HIGH-PERFORMANCE FOR THE BMW X3.

The first BMW M high-performance model based on the X3 was delivered with a newly developed inline six-cylinder engine, the most powerful BMW six-cylinder engine at the time. Compared with the base engine, the S58 differs by approximately 90 percent and features a twin turbocharger, forged crankshafts, and special coolant channels in the cylinder head to cope with the charge of high-performance operation. Due to its performance and durability, the S58 was also installed in modified form in the BMW M2 G87, BMW M3 G80/G81, and BMW M4 G82/G83.

The six-cylinder engine in the X3 M F97 draws an impressive 353 kW (480 hp), or 375 kW (510 hp) in the Competition model, from its 3.0-liter displacement. Both engines feature twin turbochargers with M TwinPower Turbo technology and produce a torque of 600 Nm, which is available in the X3 M across a wide rev range between 2,600 and 5,600 rpm and even extends to 5,950 rpm in the Competition model. The drive units reach their respective maximum power at 6,250 rpm. Their vehement power delivery does not stop until the maximum of 7,200 rpm is reached.

To ensure maximum driving pleasure, the high-performance SAV features a range of M specific measures, some of which are technologies that have been tested on the racetrack.

For optimum transmission of the considerable drive forces, the BMW X3 M F97 is equipped with the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and the model-specific M xDrive all-wheel drive system with rear-wheel bias.

To enhance its driving dynamics, the sporty SAV also features a newly developed M specific suspension with electronically controlled dampers. In addition, the vehicle is equipped with M specific kinematics and elastokinematics for the front and rear axles, which adjust camber and toe depending on the driving situation, further optimizing driving dynamics. The M specific steering, an M compound brake system with blue brake calipers, and additional struts such as the M precision strut in the engine compartment further contribute to improving handling and driving behaviour, even in highly dynamic driving situations.

A cooling and oil supply concept tested on the racetrack ensures that the high-revving S58 engine of the F97 always operates under optimal conditions. A dual-flow exhaust system with four tailpipes, perfectly adjusted to the inline six-cylinder engine, contributes to the distinctive sound that rounds off the driving experience.

The interior of the BMW X3 M F97 is both luxurious and sporty. The typical M cockpit features an M specific instrument cluster, two M Drive buttons for direct activation of pre-stored vehicle configurations and the M gear selector. It also features interior trim strips in Aluminium carbon structure. Behind the M leather steering wheel with shift paddles, the driver takes their place in sports seats in Vernasca leather with embossed M logo in the backrest. M sports seats with a distinctive bucket seat character in the extended, bicolour Merino leather upholstery are available as an option; they are standard equipment in the X3 M Competition.

The interior also highlights the everyday practicality of the high-performance SAV. With space for five people and a boot capacity of 550 litres – which can be expanded to up to 1,600 litres by folding down the rear seats – the X3 M is also ideal for longer journeys and trips.

In June 2021, M GmbH unveiled an update to the BMW X3 M Competition F97. The most striking new features at the front include the kidney grille, headlights and front apron. The enlarged kidney grille now has a one-piece frame, which, like the M typical double kidney bars, is finished in High-gloss Black. The kidney grille is also adorned with an X3 M logo. The standard adaptive LED headlights with matrix function are around ten millimetres flatter, reinforcing the modern, powerful look of the model update. The ensemble of striking new features is rounded off by the M specific front apron, which creates an even more expressive effect with its new vertically arranged air intakes. For the first time, BMW Laser Light was made available as an option for the facelift model.

The rear of the model update also features distinctive design modifications. These include the newly designed standard full-LED rear lights, which are three-dimensionally modelled and, like the headlights, are narrower. The new rear apron in M specific design catches the eye with its High-gloss Black paint finish and widened diffuser.