The X3 M blends the M3’s performance with the practicality of a BMW "Sports Activity Vehicle." Because of its subtle design tweaks compared to the standard X3, the X3 M is a real sleeper car straight out of the factory. However, keep your right foot busy, and you will understand that it is no less capable than any other full-fat M car while being a comfy five-seater. The top-spec X3 M Competition is a 503 horsepower beast, just like the M3 and the M4 Competition, but some aftermarket tuning can boost the figures to a whopping 660 horsepower. This video from AutoTopNL represents a tuned X3 M Competition by Mosselman, which can scorch past the 180 mph mark on the German Autobahn.
The Mosselman-Tuned X3 M Competition Is More Powerful Than the M5 CS
M cars have evolved over the years to the point where they are quicker than supercars when they need to be. The pre-facelifted X3 M looked innocuous for its beastly performance, and this showcases even more so in the video. The X3 M Competition from the video is finished in Black Sapphire Metallic and was heavily modified. The upgrades include an exhaust system from Fi Exhausts, upgraded turbochargers from Mosselman, and a 200-cell catalytic converter. These components result in a massive boost in power figures to a whopping 660 horses and 642 pound-feet of torque.
The aftermarket exhaust system sounds fantastic and perfectly balances being loud and seemingly quiet when the valves are closed. In addition, the owner wanted to get rid of the factory "pops and bangs" software, which is quite a wise decision for a family man. BMW is still sticking around with the ZF-sourced torque converter automatic gearbox, which, if needed, can perform similarly to a dual-clutch unit. However, the modification also included a remapped Transmission Control Unit using xHP Flashtool, which even helps with gearshifts much faster.
The video demonstrates how symphonic this modified X3 M Competition sounds right off the bat. Also, the remapped gearbox is now more responsive with an excellent throttle connection. AutoTopNL claims that this modified X3 M Competition can do 0-62 mph in 3.4 seconds, making it perform similarly to the Audi RS6 Avant and seven-tenths of a second faster than its stock iteration. AutoTopNL POV reviews are incomplete without a high-speed Autobahn run, and this beast of an X3 M Competition touches 181 mph without breaking a sweat. The engine seemed capable of speeds close to 200 mph, but the stock brake rotors did not inspire confidence, especially on the traffic-heavy Autobahn.
The X3 M Competition Is An M3, But More Road Focused
BMW’s most popular utility vehicle received a Life Cycle Impulse, BMW speak for faclift, in 2022 with aesthetic improvements and some added features. While the new standard X3 looks modern and the newer design touches, the older X3 M was more charming and had an overall sharper appearance. What did not change at all is the S58 engine under the hood of the X3 M. It is the most-powerful straight-six engine in the business, and in the Competition variant, it puts out a staggering 503 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of twist. Fortunately, the X3 M Competition is not just another SUV with big numbers that fails to perform as it should. If you don’t believe us, take it out for a drive and attack some twisties, and you will know. The M-powered X3 has stiffened dampers for enhanced cornering stability and does not feel like a 4,500 pounds vehicle. The X3 M Competition is priced at nearly $90,000, but it is one of the best sleeper cars you can buy now.