For the BMW SUV owner that believes 300bhp is insufficient, X4 M and X3 M Competition

Power is a strange desire, in which adequate is seldom enough, writes Iain Robertson, a factor that entices the German carmakers into producing surfeit models, where the available punch is enough to scare users; BMW is not alone.

For the first time, BMW M is expanding its high-performance line-up to include the X3 M and X4 M Competition models and both will herald the arrival of a newly developed six-cylinder engine where 3D printing has been utilised in its production. The X3 M Competition, BMW’s midsize SUV, and the X4 M Competition, a coupe-bodied alternative, are powered by the high-revving engine that features track-proven cooling and oil supply systems, as well as the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology. Generating an astonishing 510bhp, the 3.0-litre in-line petrol engine has a peak torque of 442lbs ft, while a dual-branch exhaust system provides the aural delights.


  


The ongoing development of M TwinPower Turbo technology, coupled with the inclusion of two particulate filters and four catalytic converters, ensures that the high-performance, lightweight unit can claim remarkable efficiency and exceptionally low emissions for an engine of its capacity. BMW’s long-standing efficiency remit means that its official combined fuel consumption is around 26.9mpg, with CO2 emissions of 239g/km.


  


The use of cutting-edge technology is at BMW’s heart and the cylinder head has a core manufactured using 3D printing. Interestingly, this additional manufacturing process enables geometric forms to be created that are beyond the capability of conventional metal casting techniques. 3D printing technology has also cut the weight of the new engine’s cylinder head core and allowed its coolant ducts to be routed in a way that optimises temperature management, which is a significant pay-off.


  


The six-pot unit serves up its maximum punch between 2,600 and 5,950rpm, with another 300rpm in reserve, before reaching the redline at a howling 7,300rpm. Both models despatch the 0-60mph benchmark in a mere 3.8s, although their top speeds are electronically governed to 155mph. If the optional M Driver’s Package is specified (which will be available from August 2019), top speed rises to 174mph and the customer receives the chance to participate in an M Intensive Training in the UK, by which to hone their driving skills. How many will, or should, take-up this option remains to be seen.



Naturally, there is a hefty (pre-discount) price to pay, with the X3 M Competition tagged at £77,070 and the X4 alternative weighing in at £2,920 more. All of that power is channelled through an 8-speed automatic transmission, with paddle-shifters and there three shift-speed modes, from smooth to joltingly quick. Naturally, 4WD is standard, which helps with both traction and stability, although the M Dynamic chassis setting will create a more track-focussed power split.



Crammed with BMW technology, the usual plethora of lane discipline, blind-spot awareness and adaptive cruise control will do their level best to keep most aspects on the straight and narrow. However, with access to such an enormous amount of potency, the capabilities of these new models will vary from sporty shopping car to cruise missile potential. Take care out there!

MSG Summary

Not one but two ‘Competition’ designated derivatives of BMW’s important midfielder gives added choice to potential acquirers. Yet, you cannot help but ask, when will this search for ever more power cease? We guess, when buyers stop requesting it. 

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