BMW introduces M Performance variants of X3 and X4

2019 BMW X3M and X4M

The 2019 BMW X3M and X4M.

BMW has shown time and time again that it is not in the business of producing dull crossovers. Need further proof? For the first time, the company is rolling out M versions of the X3 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and the X4 Sports Activity Coupe (SAC).

 

Powering these high output machines is the most powerful straight-six engine made yet. The 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo pushes a total of 480 horses and 442 lb-ft of torque and is mated to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. In typical BMW fashion, the xDrive all-wheel drive system is rear biased to provide a sportier ride, sending torque to any of the four corners when extra traction is needed, and helps the two vehicles rocket from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds.

To tailor the driving experience, users can select one of three different adjustable suspension settings providing various degrees of comfort and agility. Similarly, a M Dynamic Mode can be toggled on or off, the former allowing increased throttle response and controlled wheel slip for increased fun when the road turns windy.

2019 BMW X4M and X3M

Both the SAV and SAC already look fantastic, but the signature M treatment kicks things up a notch. Big air intakes, 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels, unique badging and quad-tailpipe M sport exhaust all set the model apart. Expected this summer, an available M Carbon exterior package adds carbon fibre trim to the front bumper, mirror caps and rear valance. Inside, electric sport seats, Vernasca leather upholstery, M leather steering wheel and shift knob create a luxurious and performance-oriented cabin.

Releasing alongside are the X3 M and X4 M Competition variants featuring 30 more horsepower, as well as additional exterior flourishes including gloss black kidney grille and two exclusive paint colours, 21-inch polished black twin-spoke wheels and more.

Posted by Benjamin Yong

Benjamin Yong is a freelance journalist and communications professional living in Richmond, B.C. He is often found writing about cars and the auto industry, amongst other things, or driving around in his work-in-progress 1990 Mazda MX-5. Twitter: @b_yong Instagram: @popuplights