BMW’s hardcore X3 M SUV has well and truly evolved since it first hit forecourts almost two decades ago.
And now, particularly in range-topping ‘Competition’ trim, the X3 M is quicker and more exhilarating than ever before.
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The X3 M sits in the BMW range just behind the X4 M and X5 M Competition models.
The year 2021 brought a significant facelift for the agile SUV, which saw changes to the exterior that included a larger kidney grille and an all-round more striking front section.
There’s an all-new front apron and vertically arranged, elongated side air intakes, while the lower section of the rear apron is M specific and finished in high-gloss black.
A large diffuser is flanked on the right and left by the twin tailpipes from the M sports exhaust system, which are finished in black chrome.
And if you step inside the cabin you expect BMW’s fully-connected ‘Live Cockpit Professional’ system with intelligent networking, as well as a Harman Kardon surround sound system as standard. The BMW Operating System 7 now also includes Remote Software Upgrade, ensuring that your all-important tech is bang up to date.
But while we can talk about the way the car looks all we want, at the beating heart of the all-wheel-drive X3 M is the pure power from the engine - and there’s plenty of it.
The X3 M40d uses a diesel unit that generates 340 hp and which can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 4.9 seconds while still returning around 40 miles to the gallon. The X3 M40i features a petrol engine instead, developing 360 hp and sharing the same sprint time as its diesel sibling.
At the top of the tree is the X3 M Competition. Here a high-revving six-cylinder petrol mill with a peak power output of 510hp and torque of up to 650Nm does the damage. It’ll lunge from 0 to 62mph in 3.8 seconds – a 0.3-second improvement compared to past incarnations, largely thanks to a new forged lightweight crankshaft.
And because the xDrive all-wheel drive system has something of a rear-wheel bias, you get the ‘proven dynamic qualities of classic rear-wheel drive’, something that BMW fans in particular will crave
A key rival to the likes of the Macan GTS and the Mercedes-AMG GLC63, a BMW X3 M lease should be on every petrolhead’s wish list.
If you have a question on any BMW X3 model or trim, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our helpful leasing consultants on: 0118 467 8139 or send an email to enquiries@selectcarleasing.co.uk
- Car Leasing Category: SUV
- Boot size: 550 litres
- Engine Options: Petrol mild hybrid.
- NCAP Safety Rating: Five stars (for the regular BMW X3)
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