Summarize

Here’s a car we've all been waiting for, for more than fifteen years - and for three generations of the BMW X3 — enter — at last — the all-new and much anticipated X3 M and BMW X4 M sport activity machines, both of which usher in the most powerful straight-six petrol engine ever to see action in a BMW M car in their Competition incarnations and set to take on the Alfa Romeo Stelvio QV and Mercedes-AMG GLC63.

Powered by M's newly developed high-revving M TwinPower Turbo 3-litre d six churning out 353kW and 600Nm in stock spec, the Competition versions up that a further 22kW to 375kW - or what we used to call 500 horsepower back in the day.

That, BMW suggests propels the newcomers to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds in stock spec, while the Competition packed variants hit 100km/h from rest in just 4.1 seconds from rest.

All versions drink 10.5 litres per 100km and emit 239 g/km CO2 according to those new, more truthful fuel tests and drive a new rear-biased M xDrive all-wheel-drive with an Active M rear Differential for 'sublime dynamics.’ Add sophisticated chassis tech via the M-specific suspension’s electronically controlled dampers, double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle; M-specific steering with Servotronic and variable ratio, powerful M compound brakes and 20-inch M light-alloys.

M xDrive modes, the engine and transmission characteristics, steering set-up and damper can be adjusted at the touch of a button. DSC allows controlled wheel slip in M Dynamic Mode or switched off and optional Head-Up Display can be specified via the iDrive menu and the driver can store two overall favourite set-up optionsin the iDrive menu and select them as and when required using the two steering wheel M buttons. 

All models benefit optimised cooling and aero, while Vernasca leather power sport seats populate an M-specific cockpit alongside an M leather multifunction steering wheel and gear knob. Competition models add a black grille surround, wing mirrors, M gills and rear spoiler, polished Black 21-inch M light-alloys and an M Sport exhaust with an M Carbon exterior package due and extended Merino leather upholstery and optional bi-colour Alcantara applications inside.

All models get LED headlights, a hi-fi speaker system and a ConnectedDrive navigation package including the Navigation system Professional, while options bring individualisation via cutting-edge driver assistance systems and BMW ConnectedDrive digital services. 

The all-new BMW X3 M Competition and the all-new BMW X4 M Competition will be offered in South Africa from the third quarter of 2019 whilst the all-new BMW X3 M and the all-new BMW X4 M follow later. Pricing and local spec will be confirmed in due course.