put this SUV in sports car territory.
Why choose the V8:
- 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds – that’s faster than most sports cars
- Incredible passing power for highway driving
- A distinctive V8 sound that announces your arrival
- Can tow up to 8,500 pounds without breaking a sweat
- Makes the 5,000-pound X7 feel surprisingly nimble
All-Wheel Drive: Why BMW’s xDrive System Matters
Both the 2025 BMW X3 M40i and all 2024 BMW X7 models come standard with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system. The base X3 sDrive30i is the only one that comes with rear-wheel drive, but you can add xDrive as an option.
Here’s why xDrive is worth having:
- Better traction in rain, snow, and ice
- Improved cornering on dry roads
- More confident feeling when driving fast
- Automatically sends power where it’s needed most
- Works so smoothly you won’t even notice it’s there
xDrive isn’t like old-school all-wheel drive systems that hurt gas mileage. BMW’s system is smart enough to send most power to the rear wheels during normal driving, then instantly shift power to all four wheels when needed.
Transmission: The Smooth Operator
Both SUVs come with BMW’s excellent eight-speed automatic transmission. This isn’t just any automatic – it’s one of the best in the business.
What makes this transmission special:
- Shifts are so smooth you barely feel them
- Responds quickly when you need to accelerate
- Has a manual mode if you want to control the shifts yourself
- Helps improve gas mileage by keeping the engine in its sweet spot
- Learns your driving style and adapts over time
Real-World Performance: What It Actually Feels Like
Numbers on paper are one thing, but how do these engines actually feel when you’re driving?
Driving the 2025 BMW X3: The base sDrive30i feels peppy and responsive around town. It’s not going to pin you to your seat, but it never feels slow either. The turbo engine delivers its power smoothly, and you’ll rarely wish you had more power for normal driving.
The M40i is a different animal entirely. Step on the gas and you’ll understand why BMW has such a great reputation for performance. The engine pulls hard all the way to highway speeds and sounds fantastic doing it.
Driving the 2024 BMW X7: Even with the base engine, the X7 feels powerful and smooth. The extra weight means it doesn’t feel as sporty as the X3, but it makes up for it with effortless cruising power. Highway passing is never a problem, and the engine is so quiet you’ll forget it’s working.
The V8 X7 M60i is almost ridiculous in the best way possible. You have enough power to embarrass sports cars at traffic lights, all while sitting in supreme luxury. It’s the kind of performance that makes you smile every time you drive.
Common Questions About These Engines
Do I really need the more powerful engines? For most people, the base engines in both SUVs provide plenty of power. The upgraded engines are more about want than need. If you enjoy driving and want the extra performance, go for it. If you just need reliable transportation with some luxury, the base engines work great.
Will the powerful engines hurt my gas mileage badly? The performance engines do use more gas, but not as much as you might think. BMW’s turbo technology and eight-speed transmission help keep fuel consumption reasonable even with the bigger engines.
Are these engines reliable? BMW has been building these types of engines for years, and they’re generally very reliable with proper maintenance. The turbo engines do require premium gas and regular oil changes, but that’s normal for luxury vehicles.
Can I tow with these SUVs? Yes, both can tow, but the X7 is much better at it. The X3 can handle about 4,400 pounds, while the X7 can tow up to 8,500 pounds with the V8 engine. If you plan to tow a boat or large trailer regularly, the X7 is the way to go.
How They Look: Sporty vs. Bold
Here’s where these two really show their personalities. The 2025 BMW X3 looks athletic and ready for action. It’s got that classic BMW kidney grille, but it’s sized just right – not too big, not too small. The whole SUV has a muscular look that says “I’m fast” without being flashy.
The LED headlights are standard, and they look really sharp. The X3 sits lower to the ground than the X7, which makes it look more like a sports car that got stretched into an SUV.
Now, the 2024 BMW X7 is a completely different story. This thing demands attention. The kidney grille is huge – and I mean HUGE. Some people love it, others think it’s too much, but nobody ignores it. The X7 is tall, wide, and looks expensive from every angle.
Both SUVs are beautiful in their own way. The X3 says “let’s go have some fun,” while the X7 says “I’ve made it, and I want everyone to know.”
Inside Space: Cozy vs. Roomy
This is probably the biggest difference between these two. The 2025 BMW X3 is built for up to five people, and it does a great job with that. The front seats are super comfortable with lots of adjustments. You can even get heating, cooling, and massage functions if you want to treat yourself.
The back seat in the 2025 BMW X3 is pretty good for adults, though really tall people might feel a bit cramped on long trips. For cargo, you get 28.7 cubic feet with the back seats up, or 62.7 cubic feet if you fold them down. That’s enough for groceries, sports gear, or a few suitcases for vacation.
The 2024 BMW X7 is in a whole different league when it comes to space. This thing seats seven people across three rows, and everyone gets to ride in comfort. The second row can be set up as a bench seat for three people or as two individual captain’s chairs – think first-class airplane seats.
Even the third row is actually usable for real adults, not just kids. And when you need cargo space, the X7 delivers. You get 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a massive 90.4 cubic feet with both back rows down.
Tech and Safety: Smart Features for Smart Drivers
BMW doesn’t mess around when it comes to technology. Both the 2025 BMW X3 and 2024 BMW X7 are packed with features that make driving easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Think of these SUVs as smartphones on wheels – they’re that connected and smart.
BMW iDrive: Your Digital Command Center
Both vehicles come with BMW’s latest iDrive system, which is like the brain that controls everything in your car. If you’ve used older BMW systems and found them confusing, don’t worry – the new iDrive is much better.
What Makes iDrive Special
What makes iDrive great:
- The main screen responds to touch like your phone or tablet
- Voice commands actually work well – just say “Hey BMW” and tell it what you want
- The menus are organized logically, so you can find things quickly
- You can customize the home screen with your favorite features
- Updates happen over the air, so your system gets better over time
iDrive in the 2025 BMW X3
The X3 comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen that’s crisp and bright. The system responds quickly when you tap or swipe, and the graphics look modern and clean.
iDrive in the 2024 BMW X7
The X7 steps things up with a larger 14.9-inch touchscreen that curves slightly toward the driver. It’s like having a tablet built into your dashboard.
Smartphone Integration: Stay Connected on the Road
Wireless Connectivity Features
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto:
- Your phone connects automatically when you get in the car
- No cables needed – just hop in and go
- Your music, maps, and messages appear on the car’s screen
- You can use Siri or Google Assistant through the car’s speakers
- Text messages are read aloud, and you can reply using voice commands
When you get in your 2025 BMW X3 or X7, your phone instantly connects. Your Spotify playlist starts playing, your navigation picks up where you left off, and you can make hands-free calls without touching anything.
BMW X3 Technology Features: Smart and Practical
Standard Technology Package
Standard Tech Features:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen with iDrive system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth connectivity for multiple devices
- USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin
- BMW ConnectedDrive services for remote vehicle access
Available Premium Upgrades
Head-Up Display: This projects important information right onto your windshield, so you never have to look away from the road. You’ll see your speed, navigation directions, and incoming calls floating in front of you.
Wireless Phone Charging: Just drop your phone in the special tray, and it charges automatically. No more fumbling with cables or dead phone batteries.
BMW Digital Key Plus: You can unlock and start your car using just your iPhone or Samsung phone. Share digital keys with family members through the BMW app.
BMW X7 Technology: The Ultimate Tech Experience
Advanced Display Technology
Enhanced Display Technology:
- 14.9-inch curved touchscreen that’s stunning to look at
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel
- Optional rear-seat entertainment screens for passengers
Luxury Comfort Features
Panoramic Moonroof: The X7’s massive glass roof makes the cabin feel open and airy. It opens and closes with the touch of a button and has a power sunshade for when you want privacy.
Multi-Zone Climate Control:
- Four-zone automatic climate control comes standard
- Passengers can set their own temperature preferences
- Heated and ventilated seats available for front and rear passengers
Safety Technology: Your Electronic Guardian Angels
Standard Safety Features
BMW Driving Assistant Package (Standard on Both):
Adaptive Cruise Control: Set your desired speed and following distance, and the car automatically maintains a safe gap from the vehicle ahead. In traffic, it can even come to a complete stop and start moving again when traffic clears.
Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assistant: If you start drifting out of your lane without signaling, the system alerts you and can gently steer you back into your lane.
Automatic Emergency Braking: The car constantly scans the road ahead using cameras and sensors. If it detects an imminent collision and you don’t brake in time, it will brake for you.
Blind Spot Monitoring: Lights in your side mirrors warn you when there’s a vehicle in your blind spot.
Advanced Safety Options
BMW Driving Assistant Professional:
- Traffic Jam Assistant that can steer, brake, and accelerate in stop-and-go traffic
- Extended Traffic Jam Assistant for highway driving assistance
- Evasion Assistant that helps you steer around sudden obstacles
Parking and Maneuvering Assistance
Parking Assistant Plus:
- 360-degree camera system with top-down view
- Automatic parallel and perpendicular parking
- Reverse Assistant that remembers your last 50 feet of forward driving
Real-World Safety Performance
Crash Test Excellence
Crash Test Results:
- Five-star overall ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- Top Safety Pick awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
- Advanced airbag systems with multiple stages of deployment
These aren’t just cars that happen to be safe – they’re engineered from the ground up with safety as a top priority.
Common Technology Questions
Technology Reliability and Learning
Is all this technology reliable? BMW has been refining their technology for years, and the current systems are quite reliable. The key is keeping your software updated, which happens automatically when connected to WiFi.
Will I actually use all these features? You might be surprised. Features like adaptive cruise control and wireless phone charging become part of your daily routine once you have them.
How hard is it to learn all these systems? BMW designs their technology to be intuitive. Most people pick up the basics within a few days of ownership.
BMW ConnectedDrive: Your Car in Your Pocket
Remote Control Features
Remote Services:
- Lock or unlock your car from anywhere
- Start the engine to warm up or cool down the cabin
- Check fuel level, tire pressure, and other vehicle status information
- Get maintenance reminders and schedule service appointments
Emergency and Security Services
Emergency Services:
- Automatic crash notification that contacts emergency services
- Roadside assistance at the touch of a button
- Stolen vehicle recovery assistance
These connected services give you peace of mind and make car ownership more convenient. Whether you’re checking if you locked your car from inside a restaurant or starting it remotely on a cold morning, these features quickly become indispensable.
Gas Mileage: Balancing Fun and Efficiency
Let’s be real – neither of these is a Prius. But for luxury SUVs with this much power, they’re pretty reasonable. The 2025 BMW X3 sDrive30i gets about 26 mpg combined, which is really good for this type of vehicle. Even the more powerful M40i version still gets decent mileage.
The 2024 BMW X7 uses more gas because it’s bigger and heavier. The six-cylinder version gets around 23 mpg combined, while the V8 model focuses more on power than saving gas.
Both SUVs have different driving modes, so you can choose “Eco” mode when you want to save gas or “Sport” mode when you want maximum fun.
The Money Talk: What You’re Really Paying For
Here’s the thing about luxury cars – you’re not just buying transportation, you’re buying an experience. The 2025 BMW X3 gives you that BMW experience at a more reasonable price point. You still get the performance, luxury, and prestige, just in a smaller package.
The 2024 BMW X7 costs significantly more, but you’re getting BMW’s absolute best. More space, more luxury, more features, and more presence. If you need what the X7 offers, there really aren’t many vehicles that can match it.
Both hold their value well because BMW has a great reputation. So while you’ll pay more upfront, you’ll get more back when it’s time to trade in.
Which One Should You Choose?
This really comes down to your life and what you need. Pick the 2025 BMW X3 if:
- You want a luxury SUV that’s easy to park and fun to drive
- You mostly drive with just a few people
- You want good gas mileage without giving up performance
- You like the idea of a luxury SUV that doesn’t scream “look at me”
Choose the 2024 BMW X7 if:
- You have a big family or often carry lots of passengers
- You want the most luxurious SUV BMW makes
- You like making a statement when you drive up somewhere
- Space and comfort are more important than sporty handling
The Bottom Line
Both the 2025 BMW X3 and 2024 BMW X7 are fantastic SUVs that show why BMW is famous for making great cars. The 2025 BMW X3 is perfect if you want luxury and performance in a package that works for everyday life. It’s sporty, efficient, and has that special BMW feel that makes driving fun.
The X7 is for people who want the ultimate luxury experience. It’s big, comfortable, and loaded with features that make every drive feel special.
No matter which one you choose, you’re getting a vehicle that BMW spent decades perfecting. Both will give you years of driving pleasure and that special feeling that comes with owning a BMW.
Ready to see which one feels right for you? Contact us or come visit us at Braman BMW of Jupiter and take both for a test drive. Once you get behind the wheel, you’ll know which BMW SUV is calling your name.
