Two years after the launch of the latest-generation BMW X3M, M fans have been introduced to the updated 2022 BMW X3M Competition and we recently had the chance to spend some time with it.
Life comes in stages and the car you drive, in most cases, should match the stage you’re in. For M drivers that grew up and now have more responsibility than when they drove an M3 or M4, the X3M Competition is ready to take you and your family from point A to point B and beyond. The obvious reason you’d grab an X3M Competition is its space, a spacious trunk that can haul whatever you or the family needs. But this isn’t a caravan, no. It’s a rocketship that’s more raw than even its X3M counterpart and ready to deliver the joy your M coupe or sedan once did.
Power from the enhanced 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline six helps to deliver 503HP and 479 lb-ft of torque and take the BMW X3M Competition from 0-60mph in only 3.7 seconds. It reaches a top speed of 155mph, which can be upgraded to 177mph with the optional M Driver’s Package.
Improvements to the S58 engine include a forged lightweight crankshaft with an extremely torsion-resistant design to bring drivers optimized output and high combustion pressure. Developed using 3D printing technology, engineers were able to reduce the weight of the cylinder head core’s weight and optimize the coolant duct layout for better air intake.
The Competition package champions the M Sport Exhaust System which enriches the sound characteristics of the X3M, giving it a motor racing-like sound while retaining practicality. Drivers can choose from SPORT and SPORT+ modes over the standard setting. We lived in these modes, just so there was a constant readying of the propellers. And just so we’re clear, COMFORT mode isn’t that cushy and we’re glad it’s not.
Though comfort might not be standard, a near-perfect fun factor is. Mating the X3M Competition’s electronically controlled M xDrive with the Dynamic Stability Control system, the driver controls just how forgiving this beast’s traction should be.
Looking at the magnificent exterior, the X3M Competition is mean. The aggressive appearance is led by an enlarged BMW kidney grille and adaptive LED lights framed by black trim elements. It has eight paint finishes available and features an M-specific roof spoiler. New colors include Carbon Black metallic, Brooklyn Grey metallic and Sao Paulo Yellow. We tested the 2022 BMW X3M Competition in this Frozen Marina Bay Blue Metallic finish and don’t think there’s a color option more appropriate for what is one of the most head-bending cars in the German automaker’s lineup.
Step inside and you’ll see a driver-centric cabin that can comfortably seat four adults. Power M sports seats with extended Merino leather are painted in black and yellow and fitted with electrically adjustable headrests and illuminated M logos. The X3M Competition also gets enhanced BMW M stripes in the seatbelts.
Comfort features in the X3M Competition are plentiful, ranging from Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity as well as digital solutions like BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, Connected Music, and Remote Software Upgrade.
The BMW X3M starts at $69,000 and climbs to $80K+ when you tack on the $7,000 Competition Package and other bits like the M Driver’s Package. Visit your local BMW dealer to inquire about availability.
