2020 BMW X3 M and X4 M brings unwanted heat to the compact SUV market

2020 BMW X3 M and X4 M brings unwanted heat to the compact SUV market

 If  there is an automotive segment that can use some panache, it’s the crossover market which is now flooded with a large number of models, most of which are more or less similar in character. BMW has high hopes to add the required spice to this class of cars with their new offerings. With up to 503 hp under their hood, the 2020 BMW X3 M and X4 M debuts along with a plethora of other performance upgrades. 

The X3 M and X4 M does not shy away when it comes to power as the 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-six engine churns out 473 hp along with 600 Nm of torque. The Competition versions of these manic compact SUVs raise the bar even further with 503 hp. This is good for a run from 0 to 100 kph in just over 4 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 kph, which can be raised to 280 kph (285 kph in the Competition models) if you opt for the optional M Driver’s package. An eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with a manual mode comes standard across the range. Both these cars come with M xDrive all-wheel-drive system which gets different drive modes that help lay the power down on the tarmac effectively.

The chassis of the X3 and X4 M gets extra bracing to hike up the torsional stiffness. There are electronically controlled dampers which gets three modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport+. The suspension and brakes obviously get updates too.

With all this muscle under the hood, these M models rightly need beefier bodywork to stand apart from the normal pack of crossovers. BMW has given the twins updated front and rear fascia that announces their “M” identity. There is an M-specific body color, Donington Grey metallic, available exclusively for these models along with 7 other shades. The interior gets updates in the form of a new instrument cluster, steering wheel and M Sport seats in the Competition model.

While these vehicles seem competent on paper, the real question is whether anyone asked for a performance crossover in the first place.

What do you think?

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Comments

  1. When it comes to power and handling BMW is one of the best

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