BMW X3 M India launch in end-August

The BMW X3 M high-performance SUV will be launched in India soon, and we hear it will be priced very competitively, at around Rs 1.1 crore (ex-showroom), before options. The BMW X3 M was supposed to be launched earlier this year, but has been delayed due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. We tell you everything you need to know.

• Twin-turbo straight-six makes 480hp and 600Nm
• End-August launch with an expected price of Rs 1.1 crore
• Standard X3 M, not X3 M Competition for India initially

BMW X3 M : Engine and gearbox

The BMW X3 M will be powered by a twin-turbo, straight-six engine that makes 480hp and 600Nm of torque. India will only get the standard X3 M to begin with, and not the X3 M Competition, which incidentally makes a higher 510hp. The standard X3 M does the 0-100kph sprint in a claimed 4.2 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 250kph, which can be increased to 280kph with the optional M Driver’s package. 

BMW X3 M : Interior and features

In India, the X3 M will come equipped with the likes of adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic glass roof and the BMW Display key. The SUV will also get features like gesture control, Apple CarPlay and a wireless charging pad. Buyers will also be able to spec their cars with optional interior colours and packages with contrast stitching. However, the X3 M will only get the relatively entry-level Vernasca leather seats, as compared to the higher-quality Nappa leather available on some other cars.

BMW X3 M : Exterior

Compared to the standard BMW X3, the X3 M’s exterior will have larger bumpers with black accents – like a blacked-out grille and black inserts on the front bumper and side vents. The X3 M will also get the signature quad exhaust setup that BMW M cars come with. There will also be a variety of unique colour options to choose from. 

BMW X3 M : Rivals and competition

The BMW X3 M does not have any direct competition in India, both in terms of pricing and performance in India. While a natural rival like the Mercedes-Benz GLC is not offered in the 63 AMG spec in India, and with the Porsche Macan Turbo no longer offered in India either, the X3 M will have the mid-size performance SUV market in the Rs 1 crore price bracket pretty much to itself for the time being.