The BMW X3 M dials up huge levels of performance without compromising an ounce of practicality. The engine is a near masterpiece, and the drivetrain fights hard to ensure optimal (and fun) use of all its prodigious power. But its dedication to performance comes at the cost of traditional luxury SUV strengths such as comfort. Simply put, the ride is quite brittle on anything but a perfectly smooth surface. If you want something a little less punishing, consider getting a regular X3 in M40i guise.Read full review
Local Trade In! 2020 BMW X3 M with only 38,000 miles! <br>Executive Package, Panoramic moonroof, Navigation system, M Sport Seats, Harman Kardon surrou...
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16 Combined MPG (14 City/19 Highway)
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16 Combined MPG (14 City/19 Highway)
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VIN: 5YMTS0C03L9B29928 Stock: 26202024 Certified Pre-Owned: No
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Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
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Frame Damage: No
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16 Combined MPG (14 City/19 Highway)
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VIN: 5YMTS0C06L9B67413 Stock: 26097878 Certified Pre-Owned: No
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16 Combined MPG (14 City/19 Highway)
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AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
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Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
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16 Combined MPG (14 City/19 Highway)
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VIN: 5YMTS0C03LLA57986 Stock: 25309267 Certified Pre-Owned: No
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).
Pros
Wickedly quick acceleration
Grip and handling are excellent
Still as practical as a standard X3
Cons
Excessively stiff ride, even in the softest suspension setting
Exhaust can drone at highway speeds
Jumpy throttle makes it tricky to accelerate smoothly
What's new
All-new M version of the X3 SUV
Up to 503 hp from turbocharged six-cylinder engine
Part of the third X3 generation introduced for 2018
Overview
Since its 2018 redesign, the BMW X3 small SUV has had two engine choices on tap: a fuel-efficient four-cylinder and a more powerful six-cylinder. But what if you wanted something with even more muscle, a X3 M with a six-pack and Hulk Holgan's 24-inch pythons? Well, so sorry. But that finally changes for 2020 — the BMW X3 M has arrived.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 BMW X3 M 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.90 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Under the hood is a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder. That's the same basic specification as the engine in the X3 M40i, but in actuality it's a new engine specific to BMW M models. It cranks out 473 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. You can also opt for the X3 M Competition version that makes 503 hp. BMW has also upgraded the chassis and suspension and fitted more powerful brakes.
Basically, the X3 M is the beneficiary of the classic M vehicle formula used for other well-known models such as the M3 sedan and X5 M SUV. How great is it? Is the stiff ride a deal-breaker? Check out our rating to find out.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Good
7.9
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The BMW X3 M dials up huge levels of performance without compromising an ounce of practicality. The engine is a near masterpiece, and the drivetrain fights hard to ensure optimal (and fun) use of all its prodigious power. But its dedication to performance comes at the cost of traditional luxury SUV strengths such as comfort. Simply put, the ride is quite brittle on anything but a perfectly smooth surface. If you want something a little less punishing, consider getting a regular X3 in M40i guise.
How does the X3 M drive? This hopped-up X3 does its M badge justice. We tested the Competition model with its 503-horsepower motor. In our testing, it sprinted to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and ripped through the quarter-mile in 11.9 seconds at an impressive 116.4 mph. It's fast, though other high-performance SUVs are similar — the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 63 S and Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio logged identical 0-60 sprints of 3.5 seconds.
Braking performance is impressive. Our X3 M stopped from 60 mph in a scant 104 feet. The brakes are also smooth in daily driving situations. High levels of grip are on offer, and the X3 M pulled a stunning 0.99 g on the skidpad. As exciting as all that grip may be, the X3 M, like BMWs in general, offers nearly zero feedback through the steering wheel. That critical lack of feel can prevent you from having the utmost confidence during spirited driving.
Around town, you'd be hard-pressed to remember you're in a 503-hp SUV. The main issue is a trigger-happy gas pedal. It's tricky to pull away from a stop smoothly.
Comfort
7/10
How comfortable is the X3 M? The X3 M Competition has special sport front seats. They're comfortable and remain so after long distances. They also have heating and ventilation, although we found the ventilation fans to be a bit noisy.
It's a good thing the seats are as comfortable as they are because the ride most certainly is not. You expect to have a firm ride in such a high-performance vehicle, but the X3 M Competition's ride borders on punishing on anything but an immaculate surface.
This SUV, though, is remarkably quiet. The only constant source of noise is roar from the wide performance tires. Engine noise is nicely subdued with just enough growl to enhance the driving experience without being obnoxious.
Interior
8/10
How’s the interior? The X3 M has the same general interior design as the regular X3. One noticeable difference is the gear shifter, which is the same one BMW puts in the M5. It has a unique gear-selection pattern that continually caught us out. Can we just have a normal shifter, please?
The other sources of frustration are also located in the center console area. The high-gloss black plastic around the shift lever causes excessive glare on sunny days. Also, there are too many flush-mounted buttons. Their similar shape and size make it difficult to locate the right one while you're driving. Otherwise, all the hallmarks of a standard X3 are here, including a spacious interior for all passengers, expansive forward and side visibility, and a comfortable driving position.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? The X3 M uses the same infotainment system as the standard X3. That's a good thing — we like the crisp graphics and fairly intuitive and easy-to-use control knob. Unfortunately, the system doesn't support Android Auto smartphone integration, though it should be coming for 2021. Wireless Apple CarPlay is included, and wireless charging and onboard Wi-Fi are options.
The X3 M also comes with a high-quality Harman Kardon audio system and BMW's excellent voice recognition system. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability is still part of an option package. We experienced a few false alarms from the X3's frontal collision mitigation system (it applies the brakes automatically to stop the vehicle to avoid or minimize a collision) that resulted in unneeded braking.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? BMW didn't diminish the X3's already excellent practicality in the conversion to M duty. There's still 28.7 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats. Fold them down and you get 62.7 cubic feet of space. That's considerably more than competitors such as the Porsche Macan Turbo, Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 63 and Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio.
Up front, there's ample space from various pockets and cubbies to store smaller items. Even rear passengers have fairly generous door pockets for drinks and larger items. And thanks to the spacious back seat and easy-to-access anchor points, installing a child safety seat is straightforward.
Fuel Economy
7/10
How’s the fuel economy? The X3 M Competition has an EPA estimate of just 16 mpg combined (14 city/19 highway). But in our time with this super SUV, we found it quite easy to exceed the EPA's estimates. On our 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route, we saw a credible 19.1 mpg. And that included some fairly brisk driving. City mileage was closer to 16 mpg, but if you use a light foot, the X3 M won't need fuel as often as you might expect.
Value
7.5/10
Is the X3 M a good value? With the X3 M40i offering a good deal of performance and the X3 M Competition not offering much in the way of luxurious upgrades, you might wonder if the M Competition's extra price is worth the money. But if you're into high-performance hardware, the M Competition is worth every penny. From the bespoke motor to the trick M5-sourced driveline parts, the M Competition delivers the goods and is definitely special.
Even with all the unique performance parts and amazing engine, BMW still offers its standard warranties of four years/50,000 miles for basic and powertrain protection. That's average for the segment, but the four years/unlimited miles of roadside assistance and three years/36,000 miles of free maintenance are above average.
Wildcard
9/10
If you set out to build a perfect modern-day sleeper — something capable of incredible speed but without any hint of its capability — you'd likely wind up with the X3 M Competition. The engine makes a thumping 503 hp yet uses a stealthy exhaust system so as to not alert the authorities (or your neighbors). It rivals an all-wheel-drive sports car in traction and handling capabilities too.
There are other high-performance SUVs that shout louder and likely handle a bit better, but the low-key packaging of the X3 M and tremendous performance envelope make this SUV a compelling option.
Which X3 M does Edmunds recommend?
If you're upgrading from the standard X3 to the X3 M, it might be tempting to turn the dial up to 11 and opt for the X3 M Competition. But this SUV already has a pretty harsh ride quality and opting for the Competition just makes it worse. We think the setup is a little too hardcore for most buyers. Stick with the standard X3 M instead.
2020 BMW X3 M models
The 2020 BMW X3 M is a high-performance version of the BMW X3 crossover. Two versions are available: the standard X3 M and the even more potent X3 M Competition. Both use a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that powers all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. It develops 473 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque in the X3 M. The Competition bumps output to 503 hp, while torque remains the same.
X3 M Standard features for the X3 M include:
20-inch wheels
Adaptive LED headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Adaptive suspension dampers
Power liftgate
Auto-dimming mirrors
Three-zone climate control
Heated sport front seats
Leather upholstery
10.25-inch touchscreen
Navigation system
16-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system
Wireless Apple CarPlay
The X3 M also comes with a number of advanced safety systems, such as:
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
Front and rear parking sensors (alerts you to obstacles that may not be visible behind or in front of the vehicle when parking)
X3 M Competition The X3 M Competition is distinguished from the standard X3 M by its:
More powerful engine
21-inch wheels
Thicker suspension stabilizer bars
Sport exhaust
Black-painted exterior trim
Upgraded sport seats
Premium leather upholstery
In typical BMW fashion, the X3 M is offered with a few packages and stand-alone options. These include:
Driving Assistance Plus package
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the X3 M and the car in front)
A more advanced version of the forward collision mitigation system
Executive package
Panoramic sunroof
Heated steering wheel
Heated rear seats
Wireless charging pad
Wi-Fi hotspot
Rear side window shades
Gesture control (allows you to control certain aspects of the infotainment system by gesturing in the air)
360-degree camera (gives you a bird's-eye view of the car for tight parking situations)
Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with no driver intervention)
Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line onto the windshield)
Ventilated front seats
Carbon-fiber exterior accents
Upgraded sport seats (X3 M only)
See Edmunds pricing data
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My last car was an Alfa Romeo Guilia Quadrifoglio and was fun and super fast. I traded it for this practical SUV that is just as fast in a straight line and handles turns better than most sport cars. It can haul stuff and I even go camping in this thing. Almost super car speed for a reasonable price! Out performs G Wagon for a fraction of the price and way more fun as a daily driver. … Very nimble and has a great exhaust! Not quite the track animal the Alfa is but much more practical. Stick with the M over the M Competition for a little softer ride.
5 out of 5 stars
A surprisingly good value
Shawnski, 09/10/2020
2020 BMW X3 M Competition 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
If you need an SUV for whatever reason, the X3M is a good compromise is you are used to sports cars/sedans. Its practical, good visibility and unlike to many cars today (I am looking at you 992 911) it has real character and is fun even when obeying traffic laws. I have to say its an impressive car for the money that is practical and a hoot to drive!
Update 3/10/22: We still enjoy … the car and fits our current needs. Fuel economy is averaging a little less than 19 MPG, that and expected tire life are the really 2 biggest demerits and worth it if driven the way it’s intended. A hardcore sports SUV that is comfortable.
5 out of 5 stars
2020 BMW X3 M COMPETITION IS A PERFECT MONSTER
Lord Todd L. , 07/25/2020
2020 BMW X3 M Competition 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
I'm a life long Porsche guy and was ready for a change for a daily driver. I'm very brand loyal and had a Cayenne Turbo S that I loved but before getting a new one I wanted to see what else was out there to compare as I like performance. I looked at many options and let me say the x3M competition is scary fast and mind blowing. The technology it so impressive and then driving it I was … sold its truly unreal the performance of this thing! DO yourself a favor dont think about it and just buy one!
5 out of 5 stars
Just plain awesome, practical too!
MB, 09/29/2020
2020 BMW X3 M 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
So much fun to drive and you really get a lot for the price! In addition, there is plenty of space in the rear and even more with the seats dropped.
I have a car seat installed in mine and I can still fit three across the rear seat. Would buy this car again. The only minor complaint I have is that comfort suspension mode is still really stiff. But at the same time economy engine mode … is still really quick. Engineers probably had to stiffen it all up to keep it from rolling when the throttle opens. Which, by the way, it hangs on the road like a high end sports car which is a really strange feeling in an SUV. Awesome vehicle!
Drag Race! Tesla Model Y vs. BMW X3 M vs. Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 63
This race was a lot of fun for us. Not only for the obvious reasons (hello, fast!) but because it gave us a chance to talk about sound, exteriors, and different ways the manufacturers approach performance, such as launch control settings and drive modes.
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