BMW X3 WITH M PERFORMANCE DEBUT.
Launched as the X3 lineup’s first M Performance model, the BMW X3 M40i G01 set new standards with impressive driving dynamics and exclusive equipment features.
8 January 2026
The third BMW X3 is the first with M Performance. In 2017, M GmbH closed the gap for customers who were looking for a mid-range SAV that offered the proven everyday practicality of the BMW X family alongside the typical driving dynamics of a BMW M Performance vehicle. The performance of its inline six-cylinder engine, developed for sustained pulling power across a broad rev range, confidently positioned the BMW X3 M40i G01 at the top end of the model portfolio.
5 POWERFUL FACTS:
- First BMW X3 M Performance model
- Newly developed 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine
- Max. output: 265 kW (360 hp)
- From 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds
- Top speed 250 km/h
TOP MODEL IN THE MID-RANGE CLASS.
TOP MODEL IN THE MID-RANGE CLASS.
The first M Performance vehicle in the X3 family is powered by a newly developed M Performance inline six-cylinder engine, which is tuned for maximum revving and superior pulling power. The power of the 3.0-liter engine is noticeable even at low revs. The impressive torque of 500 Nm is available from 1,520 rpm and extends up to 4,800 rpm. M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology with TwinScroll turbocharging ensures smooth power delivery. The BMW X3 M40i G01 generates its maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp) from 5,500 to 6,500 rpm, demonstrating the engine’s high revving ability. At the same time, the powerful six-cylinder engine impresses with its smooth running and exceptional efficiency. The outstanding aerodynamics of the body, which delivered a cw value of 0.29, the best in its class at the time, make an additional contribution to efficiency.
The M specific equipment features do not stop at the drive system. The X3 M40i G01 comes standard with a flap-controlled M Sport exhaust system, M Sport brakes, and an M Sport suspension with specific M Performance tuning. The adaptive M Sport suspension was available as an option, offering an even greater spread between driving comfort and sportiness.
SAV WITH FASCINATING DRIVING DYNAMICS.
SAV WITH FASCINATING DRIVING DYNAMICS.
The performance specs of the BMW X3 M40i G01 also underlined its leading position in the segment when it was launched in 2017. Powerful and equipped with the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system as standard, the mid-size SAV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. The testers at the German car magazine “auto motor sport” even completed the sprint in just 4.6 seconds during a series of tests. This means that the five-seater delivered the best performance figures for a premium mid-size SAV outside the high-performance segment.
The electronically limited top speed is 250 km/h. The 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with Launch Control and the significantly rear-biased BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system further optimise the dynamic driving experience and ensure the typical M level of driving dynamics, agility, and traction.
VISIBLE M PERFORMANCE.
VISIBLE M PERFORMANCE.
As the first M Performance model in the X3 family, the BMW X3 M40i G01 makes its origins clear right from the start: galvanised design elements in Cerium Grey on the BMW kidney grille and side gills identify the SAV as an M Performance vehicle. The dual-flow M sports exhaust system with black chrome trim and the M Sport brakes with brake calipers in M blue or red also testify to its origins. The brake discs are generously dimensioned with an extremely low weight, which translates into optimum controllability in dynamic driving situations and confident braking in the BMW X3 M40i G01.
In addition to typical BMW driver orientation, the cockpit is characterised by numerous M exclusive equipment highlights. As soon as you get in, the door sill finishers with “M40i” lettering catch the eye. The standard sports seats ensure driving comfort and optimum lateral support, especially during dynamic driving. Other features that hint at the increased performance potential of the BMW X3 M40i are the M badges on the M Sport leather steering wheel and on the centre console, whose shift area is also framed in piano black.
ALSO AVAILABLE AS M PERFORMANCE DIESEL.
ALSO AVAILABLE AS M PERFORMANCE DIESEL.
In summer 2018, M GmbH followed up with a variant of the performance model featuring a diesel engine. Like its petrol-powered precursor, the BMW X3 M40d attracts attention with its impressive performance figures. The 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine delivers 240 kW (326 hp) at 4,400 rpm and produces a full 680 Nm of torque from 1,750 to 2,750 rpm. This enables the diesel SAV to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, not least thanks to standard features such as BMW xDrive and the 8-speed Sport Steptronic transmission. The top speed, electronically limited, is 250 km/h.
Just like its petrol-powered counterpart, the BMW X3 M40d G01 comes with all the M specific equipment, such as the design elements in Cerium Gray, painted brake calipers, various M badges, and sporty interior features.
SPORTLICHER ALLROUNDER.
As you would expect from BMW M, the BMW X3 M40i G01 M combines typical performance with everyday practicality. The mid-range SAV offers space for five people, a payload of 640 kilograms, and a trunk volume of between 550 and 1,600 litres. And if you still need more storage space, an additional 100 kilograms can be transported on the roof. This makes the BMW X3 M40i G01 a compelling combination of sportiness and everyday practicality.
The 2021 model update presented the BMW X3 M40i G01 with a redesigned front end.
MORE SPORTY AND MODERN.
MORE SPORTY AND MODERN.
New look, improved features: in 2021, M GmbH gave the BMW X3 M40i G01 an extensive facelift as part of its model update. A redesigned front and a revised rear end emphasise the robust off-road look and sporty appearance of the successful Sports Activity Vehicle even more clearly at first glance.
Design changes to the front and rear give the BMW X3 M40i a more modern and striking appeal. A newly designed BMW kidney grille with M logo, flatter headlights and a new front apron signal greater sportiness. In addition to a chrome frame, the specific BMW M kidney grille features the M typical double kidney bars in high-gloss black with an M logo. The aerodynamically optimised M exterior mirrors in high-gloss black complement the upgraded dynamic appearance.
In line with the new front, the modified graphics of the three-dimensional full LED rear lights give the revised rear end of the model update a more powerful appearance. This impression is rounded off by the exhaust system with tailpipe trims in black chrome in a striking ‘two teeth’ design.
HYBRID TECHNOLOGY AS STANDARD.
HYBRID TECHNOLOGY AS STANDARD.
With the model update, the BMW X3 M40i G01 was equipped with mild hybrid technology as standard. In coasting mode, when the accelerator pedal is not engaged, the 48-volt starter-generator converts kinetic energy into electricity, which is stored in a 48-volt battery. The stored energy not only supplies the 12-volt electrical system, but is also made available for the combustion engine. The 48-volt starter-generator produces an electric boost and delivers an instantly available output of an extra 8 kW (11 hp), letting the engine operate more often in its efficiency-optimised load range and reduce consumption peaks.
The performance figures of the BMW X3 M40i G01 also received a boost. During a test drive performed by the magazine ‘auto motor sport’, the updated model completed the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds and broke the 200 km/h mark in well under 20 seconds, clocking in at 17.7 seconds.
DIESEL WITH UPGRADE.
DIESEL WITH UPGRADE.
The BMW X3 M40d also benefited from the model update, which included a modern redesign of the exterior and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, as well as improvements to the diesel engine. This now delivers 250 kW (340 hp), with torque rising to an impressive 700 Nm, available between 1,750 and 2,250 rpm.
SUCCESSFUL M PERFORMANCE LAUNCH.
With the first BMW X3 with M Performance, M GmbH once again successfully expanded its portfolio to include another segment and further extended its leadership in the premium mid-range SAV segment. The BMW X3 M40i G01 and BMW X3 M40d G01 set new standards with their superior performance combined with practicality, making them attractive options for drivers seeking uncompromising performance in everyday use.
