2020 BMW X3 M And X4 M Go Official, Rocket From 0-60 MPH In 4.1 Sec

BMW has pulled the wraps off the 2020 X3 M and X4 M.

Set to go into production this April, the high-performance models are powered by a new twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that produces 473 hp (352 kW / 479 PS) and 442 lb-ft (598 Nm) of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and a rear-biased all-wheel drive system. This setup enables the X3 and X4 M to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.1 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of up to 174 mph (280 km/h).

Drivers looking for something more powerful can order the X3 and X4 M Competition. They have an upgraded engine that develops 503 hp (375 kW / 510 PS), but the torque remains unchanged at 442 lb-ft (598 Nm). Unsurprisingly, the models are slightly quicker as the dash from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) drops to four seconds, while the top speed climbs to 177 mph (284 km/h) with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Since all four models are full-bore M products, they come with an assortment of other performance upgrades. Starting with the suspension, engineers installed custom swivel bearings, torque arms and wishbones up front. Similar upgrades were made to the rear suspension as the crossovers have custom bushings, beefier anti-roll bars and an assortment of “model-specific components.”

Engineers also focused on strengthening the chassis. As part of this effort, the front end has M-specific bracing including a strut tower brace and a new A-strut by the firewall. The team also installed a large rear brace and model-specific rear axle control arms to further increase torsional stiffness.

The performance upgrades extend even further as all models have an Active M Differential, an Adaptive M Suspension and an M Servotronic steering system with a variable ratio. BMW also installed a high-performance braking system which features drilled and ventilated discs that measure 15.6-inches (395 mm) up front and 14.6-inches (370 mm) out back.

In order to distance the crossovers from the X3 and X4 M40i, the models have a black grille and a more aggressive front fascia with larger air intakes. Buyers will also find aerodynamic mirror caps, a unique rear diffuser and a four-tailpipe exhaust system. Other updates include M-specific spoilers, additional body color components and 20-inch wheels with a polished orbit grey finish.

The Competition variants are largely identical, but they have a few special touches of their own. Highlights include high-gloss black accents, 21-inch wheels and an M Sport exhaust system with black chrome tailpipes.

Later in the year, customers will be able to order an optional M Carbon exterior package which adds a number of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic components including a rear diffuser and mirror caps.

Inside, drivers will find Vernasca leather sport seats, aluminum carbon structure trim and a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel. Other niceties include an M-specific instrument cluster, a unique shifter and center console-mounted knee pads.

The X3 M and X4 M Competition are similar, but they have special badging and standard M Sport seats in extended Merino leather.

In the United States, the models will come nicely equipped with adaptive LED headlights, GPS navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. Buyers will also find an assortment of driver assistance systems including Active Guard, Active Protection, Active Driving Assistant and Frontal Collision Warning with City collision mitigation.

Customers will also be able to order a number of different options including carbon fiber trim, a head-up display and a wireless smartphone charger. There will also be a Driving Assistance Plus Package and an Executive Package which adds a heated steering wheel as well as heated front and rear seats.

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