This is the fourth generation of the luxury all-terrain vehicle best-sold by the Bavarian brand. Its forceful aesthetics harbour brilliant dynamic performance in all aspects, assisted by the most advanced technology which, moreover, provides truly surprising levels of comfort on the move.
From the first moment of contact it is immediately obvious that this is no conventional SUV, quite the opposite in fact. A front view featuring the M50 logo, within the brand’s characteristic large kidney grille with horizontal slats and BMW Iconic Glow lighting, is enough to be sure that we are looking at a powerful model.
The imposing presence with striking side skirts and a roofline that extends to the rear are distinctive features of the sportier silhouette of the new X3.
It comes with adaptive L-shaped LED headlights as standard with multiple options that guarantee excellent illumination in all driving conditions, while the generous wheel arches further accentuate the considerable width of the rear, housing 21-inch wheels and M Sport braking systems.
The external dimensions have increased with respect to the previous version, with a total length of 4.76 metres and width of 1.92 metres, allowing for wider tracks and the consequent gain in stability on the road, as well as a sportier appearance. It is very striking that despite its emphatic appearance, an aerodynamic coefficient of 0.28 has been achieved.
The wheelbase has also been increased, improving the interior space and comfort, which is further enhanced by the large glass surface area and the electric sunroof with curtain.
The rear of the most radical model of the new X3 is no less emphatic and attractive than the rest with a rear window set back and flanked by a long roof spoiler which, together with the side air deflectors, the T-shaped optics and the black skirt from which four real exhaust pipes protrude, define a brilliant and unquestionably sporty whole.
Inner narrative
To enter the cabin of the captivating BMW X3 M50 xDrive is to enter a technologically advanced and conceptually balanced environment that exudes exclusivity and beauty throughout.
As soon as you get in, your attention is drawn to the enormous double curved screen integrated into the dashboard, although it is structured in two parts. A 12.9″ screen that houses all the information instruments necessary for driving and a 14.9″ screen for multimedia that also facilitates voice interaction, although this does not mean that BMW has rightly given up on the rotating iDrive. From this screen it is possible to control absolutely all the functions of the car, from the different driving modes to the temperature.
The standard equipment is truly amazing. In addition to the latest generation ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), which consists of a set of technological solutions designed to improve the safety of both passengers and road users, In the new superb M50, you can park from outside using your mobile phone, which can also be used as a key. The car will be able to memorise the last two hundred metres of your journey, which it could travel autonomously with orders from your mobile phone. You will be able to play games and view streaming content inside the vehicle when it is stationary.
The advanced BMW iDrive 9.0 operating system offers high-quality graphics, fluidity, tactile response and resolution. Includes MyModes, new interface, BMW ConnectedDrive services, OTA updates, 5G, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, communication with the MyBMW app, seven-speaker, 205 W HiFi sound system. Optionally, it can be equipped with the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, the Harman Kardon sound system, the Travel & Comfort System and the cabin camera with Drive Recorder.
But there is more. The three-zone climate control system can be controlled from the multimedia screen, it has an automatic tailgate, electric and heated seats, an advanced navigation system and a wireless charging panel for two mobile phones, cooled to prevent damage to the devices, and an excellent Head-Up Display, possibly the best currently on the market.
The ambient LED lighting recreates a very pleasant atmosphere. It runs along door panels, the dashboard and the centre console and, what’s more, it’s dynamic, so it will flash when you put the indicators in warning mode, for example.
True to the SUV concept, the passenger compartment is very spacious, allowing five adults and the corresponding luggage to travel in comfort. As for the finish, every last detail has been taken care of and high-quality materials have been used, including magnificent sports seats upholstered in Alcantara with all kinds of adjustment possibilities to guarantee safety and comfort.
With regard to cargo space, the generous electric tailgate gives access to a boot capacity of 570 litres, 20 litres more than in previous versions, expandable to 1,700 litres if we fold down the second row seat backs. The shapes are very regular, it has side pockets and the loading sill is 800 mm from the ground.
The boot is also well equipped and has tie-down rails, adjustable rings, a 12V socket, lighting and a vertical net. Under the floor we have a false bottom for storing tools and the puncture repair kit. A first aid kit is also provided as standard.
Driving to enjoy
At the wheel of the most radical and exclusive version of the versatile X3 M50 the sensations are superb and the sound vibrant. The powerful 3.0-litre biturbo in-line six-cylinder engine with eight-speed Steptronic gearbox and a small amount of assistance from a 48V hybrid system, which earns it the ECO label from the DGT, delivers the not inconsiderable figure of 398 hp and 580 Nm of maximum torque, enough to launch the two-tonne weight and reach 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, easily reaching a self-limited top speed of 250 km/h.
In running order it is smooth and easy to handle even at high speeds. Its power on wide bends is total, but it is not averse to slower bends either, where its variable sport steering, M Sport rear differential, M Sport limited-slip differential and M adaptive suspension help it turn with the agility of a dancer.
Beyond the figures and technical data, which are overwhelming, the work carried out by BMW engineers to achieve an SUV that, without losing its versatile essence, is capable of being squeezed into Sport mode without losing its safety features and being gentle when we ease off the accelerator, is very admirable.
Without a doubt, we are dealing with a masterpiece, the result of brilliant knowledge, which is not surprising coming from BMW.
