The BMW X3 M Competition is an innovative 503bhp SUV

You hardly need us to tell you about BMW’s iconic M division, do you? Ever since the wedge-tastic M1 supercar from the late 1970s, BMW M has been making ultimate versions of the Ultimate Driving Machine.

The M range has grown rapidly since that first offering too, now encompassing everything from sports saloons to practical SUVs. And whilst they may come in many forms, M cars still have that one unique feeling that just can’t be found outside of Bavaria.

That’s where this model comes in – the incredibly powerful and innovative BMW X3 M. Let’s run through the headline stats first…

Exceptional figures

In the UK we get the most powerful X3 M available – the X3 M Competition. Under the bonnet is a twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six engine producing 503bhp and 443lb ft of torque. That power is then sent to all four wheels using BMW’s ultra-clever xDrive system and a super-smooth eight-speed M Steptronic automatic gearbox. From a standstill, the X3 M Competition will reach 62mph in 4.1 seconds and, when fitted with the optional M Driver’s Package, it’ll run on to an impressive top speed of 174mph. Just take a moment to let that sink in.

Eye-catching looks

The X3 M Competition certainly looks the part too, thanks to an authoritative front end with specially designed air intakes and some muscular bodywork that points to outstanding performance. There’s the exclusive M double bar kidney grille up front too, and a set of unique 21-inch wheels that are just for Competition buyers. At the rear is an M specific roof spoiler and a distinctive rear apron that features a honeycomb diffuser flanked by four 100mm tailpipes. From every angle it’s athletic and looks ready for action.

Performance on tap

Delving into that remarkable engine further also provides the perfect example of how BMW M uses cutting-edge technologies to further performance. The brand-new six-cylinder unit features forged internals and even a 3D printed cylinder head to ensure it’s as light as possible. It won’t reach its redline until a mighty 7,200rpm, and drivers can manually control gearshifts using the steering wheel-mounted paddles or the central M selector lever.

There’s plenty more tech where that came from too. The xDrive all-wheel drive system developed by BMW gives the X3 M Competition a rear-wheel drive feel whilst ensuring that the front wheels can be electronically engaged if additional traction is required. The Active M differential on the rear axle then splits power between each rear wheel, and when combined with the X3 M Competition’s specific chassis tuning it provides outstanding handling for this super-SUV.

The suspension is also M specific and is individually configurable, with Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus settings allowing drivers to control just how they want the car to behave at all times. Oh, and the brakes provide a level of stopping power that really does have to be felt to be believed.

Luxurious interior

The sportiness continues on the inside, with ergonomically optimised M seats trimmed in the finest Merino leather or combined with Alcantara. There’s a clear new configurable digital instrument design too and an M specific head-up display as standard, so your eyes never need to be off the road.

Top spec tech

All of your infotainment needs are satisfied by a rich 10.3-inch touchscreen running BMW’s latest iDrive Operating System 7 software, and there’s the intuitive iDrive clickwheel for even greater control. The X3 M Competition comes as standard with superior driver assistance systems too.

The X3 M Competition is the M car that can do it all. It brings outstanding performance to everyday life, with the power, excitement and dynamics to make every single drive special. But it’s also luxurious and extremely practical – there’s space for five and all of their belongings in the large 550-litre boot.

Ready to book a test drive? Head on over to BMW UK’s site by clicking the link right here. You won’t regret it.