2023 BMW X3 M40i Review: Xceeds Xpectations

There are a handful of cars in the premium SUV market that cater to enthusiasts who crave a sportier driving experience without sacrificing the practicality of an SUV. One such example is the BMW X3 M40i, the more performance-oriented version of the docile X3 SUV but a toned-down version of the full-blown X3 M. Today is all about finding out whether this SUV has the right amount of balance to handle your daily commuter reality and high-performance fantasy.

Engine & Transmission

For the SUV derivative of the M340i, BMW has employed the same but a detuned 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine that makes 355 bhp and 500 Nm of peak torque. That’s 14 bhp less, with no change in torque. Even though the transmission is the same, the ZF-tuned 8-speed automatic gearbox is coupled to BMW’s xDrive or all-wheel-drive system.

What does all this mean? The power delivery is linear, effortless, and remarkably smooth, but what amazes me is how BMW makes its engine so punchy without making a fuss about it. They've tuned it well so that even someone with less experience driving a fast car feels right at home. Crank it up beyond 3000 rpm all the way up to 5500 rpm, and the X3 M40i turns into a monster, especially with Sport mode on.

The twin exhaust pods have a roarty note to them that sounds so good in Sport mode or even when you start the car. Being an SUV, there's always enough power, and the claimed time of 4.9 seconds to go from a standstill to 100 kmph is proof enough.

Ride & Handling

It’s not docile anymore; believe us, it's quick. Paddle shifters and the 20-inch mixed tyres work well when put under duress. Add to it the combination of the adaptive M suspension and the variable torque split at the rear with automatic differential locks. The X3 no longer remains a family SUV. Honestly, it blew me away. Driving it for a few days before shooting this video made me extremely comfortable, and now this power and torque feel normal. It's not as fast as other quick-paced sedans but is better than the other SUVs on sale.

It handles well, goes through corners on a straight line, and can do it all day long. The fact that there’s ample torque at your disposal makes the drive even more engaging. But there’s one caveat: my only problem is with the mild-hybrid system. It can't be switched off independently unless you put the car in Sport mode. It does take the fun away momentarily, but it returns a decent 10.49 kmpl. Switch to Eco or even Comfort modes, and the electronics adapt quickly enough, altering your outputs efficiently.

Exterior

Speaking of altering things, BMW has done a good job with the exterior changes. The M Performance parts mixed with the blacked-out elements to the front, side, and rear make everything look drop-dead gorgeous. The red brake callipers and the smoked-out effect to the tail lamps add a nice contrast.

Tech & Interior

Inside as well, the cabin maintains BMW's reputation for quality. The colour options vary, but we would’ve loved more options to personalise it. The ambient lights bring out the best of what BMW has to offer. But Mercedes does a better job in this department. Tech-wise, the X3 M40i gets the older version of BMW's iDrive 7 infotainment system, which is a bummer. There’s not much for the rear passengers, though, except ample leg, head, and shoulder room. Of course, they can control the temperature, but that’s about it.

Verdict

So, here’s my two cents. The BMW X3 was already a great package. It's about the right size for Indian roads, spacious, and has a good seating position for an SUV, but more importantly, it has all the right ingredients required to become a hit in our market. With the X3 M40i, BMW had its work cut out.

Throw in parts from M Performance, and you've got a great driver's car. At over Rs. 1 crore on the road, the BMW X3 M40i is a steep purchase. However, it is the only petrol option in the range, as the X3 is a diesel-only offering, and that’s about Rs. 77 lakh on the road.

But here’s why the X3 M40i makes for a compelling choice: its closest rival in terms of power output is the Porsche Macan S, priced at over Rs. 1.50 crore, that’s a massive Rs. 50 lakh difference. Clearly, the X3 M40i makes for a smarter choice. That’s only if you want to pep up your daily commuter with a mix of practicality and performance while ignoring the frequent trips to the fuel station.

Photography By: Apoorv Choudhary