BMW: Strong performance with X3 M and X4 M
NEARLY EVERYTHING IS OPEN For premium customers, the terms SUV, all-wheel drive and performance count. The X3 M and X4 M models from BMW M GmbH are an impressive combination of these. Low-slung add-on parts, wide tires with 20 or 21 inches and a four-pipe exhaust system make it clear at first glance that [...]
Low-slung add-on parts, wide tires with 20 or 21 inches and a four-pipe exhaust system make it clear at first glance that there is no mundane volume engine working under the hood - but a high-performance machine that noticeably raises the bar in the segment.
Up to 510 hp power is on offer
The new three-liter inline-six features a forged crankshaft, Valvetronic valve train and double-Vanos camshaft phasing. At the market launch in September, BMW will deliver the sister models in two output levels: In the basic version, the power unit produces 480 hp, while the upper expansion stage, which is used in the Competition models, boosts output to 510 hp. In the 480 hp entry-level models, the sprint from zero to 100 km/h takes a full 4.2 seconds, while the Competition variants are a tenth of a second faster. At extra cost, the V-max can be increased from 250 km/h to 280 km/h, and even to 285 km/h in the Competition models.
The all-wheel drive system comes from the BMW M5
Power is transmitted to all four wheels by an eight-speed automatic with direct drive through in sixth gear. The all-wheel drive is derived from the all-wheel drive system of the BMW M5 and coupled to an active rear differential. The chassis also borrows from the M5. The suspension features M-specific kinematics, and additional struts in the front and rear significantly increase torsional rigidity. M-specific damper control and independent power steering provide n more precise handling. Prices start at 99,900 (X3 M) and 102,400 Swiss francs (X4 M).
