BMW X3 GETS THE M TREATMENT

The new BMW X3 range is being given the M treatment for the very first time with the announcement of a M40i model. The performance flagship will complete a five-model line-up and includes an injection of Australian DNA having been designed by Australian Calvin Luk.

“We welcome the first-ever M Performance version of the X3, the M40i, to what is a highly competitive market in Australia,” said BMW Group Australia CEO, Marc Werner.

“With that wonderful BMW turbocharged six and a distinctive M Performance look and feel, the M40i is a fantastic combination of versatility, luxury, dynamics and sensational performance” he said.

The BMW X3 range pricing before on roads and options from the bottom to the top includes:

• X3 sDrive20i $66,900
• X3 xDrive20d $69,900
• X3 xDrive30i $76,900
• X3 xDrive30d $84,900
• X3 M40i $99,900

So what extra up-and-go do you get for a 100k X3? The 3.0-litre straight-six turbo petrol engine is boosted to 265kW plus a hefty 500Nm of torque. An eight-speed sports automatic transmission is fitted, including paddle shifters. The M40i as a result is said to sprint to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds. Fuel economy on the combined cycle sits at a claimed 8.9L/100km. Of course, having that M badge requires some neighbour waking sounds from the rear end, a standard M performance exhaust system should do the job.

The car also features launch control and a specifically tuned X Drive AWD system with a fully-variable drive split, meaning whatever wheel needs the most power will get it. The ride and handling is enhanced by standard adaptive M suspension and larger brakes that sit behind 21-inch wheels.

On the outside the BMW X3 M40i sets itself apart with an aerodynamics package including a roof-mounted wing, specific body trim elements finished in Cerium Grey and bold Black Chrome tailpipe treatment.

There are any number of interior upgrades including Vernasca upholstery, a BMW Individual Anthracite headliner, M leather steering wheel, Aluminium trims and Sensatec-covered instrument panel. The harman/kardon system is a 16-speaker setup while the latest iDrive6 infotainment system is fitted.

The BMW X3 M40i’s standard equipment list ticks the following boxes.

• 21-inch M light alloy wheels
• Adaptive M Suspension
• M Sport differential
• M Aerodynamics Package
• M Sport Brake
• M Sport Differential
• ‘Vernasca’ Leather Upholstery
• 16-speaker harman/kardon Surround Sound system
• Navigation system Professional with 10.25-inch touch screen display
• BMW Connected+
• BMW ConnectedDrive Services including real-time traffic information, Intelligent Emergency Call, TeleServices, Remote Services and ConnectedDrive Freedom including Concierge Services.