BMW confirms X3 M40i for Australia

BMW has confirmed its most powerful X3 SUV yet is coming to Australia later this year to take on its local rivals in terms of performance and pricing.

The highly-anticipated BMW X3 M40i will arrive priced from $99,900, placing it right in the mix with the boosted V6 powered Audi SQ5 and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43.

Powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six petrol engine, the X3 M40i produces 265kW and 500Nm, sending power to all four wheels via an eight-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.

BMW says it will beat the SQ5 and GLC 43 in the traffic light grand prix, cracking 100km/h in 4.8-seconds, thanks to launch control.

Performance wise, that represents pretty good value when you consider the SQ5 will sprint to 100km/h in 5.4-seconds, and cost $99,611, while the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 will break the tonne in 4.9-seconds, while setting you set you back $102,111.

The first M-badged X3 sits atop the new range of mid-size SUVs from BMW, which currently consists of the sDrive 20i ($66,900), xDrive20d ($69,900), xDrive30i ($76,900), and xDrive30d ($84,900).

Adaptive M Suspension, M Sport exhaust system and brakes, an M Sport differential and 21-inch alloy wheels are standard on the performance SUV, which boasts a 50:50 weight distribution.

Four different driving modes are offered (Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+), while the cabin features a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, and 10.25-inch touch screen infotainment unit featuring the iDrive 6 system.

Along with the performance comes BMW’s full Driving Assistance Plus active safety suite, which includes active cruise control, front cross-traffic warning, steering and lane control assistant, and lane keeping assistant with side collision warning.

“We welcome the first-ever M Performance version of the X3, the M40i, to what is a highly competitive market in Australia,” said BMW Group Australia CEO, Marc Werner.

“With that wonderful BMW turbocharged six and a distinctive M Performance look and feel, the M40i is a fantastic combination of versatility, luxury, dynamics and sensational performance” he added.