BMW X3 M Review, Specs & Performance

Overview of the BMW X3 M

ENGINES AND PERFORMANCE FOR THE BMW X3 M

There's a new 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 503bhp to deliver the great levels of fun in the excellent contract hire BMW X3 M. The 0 to 62 mph sprint time is just 4.1 seconds, and the engine produces a pleasing note when put under pressure.

With the all-wheel drive offering, plus the slew of safety kit including skid prevention and traction control and the responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, means the X3 M can deliver all of its performance with lots of grip to underpin driving confidence.

One downside to having a powerful engine is fuel economy of 28mpg, and emissions of 239g/km. The X3 M has a top speed of 174mph.

EQUIPMENT AND HANDLING FOR THE BMW X3 M

Perhaps the best reason for leasing the BMW X3 M is to enjoy the turbocharged engine and the 3.0-litre offering which is a great performer across a range of revs. The exhaust pops and crackles with gear changing or accelerating to make this an excellent SUV for fun, handling and agility.

The driver has a good view of the road from the high-seated position with accurate steering feedback. On long journeys, the X3 M is a rewarding and comfortable car, and the steering and suspension delivers an enjoyable ride around town.

The interior has been well-designed with a mix of styles both old and new, and it certainly meets the demands of driving enthusiasts wanting to put this SUV through spaces, especially with the stylish rev counter.

Standard equipment includes adaptive LED headlights, 21-inch alloy wheels and a black exterior trim. There's also folding door mirrors, a top-end sound system and the options include having a carbon fibre and Alcantara interior trim.

While the X3 M shares the same platform as the BMW 5 Series, there's more legroom for occupants in the spacious SUV and the boot is a useful 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded flat. This model is also rated for towing at up to 2,500 kg.

Safety is underpinned with the X3 sibling enjoying a five-star crash test rating from Euro NCAP. Standard safety features include autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, speed limit information, plus lane departure warning.

Options include front cross-traffic warning, lane keeping assist - and there's semi-autonomous driving with BMW's Driving System Plus.

Essentially, the BMW X3 M is an SUV that offers practicality and speed in a comfortable and refined setting, and for those who want a thoroughbred BMW M vehicle that just happens to be an excellent family runabout, then the X3 M is a sound choice.