BMW X3 M in a class of its own
BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” slogan is an understatement when it comes to the X3 M Competition. It’s a difference-maker in the Bavarian automaker’s original sport utility lineup. The X3’s Sports Activity Vehicle is powerful and a driver’s dream.
The engineers at BMW have what I like to call “withitness” for consumers and provide endless options to keep buyers coming back for more. The X3 M Competition
has that feeling, with unbelievable power and abundant luxury features.
The X3 M confirms it’s a BMW with the easily recognizable front sculpted kidney-shaped grille, one of the most obvious manufacturer identifiers when seen from afar.
BMW’s SUV lineup begins with the subcompact X1 and moves all the way to its third-row people-mover, the X7. The X3 is their midsize SAV competing with our recently tested Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio and Porsche Macan Turbo.
Standard on the X3 M is the throaty M Sport Exhaust system — which roars aggressive tones — Sport Braking, and the M Sport Differential, allowing you to be fast through corners without an ounce of worry as control is always assured.
Powering the BMW X3-M is a 3.0-liter, twin turbo inline six-cylinder engine, matched with an eightspeed Steptronic sport automatic transmission that is nothing short of amazing. The 503 horsepower and 442 lb.-ft. of torque vaulted the vehicle from zero to 60 mph in a scant 3.3 seconds. Wow.
Inside the BMW X3-M is an interior like no other, not even the recently tested Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio can compare. The seats, infotainment system and cabin accoutrements are absolutely fantastic. BMW has the interior designed perfectly.
The X3 is truly a performance SAV and BMW makes sure you know that with its front air curtains and side vehicle live airbreathers. The ride was also notable … the X3 rode like a sedan as weight distribution was nearly perfect for every passenger. There was a bit of a trade-off with its overall stiffness, but that’s because of the emphasis on performance.
Only a few brands rise to the top in this segment.
With the BMW X3-M, there really is no reason to look elsewhere. BMW X3 M MSRP: $76,900 As tested: $84,490 MPG: 14 city; 19 highway; as tested 16.7