One of the prominent German carmakers, BMW has launched the sportier variant of their X3 SUV. The newly launched variant of the X3 is known as the M40i. BMW will import this model in limited numbers to India via the CBU route. In contrast, the carmaker commenced the bookings last month via its BMW online shop platform.
The exterior of the BMW X3 M40i
BMW has tweaked the exterior of the X3 to distinguish it from its regular version. The M40i variant features the M kit which enhances the sporty character of the SUV. Upfront, the SUV gets a high-gloss black kidney grille with a BMW M badge, matrix LED headlights and fat bumpers. The SUV also features a dark tint on the M shadow line headlamps.
Meanwhile, the German carmaker has enhanced its sporty character with M-spec ORVMs, 20-inch M-light alloys and M-Sport brake callipers. On the rear, the M40i variant of the X3 features slim LED taillights and a sporty bumper with black chrome tailpipes. And the striking twin-tooth muffler provides a distinctive sporty profile.
Interior and Features of BMW X3 M40i
BMW has revised the interiors of the M40i variant of the X3 SUV. This variant features M-spec leather upholstery on the sporty steering wheel and the seats. Moreover, the leather upholstery features M-coloured contrast stitching enhancing the attention to detail of the SUV. Some of the tech features include the 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and wireless charging.
The Infotainment system is mated to a 16-speaker Harman Kardon-sourced music system and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other features include electric adjustment of seats, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, three-zone automatic climate control, paddle shifters, cruise control etc.
The Powertrain
The M40i variant of the X3 features a bigger engine and a tweaked gearbox. The heart of the matter is a 3.0L 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine unleashing 360hp and 500nm of output. However, the powertrain is coupled to an 8-Speed Automatic Transmission and an Xdrive AWD system. This results in a 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/hr.
The M40i variant features new driving modes such as Comfort, Eco Pro, Sport, and Sport Plus. Moreover, the carmaker has tweaked the adaptive suspension of the X3 M40i for better aerodynamics ensuring a balanced ride and handling. And the X3 m40i features variable sport steering providing precise handling with an agile response.
Pricing and Competition
BMW has priced the X3 M40i at Rs. 86.50 lakhs ex-showroom. The BMW X3 will continue to compete with Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60 in India.
Official Statement
Mr. Vikram Pawah, President of BMW Group India said, “Engineered by M, the first-ever BMW X3 M40i xDrive elevates the sporty, modern BMW X3 to the realm of M. Its introduction builds on the enormous success of M-powered vehicles and the growing popularity of exclusive M Editions in India. With its phenomenal engine power, fine-tuned handling, and an appearance designed by BMW M – the first-ever BMW X3 M40i is a dominating force, no matter where the road leads. This new M interpretation of the BMW X3 takes the excitement a notch higher into the Sports Activity Vehicle range.”