2021 BMW X3 M

History/Overview

Introduced last year, the BMW X3 M is the first-ever performance-focused version of the brand’s compact crossover SUV model. It moves into 2021 with no significant changes.

Available Trims

BMW offers the X3 M in standard and Competition trim levels. Both use a 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder engine, but the Competition’s version is tuned for an extra 30 hp. In both variants, power goes through an eight-speed transmission to BMW’s xDrive all-wheel system.

Standard Features

The X3 M’s standard performance and exterior features include dynamic dampers, 20-inch wheels, and adaptive LED headlights.

Among its included luxury items are leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, hands-free power tailgate, an integrated garage door remote, passive keyless entry, panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming mirrors, heated/power-adjustable sport front seats with lumbar and driver memory, artificial leather dash trim, ambient lighting, and automatic climate control.

Tech features include navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch digital gauge display and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and a WiFi hotspot.

The X3 M’s safety kit comprises tire pressure monitoring, automatic high beams, BMW’s driving assistant, rear cross traffic alert, city-speed collision detection with automatic braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear collision prevention, and speed limit info.

Key Options

Options include an advanced driver assistance pack that brings radar cruise control and all-speed forward collision avoidance.

The premium package adds a Harman/Kardon stereo, manual rear side sun shades, a display key, head-up driver display, parking assistant with surround view, heated rear seats, and wireless smartphone charging.

Finally, there’s an M enhanced group with extended Merino leather in a selection of colours, plus a sport exhaust, sport seats, and 21-inch wheels.

Fuel Economy

As of this writing, BMW hadn’t published fuel consumption estimates for the 2021 X3 M, but those figures should match – or be similar to – the 2020 model’s ratings of 16.6/12.1 L/100 km (city/highway).

Competition

Germany has a proud tradition of all-out performance cars designed for that country’s excellent freeway system. Therefore, the X3 M competes against similarly quick SUVs like the Mercedes-AMG GLC and Audi’s SQ5. There’s also the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, and the Volvo XC60 T8 with its potent plug-in hybrid drivetrain.