Debuting for 2018, the G01 X3 utilized BMW's lightweight CLAR modular platform, reducing overall vehicle weight by up to 55 kg while enhancing chassis rigidity. The exterior design featured three-dimensional kidney grilles, aggressive air intakes, and short front overhangs, achieving an ideal 50:50 weight distribution. Steering precision and chassis dynamic balance were elevated to benchmark status within the competitive midsize luxury category, offering supreme high-speed stability.

Inside, the G01 debuted digitized cockpits, ambient light bars, ventilated seating, and advanced driver assistance systems. This generation broadened its powertrain diversity drastically, offering efficient B48/B58 turbocharged petrol and diesel engines alongside the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid and the battery-electric iX3. Furthermore, it birthed the first full-fledged X3 M model packing the legendary S58 inline-six engine with up to 510 horsepower.