BMW’s first ever M Performance X3 will launch in Australia in July, called the X3 M40i, coming as the first proper performance oriented mid-size SUV from the German brand.
Originally revealed last year, the G01 generation X3 M40i is powered by a 3.0-litre ‘B58’ turbocharged inline six engine producing 265kW of power between 5500-6500rpm, and a meaty 500Nm of torque available between 1520-4800rpm.
This is sent through an eight-speed ZF-sourced automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and into an adaptive M xDrive all-wheel drive system. The all-wheel drive system is retuned by M Performance and offers fully-variable drive split, with an M Sport rear differential.
Across the 0-100km/h sprint the clock stops in a claimed 4.8 seconds, making it, officially, the quickest X3 ever introduced. It trumps the until-now flagship X3 xDrive30d and its claimed 0-100km/h time of 5.8 seconds. Despite the awesome performance the X3 M40i comes with an official fuel consumption average of 8.9L/100km.
It doesn’t stop at the engine. M Performance has overhauled the suspension to help provide a 50:50 weight distribution, bringing in adaptive dampers with comfort and sport modes. Stopping power is beefed up thanks to some M Sport multi-piston brakes with the trademark blue calipers.
Visually, the M40i differs from the rest of the range via the standard M Aerodynamics Package, which adds a rear spoiler, a sporty front apron, darkened highlights and the Shadow Line trim, and adaptive LED headlights and LED fog lights. There’s also a set of 21-inch alloy wheels.
The interior is dressed up suitably, with Vernasca leather upholstery, sports seats, M-specific steering wheel, pedals, and door sill plates, while the dash features the flagship 10.25-inch media interface with BMW Connected services. Tunes are played through a 16-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system.
BMW Australia will officially launch the new variant in July. Prices for the complete X3 range including the M40i start from the following (excludes on-road costs):
2018 BMW X3 sDrive20i – $66,900
2018 BMW X3 xDrive20d – $69,900
2018 BMW X3 xDrive30i – $76,900
2018 BMW X3 xDrive30d – $84,900
2018 BMW X3 M40i – $99,900
