After teasing us with the camouflaged versions of the X3 M and the X4 M, BMW has finally launched the performance SUVs along with their competition siblings to take on the Mercedes-AMG GLC63 and the new Porsche Macan Turbo. This is for the first time that the mid-sized SUVs get the M-badging.
Powering the BMWs is an all-new 3-litre straight-six, twin-turbo engine delivering 476bhp and 600Nm of peak twist to all the wheels. And if that’s not enough, the cars get a competition version too with an impressive 506bhp paired to an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic gearbox. The M cars sprint from naught to 100kmph in 4.2 seconds, while the Competition avatar is a second faster. The new engine features a forged crankshaft, a 3D printed cylinder head, and new high-pressure injection system. The competition variants get 21-inch wheels while the standard variants get 20-inch wheel. Dropping the anchor are 395mm discs with four-piston calipers at the front with 375mm discs at the rear.
Electronics include DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), which can be switched off. The M xDrive system has a rear –wheel bias and offers two AWD driving modes. The suspension too gets three selectable settings enable the electronically controlled dampers to adjust as per the driver’s requirement. The iDrive menu offers you customisation of the heads up display and also store two overall set-up options.
The X3 M and the X4 M models are a visual treat and feature the M-style aero bodywork with larger air intakes in the front bumper with a rear diffuser and roof spoiler. The cars, in their Competition avatar get M’s high gloss black finish for the grille surround, mirror caps and M gills on the front wings. BMW also offers an exterior M Carbon package as an option. The interiors feature leather and Alcantara while the Competition models get dual tone leather options. The M tag also gets these cars the bucket-style M-Sport seats.
Though there is no word about their debut in the country, we hope that these cars make it our shores by the end of this year.