The BMW X3 Gets A Shot Of Steroid With The Newly Introduced M40i Performance Variant

• BMW X3 M40i launched in India at Rs 86.5 lakh. 
• Comes to India as a fully imported model in limited numbers. 
• Powered by a 3-litre turbo-petrol engine putting out 360PS and 500Nm. 
• Does 0-100kmph in 4.9 seconds and maxes out at 250kmph. 
• Gets updates underneath the skin for a more involving driving experience. 
• Exterior and interior design touches revamped for a sportier look. 

BMW has given the X3 SUV a shot of steroids with the introduction of the new performance-based variant, the M40i. Mind you, this isn’t the full fledged X3 M that was available with the pre-facelift model, but still has enough firepower to keep you excited. The M40i is the pole sitter in the X3 range and comes to India in limited numbers as a fully imported model. 

Here’s where it sits in the X3 lineup:

At the moment, the X3 M40i is the only petrol variant of the SUV that’s on sale. So if you’re looking for a petrol-powered X3, you’ve no other choice but to pick the performance-based variant. 

But why not? The heart of the matter is underneath the hood, courtesy of the 3-litre six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine from the M340i putting out 360PS and 500Nm. While torque numbers are the same as the sedan, its power is down by 14PS. Nevertheless, this firecracker of an engine still manages to catapult the X3 from nought to 100kmph in just 4.9 seconds, with the top speed of 250kmph. 

To support all that extra shove on hand, there are some changes done underneath the skin for a more involving driving experience. For starters, the steering rack has been revised for quicker turn in, while the adaptive suspension means you can keep it stiff for attacking twisties or soften down for a better ride. Then there’s the M Sport differential that directs power to the wheels with more grip. And lastly, to slow down, you get upgraded brakes as well. 

With all that performance, you need to have looks to match the show. And the X3 gets M-specific updates for a sportier look. For starters, the blacked out grille and the aggressively styled front bumpers give the front a sporty demeanour. And in profile, the M-branded 20-inch alloys give the SUV a nice hunkered-down stance. 

On the inside, the performance SUV’s all-black cabin gets M-branded steering wheel and seat belts. Also, the trim in the centre console is finished in carbon fibre that dials up the sportiness in the cabin. Rest of the dashboard layout and design is very identical to what you get in the standard X3.

The new BMW X3 M40i locks horns with the Porsche Macan and Mercedes-AMG GLC.