2020 BMW X3 M Preview, Specs, Release Date

Dubbed as the performance version of the regular 2020 BMW X3 model, the 2020 BMW X3 M is the M powered SUV that holds a seating capacity for five across two rows. The X3 M distinguishes itself from the X3 through features like exclusive color choices, blacked-out front grille, and larger air vents. The exclusively available Carbon exterior package adds a rear diffuser, mirror caps, and carbon fiver-clad intakes. BMW will commence the production at its Spartanburg, South Carolina assembly line by April 2019.

2020 BMW X3 M Engine Details

The X3 M's engine comprises of a new S58 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six that churns out 473 horsepower. The competition trim achieves the optimum power output of 503 hp, while the torque remains unchanged at 442 pound-feet. All X3 M models are configured with all-wheel drive and feature an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

The SUV takes 4.1 seconds to touch 60 mph from a halt, while the Competition trim manages to complete it in flat four seconds. The top speed has been electronically limited to 155 miles per hour for the standard X3 M, while the Competition trim is capable to make up to 177 mph. The 2020 X3 M features an electronically controlled limited-slip differential alongside bigger M compound brakes, special dampers, and staggered tires. The competition trim comes with larger 21-inch wheels as standard.

2020 BMW X3 M Interior Details

Talking about the interior, the X3 M shares most of the features with the regular X3 model. It features M badging across the cabin along with ample leather trim, a leather M steering wheel, and a leather-wrapped M shifter. Other standard features include Power sports seats, keyless entry, navigation, a 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, a color head-up display (HUD), Apple CarPlay, and ambient lighting. The Competition trim offers exclusive door sill plates and carbon fiber trim for the door panels. In order to make it look more practical, the carmaker has provided cargo space of 28.7 cubic feet behind the second-row seats, which can be stretched to 62.7 cubic feet with the folded seats.

2020 BMW X3 M Safety Features

Major Standard items shipped with the BMW X3 M include adaptive LED headlights, Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, and navigation. The safety features include adaptive cruise, automatic parking, heated seats, a head-up display, wireless charging, Wi-Fi, and gesture control are available as add-ons. Both the gauge cluster and head-up display have been tailored to the X3 M, with special content including a shift indicator.

The X3 M is yet to undergo crash testing as it is quite new, but the standard X3 has built a decent reputation with a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The X3 M comes with standard safety features like a frontal-collision warning and an active-driving assist. The optional features include active cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-change warning are all available as options.

2020 BMW X3 M Release Date

The BMW X3 M will be welcomed by a hefty high-performance version of compact luxury SUVs that are already available in the market. The SUVs like Porsche Macan Turbo and Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 63 offer tempting features with performance. The car shall make its way to the U.S showroom by the end of 2019.