BMW M GmbH expanded its high-performance model line-up to include models in the mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) segments for the first time. The BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M set the benchmark for dynamic excellence, agility and precision in their respective classes.
Also new is the launch alongside the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M of their Competition siblings. The BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition will capture customers’ imagination with their extra power and exclusive appointments.
New six-cylinder in-line engine, M Steptronic transmission, M xDrive
The addition to the BMW M GmbH line-up of its first high-performance models in the mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) segments also heralds the arrival of a newly developed sixcylinder in-line engine in two variants. The engine stands out with its familiar M high-revving character, the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology update, plus track-tested cooling and oil supply systems. It develops 353 kW/480 hp in the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M, and an even mightier 375 kW/510 hp in the BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition.
The standout performance characteristics of the 3.0-litre units are encapsulated by the linear power development that is such an M speciality, plus a hunger for revs quelled only by the engine’s limiter. And all to the tune of an arresting soundtrack. Like the maximum output figure, peak torque of 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) also represents a new high point for a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine from BMW. The ongoing development of M TwinPower Turbo technology, coupled with the inclusion of two gasoline particulate filters and four catalytic converters, also ensures the high-performance engines can claim remarkable efficiency and exceptionally low emissions.
Higher revving, more powerful and more efficient thanks to weight minimisation and the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology
The new six-cylinder in-line engine has a forged crankshaft, whose exceptional torsional resistance allows it to handle extremely high torque levels. Plus, its low weight and reduced rotating mass feed the engine’s highrevving instincts. The closed-deck design of the six-cylinder engine’s crankcase ensures it is incredibly rigid, paving the way for higher combustion pressure and optimised power output. The wire-arc sprayed iron coating for the cylinder walls serves to reduce weight and frictional losses.
In addition, the cylinder head has a core manufactured using 3D printing. This additive manufacturing process enables geometric forms to be created that are beyond the capability of conventional metal casting techniques. 3D printing technology has cut the weight of the new engine’s cylinder head core and allowed its coolant ducts to be routed in a way that optimises temperature management.
This latest incarnation of M TwinPower Turbo technology features two monoscroll turbochargers, which supply compressed air to cylinders 1 – 3 and 4 – 6 respectively. The engine’s power output is further enhanced through the use of upgraded compressors and an indirect intercooler supplied by a lowtemperature circuit. A flow-optimised air intake system reduces pressure losses, while an electronically controlled wastegate (which can be closed quickly) enhances responsiveness. The wide-opening wastegate also ens the effectiveness of the catalytic converters positioned close to the engine.
The likewise further developed High Precision Injection technology raises maximum injection pressure from 200 bar to 350 bar, enabling extremely efficient mixture preparation. The fine atomisation of the fuel in the combustion chambers minimises emissions, especially under full acceleration loads and at high speeds. The package of technology is rounded off by VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing.
The six-cylinder in-line engine serves up its peak torque between 2,600 and 5,600 rpm in the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M, and between 2,600 and 5,950 rpm in the BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition. It generates maximum output at 6,250 rpm and sustains its potent power delivery until the 7,200 rpm “red line”. The BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.2 seconds, while the Competition models hit the 100 km/h (62 mph) mark in a mere 4.1 seconds. The top speed of all models is an electronically governed 250 km/h (155 mph). But if the optional M Driver’s Package is specified, this limit rises to 280 km/h (174 mph) – or 285 km/h (177 mph) for the Competition models.
Cooling systems and oil supply developed with knowledge from motor sport
The new six-cylinder in-line engine’s track-tested cooling system has been designed to work with the engine’s extraordinary performance and comprises one central radiator and two positioned either side of it. It also includes an additional engine oil cooler and a separate transmission oil cooler. This sophisticated system ensures that optimum operating temperatures are maintained for all powertrain components at all times, both in everyday use on short urban journeys and during track use.
The motor sport expertise amassed by BMW M GmbH has also made its presence felt in the conception of the oil supply system, which is designed to meet the challenges of dynamic track driving. The engine’s weight-minimised oil sump has two separate chambers and an integrated suction channel. An additional suction stage allows the map-controlled oil pump to draw lubricant from the smaller chamber, which steps in when extra capacity is needed. This ensures a reliable supply of oil at all times, even under extreme lateral and longitudinal acceleration.
Dual-branch exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps, two gasoline particulate filters and four tailpipes
An exhaust system perfectly tailored to the new six-cylinder in-line engine delivers reduced backpressure, a stirring soundtrack and minimised emissions. The dual-branch pipework leads into a bespoke silencer and releases the exhaust gas – in customary M fashion – through two pairs of tailpipes. Each tailpipe has a diameter of 100 millimetres; one pair is positioned on the right-hand of the rear apron and the other on the left. Both branches of the exhaust are fitted with a gasoline particulate filter to reduce particulate emissions.
Electrically controlled flaps help to produce the emotionally rich engine note for which BMW M cars are renowned and which provides an acoustic showcase for the engine’s brawn and linear power delivery. The nature of the soundtrack takes its cues from the engine mode engaged; in addition to the standard setting, SPORT and SPORT+ modes can be selected at the touch of a button. Pressing another button on the centre console, meanwhile, gives the engine a particularly hushed tone. Standard specification for the Competition models includes the M Sport exhaust system, which lends the engine a pleasingly sonorous timbre, especially when it is being pushed hard and at high revs. Its continuously variable exhaust flaps create a particularly broad vocal range. The M Sport exhaust system can also be specified as an option for the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M.
Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and three shift modes
The new high-performance engine links up with the latest upgrade of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. As well as fully automated gear changes, it also enables manual shifts with sequential gear selection. Fitted as standard along with the newly designed selector lever are gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. Manual mode allows the driver to shift down several times to the lowest gear possible, so as to utilise the engine braking effect. M Steptronic does not force upshifts under acceleration – even when the engine’s revs hit the limiter. And it is designed to deliver instantaneous response and lightning-fast gear changes. The torque converter lock-up clutch is fully engaged from the moment the car pulls away.
The driver can use the selector lever’s Drivelogic switch to adjust the transmission’s shift characteristics in both automatic and manual modes. Drivelogic mode 1 aids efficient driving with smooth gear changes, switching to mode 2 increases the sporting factor with shorter shift times. And the third mode makes gear changes even sharper. Here, the transmission holds the engine in its upper rev echelons, helping the driver to push the dynamic envelope and maximise the powertrain’s performance on the track.
M xDrive all-wheel drive: maximum traction, rear-wheel-biased set-up
The new M xDrive all-wheel-drive system also plays its part in giving the BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models their sublime performance attributes. Handed its debut in the new BMW M5, the system blends the traction-related benefits of sending power to all four wheels with the proven dynamic qualities of classical rear-wheel drive. The electronically controlled M xDrive, which works in tandem with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, only shifts drive to the front axle when the rear wheels reach the limits of their power-transferring ability. This setting maximises the agility of the high-performance SAV and SAC as its top priority.
As well as modifying the responses of the DSC system, drivers can also adjust the distribution of power between the front and rear wheels at the touch of a button. M Dynamic Mode – which can be activated as an alternative to the standard DSC setting – gives the driver access to the M xDrive 4WD Sport option. This shifts even more power to the rear wheels, enabling controlled drifts and particularly playful handling. DSC Off mode (with DSC deactivated), meanwhile, has been optimised for ultra-dynamic driving situations and can be combined with the standard all-wheel-drive setting 4WD or with 4WD Sport mode. Mode selection here is via the iDrive menu.
The centrally controlled interaction between M xDrive and the Active M Differential is largely responsible for channelling the engine’s immense output through the car’s wheels without any loss of power en route. Torque is distributed between the front and rear wheels with creamy smoothness and fully variably by means of the transfer case’s electronically controlled multiplate clutch, before the Active M Differential splits it again between the two rear wheels, as the situation demands. This ensures enhanced traction, agility and directional stability, especially when the car is being driven in a very sporty manner or on roads with differing levels of grip – i.e. exactly when it is needed. All of which means stabilising interventions by the DSC system are only necessary in extreme situations.
Segment-leading driving dynamics
The combination of agility, dynamism and precision for which BMW M cars are renowned is underpinned by sophisticated, model-specific chassis technology tuned astutely to match the engine’s high power and the capabilities of the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This endows both the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M and their Competition siblings with a degree of dynamic prowess that eclipses their rivals. Their outstanding levels of performance in terms of straight-line and lateral acceleration, handling and stopping power are complemented by excellent directional stability, neutral steering behaviour and comfort-enhancing characteristics that lend themselves to both everyday driving and long journeys. The finely orchestrated blend of the engine’s power, the means by which that power is transferred to the road, the chassis’ set-up and the body’s attributes has been honed in exhaustive testing at venues including the BMW Group’s test track in Miramas, southern France and the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit.
Far-reaching measures for strengthening the body and chassis mountings have a particularly beneficial effect on steering precision and response. The BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models all come with an M-specific bracing package at the front end, whose key element is a high-precision strut brace in the engine compartment that links the spring strut towers. In August 2019, an exceptionally light, extremely strong high-precision strut brace made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is set to join the options list as an alternative to the standard item. In addition, an A-strut has been incorporated into the front section near the bulkhead, with two further struts increasing stiffness between the spring strut towers and the nose of the car. The body’s torsional stiffness is further enhanced by a large strut in the rear section and model-specific rear axle thrust arms.
SAVs and SACs with unmistakable M driving qualities
An array of M-specific details and the precision tuning of the chassis construction have helped to imbue the Sports Activity Vehicle and Sports Activity Coupe with a performance-focused character. Both the double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle feature bespoke kinematic and elastokinematic properties that help to deliver precise wheel location and directional stability. A wide spectrum of adjustability between dynamism and ride comfort and the linear build-up of lateral forces are two of the foremost characteristics in a dynamic repertoire lifted straight from the M rulebook.
The latter quality results in precisely controllable handling throughout the full range of lateral acceleration when cornering at speed. To give the BMW X3 M, the BMW X4 M and Competition versions their M-specific kinematics, the front axle is fitted with custom-made swivel bearings, torque arms and wishbones. Specially designed elastomer bearings are used to channel the forces conveyed by the control arms into the axle subframe and the vehicle body, while the increased front wheel camber optimises handling stability and lateral control through corners.
The rear axle likewise boasts model-specific components and customised elastokinematics that add to the classical M driving experience. The exceptionally stiff design of the camber arm, combined with the M-specific rubber mounts for all control arms and the rear axle subframe, heralds even greater precision and agility. Finally, the BMW X3 M, the BMW X4 M and the Competition versions all come with model-specific anti-roll bars, whose increased rigidity translates into more direct response, resulting in a noticeable reduction in body roll and more precise handling.
M-specific suspension with electronically controlled dampers
The BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models are equipped as standard with M-specific adaptive suspension, whose electronically controlled dampers ensure both excellent everyday comfort and extremely direct contact with the road – with little wheel and body movement. The damping forces for each individual wheel are continuously adjusted – with the help of internal electromagnetic valves – to perfectly suit the driving situation at hand.
The basic damper set-up can be varied at the touch of a button with a choice of three modes, each with their own settings. COMFORT mode smooths out bumps in the road at the same time as providing high levels of handling stability, while damping becomes significantly firmer in SPORT mode. Activating SPORT+ mode reveals an even tauter set-up. SPORT+ is designed to put maximum longitudinal and lateral acceleration at the driver’s disposal during hard driving on perfectly even surfaces, such as a race track.
Precision, feel and effortlessness: M Servotronic steering with a variable ratio
The electromechanical M Servotronic steering on the BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models has a specially designed motor unit positioned parallel to the axle and is another ingredient in the hallmark M driving experience. The M Servotronic system combines speed-sensitive power assistance and a variable ratio, enabling it to deliver exactly the right amount of steering torque for every situation. The result is wonderfully accurate turn-in, sensitive communication of the steering wheel’s movements when powering through bends, and effortless manoeuvring and parking at low speeds.
Its variable ratio, which adjusts to changes in the steering angle, is as adept at keeping the car effortlessly in a straight line as at providing instantaneous turn-in and directional accuracy through bends. As a result, the car feels particularly obliging on twisty roads. Steering response can also be varied by pushing a button to select one of three settings. The steering is at its lightest in COMFORT mode, yet still provides the driver with plenty of feedback. It is even more communicative in SPORT mode, while also requiring notably more force to turn the wheel. Configured for an extremely sporty steering feel, SPORT+ mode further increases the steering effort needed and maximises feedback from the road.
DSC with M Dynamic Mode
The DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system takes just a fraction of a second to respond to changing situations and varying road surface conditions. As well as making corrective brake inputs at individual wheels and adjusting drive torque to stabilise the car, its range of functions includes the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assist, the Brake Drying function and the Start-Off Assistant. When set to M Dynamic Mode at a touch of the relevant button, the system allows extra wheel slip, thereby producing the steering behaviour for which M models are renowned and helping the driver to execute controlled drifts, for example, during track sessions. DSC Off mode can also be engaged at the push of a button. The M xDrive system also remains active when DSC is switched off to ensure the optimum distribution of drive torque between the front and rear wheels is maintained.
M compound brakes and M light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres
The performance capabilities of the BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and their Competition siblings are rounded off by the highly effective M compound brakes fitted as standard. Featuring four-piston fixed callipers at the front wheels and single-piston floating callipers at the rear, they provide superb stopping power. The callipers are painted Blue and bear the M logo. The drilled, inner-vented brake discs measure 395 millimetres in diameter at the front and 370 millimetres at the rear. The compound design (derived from racing cars) combines the cast-iron brake discs with aluminium chambers, giving the brakes excellent feel, a low weight and increased thermal stability.
The overall package, orchestrated to deliver supreme performance, also comprises model-specific M light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design and mixedsize high-performance tyres (non-runflat) to match. These provide remarkably effective transmission of lateral control forces during dynamic cornering, aided further by the rear-biased configuration of the M xDrive system. Standard specification for the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M includes 20-inch wheels in a polished Orbit Grey finish with 255/45 ZR20 tyres at the front and 265/45 ZR20 tyres at the rear. The BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition models, meanwhile, ride as standard on 21-inch wheels with a polished Jet Black finish. Tyres are 255/40 ZR21 items at the front and 265/40 ZR21 at the rear.
Characteristic M styling for the exterior and interior
The model-specific design features of the BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models are geared squarely to the functional requirements of a high-performance car. The exterior’s highly distinctive appearance makes no secret of the performance-focused character coursing through the SAV and SAC models from BMW M GmbH. The large intakes at the front end ensure an effective supply of cooling air for the engine, transmission and brakes. Meanwhile, the signature M design elements at the front, sides and rear serve to optimise aerodynamics and have been carefully matched to the power unit’s performance characteristics and the chassis’ tuning. The hugely potent engine of the BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models, their chassis – underpinned by expertise in the development of racing cars – and perfectly balanced aerodynamics combine to create the type of thrilling all-round performance package for which BMW M cars are renowned.
An ergonomically efficient cockpit design, sports seats and a wealth of modelspecific design details give the cabin of the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M an extremely sporty yet luxurious feel. The raised seating position helps to provide a superb view of the road ahead. And the M-style design of the displays and controls makes it easier for keen, sporty drivers to stay focused on the job in hand.
Characteristic BMW X model proportions, trademark M design features
The exterior design of the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M takes the muscular proportions shared by all BMW X models, adds a long wheelbase, short overhangs, slightly hexagonal wheel arches, crisp lines and clean-cut surface contouring, and completes the picture with a sprinkling of tell-tale M features for that extra dose of sporting supremacy. Alongside the large air intakes and aerodynamically optimised front apron, both models also sport a BMW kidney grille with black double bars – another chip off the M block. On the Competition models, the BMW kidney grille’s surround also has a High-gloss Black finish.
The signature M gills are integrated into the Air Breathers on the front flanks. The exterior mirrors’ special M design brings about a further reduction in aerodynamic drag. And model-specific diffuser-look styling flanked by a pair of exhaust tailpipes on either side clearly distinguishes the individually designed rear apron of both models.
Sited atop the BMW X3 M and BMW X3 M Competition is an M-specific roof spoiler, whose design extends the flank lines into the powerfully contoured tail. The BMW X4 M and BMW X4 M Competition set the seal on their sporty looks with a tailgate spoiler. The exterior colour scheme for the four highperformance models set them apart even more clearly from the standard versions of the BMW X3 and BMW X4. The front and rear aprons, the wheel arch surrounds and the edges of the side skirts are painted entirely in body colour, replacing the usual black bordering.
There is a choice of seven colours for the exterior paintwork of the BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models, including the new shade Toronto Red metallic and – also exclusive to M cars – Donington Grey metallic. The BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition models come with a number of distinctive design features to bring their exclusive character to the fore, including a High-gloss Black finish for the BMW kidney grille surround, exterior mirror caps and M gills (and the rear spoiler of the Sports Activity Coupe). Their standard equipment also includes 21-inch M light-alloy wheels in polished Black and an M Sport exhaust system with tailpipes in Black Chrome, along with specially designed door sill plates and model badging. The optional M Carbon exterior package (expected to be available from August 2019), which features design elements in carbon fibrereinforced plastic (CFRP) for the front air intakes, the air blades in the front apron, the rear diffuser and the exterior mirror caps, adds further individual flourishes. On the BMW X4 M and BMW X4 M Competition, these elements are joined by a CFRP rear spoiler.
M-style cockpit design, versatile interior
Standard equipment for the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M includes sports seats, Vernasca leather upholstery in a choice of Black or Oyster with an embossed M logo at the top of the backrests, and interior trim strips in Aluminium carbon structure. The BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition, on the other hand, come as standard with M Sport seats in extended Merino leather upholstery that can be specified in either Black or the bi-colour variants Sakhir Orange/Black and Adelaide Grey/Sakhir Orange. These are optionally available for the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M, too. All models are fitted with knee pads on the sides of the centre console as standard. Highlights on the list of optional extras include BMW Individual extended Merino leather upholstery in Ivory White and Tartufo (only in conjunction with the M Sport seats) and Carbon Fibre interior trim strips. Extended Merino leather upholstery in the new Midrand Beige/Black colour scheme with Alcantara applications is available exclusively for the BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition models.
The unmistakable M-style cockpit design additionally comprises an M-specific instrument cluster, an M leather steering wheel and a restyled M selector lever. The BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition bring further exclusive touches to the interior with their bucket-style M Sport seats and the model nameplate on the centre console.
Although the interior appears firmly focused on a sporty driving experience, it still retains the versatility for which BMW X models are known. Both models come as standard with a 40 : 20 : 40 split-folding rear backrest, enabling luggage capacity to be increased to a maximum of 1,600 litres in the BMW X3 M and 1,430 litres in the BMW X4 M.
Familiar M control and operation, bespoke comfort, digital connectivity
Like the interior design of the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M, their equipment and appointments create an ideal environment in which to experience outstanding performance with satisfying intensity. The design of the instrument cluster and centre console controls for the powertrain and suspension functions help to ensure precisely controllable handling in even highly dynamic driving situations. The sporty and luxurious standard specification also includes LED headlights, electrically adjustable seats, the hi-fi speaker system and the ConnectedDrive navigation package with Navigation system Professional. The standalone identity of the BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition models is reflected in their distinctive design features.
Further scope for enhancing individualisation and comfort is provided by the options list for the BMW X3 and BMW X4. And there is a similarly comprehensive spread of driver assistance systems here for customers to choose from, not to mention BMW Connected and BMW ConnectedDrive services.
Instrument cluster and BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific features
With their signature red needles and white illumination, the classic circular instruments in the black panel instrument cluster exude a characteristic BMW M model allure. M-specific display information also contributes to the cockpit’s racing flavour. The car’s speed is shown in digital form in the centre of the speedometer display, while the rev counter features a pre-warning field which varies according to the engine warm-up status, a colour Optimum Shift Indicator and the model designation. The shift program and gear selected are displayed in the centre of the instrument cluster. The digital readouts in the 5.7-inch colour display also feature the powertrain and chassis modes engaged, the set-up selected via one of the M Drive buttons, and the status of the driver assistance systems.
M-specific display content can also be shown on the BMW Head-Up Display which is available as an option for the BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models. This unit projects driving information onto the windscreen and into the driver’s immediate field of vision. Without having to look away from the road, the driver can view information such as the car’s speed on the digital indicator, the gear selected, alerts from the traffic sign recognition system, navigation instructions and a multi-colour rev band indicator with shift lights.
Separate control panel on the centre console and two M Drive buttons on the steering wheel allow drivers to choose their desired set-up
The M-specific approach to the control and operation of the car’s powertrain and chassis systems offers the driver a broad range of possibilities when it comes to configuring the vehicle settings precisely to suit their personal preferences and the driving situation at hand. A control panel specific to the M models is situated on the centre console next to the selector lever and iDrive Controller. These buttons allow the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) mode, the engine’s performance characteristics, the settings for the electronically controlled dampers and the M Servotronic steering set-up to be selected independently. Another button allows the driver to adjust the engine soundtrack. The shift program for the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic is engaged by means of a button on the selector lever. Drivers can use the iDrive menu to select an M xDrive mode with the DSC system deactivated. And the iDrive menu also allows them to vary the content in the BMW Head-Up Display.
Driver can use this array of settings to configure two detailed overall set-ups for their car and store them permanently. This means they always have their ideal set-ups – e.g. for particularly sporty driving and relaxed cruising – on hand. The desired set-up can be activated instantly and at any time by pressing one of the two red M Drive buttons on the steering wheel. Starting the engine initiates a default vehicle configuration providing a harmonious balance of sportiness, comfort and efficiency.
M Sport seats: the perfect place to enjoy richly engaging driving experiences
Standard specification for the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M comprises heated sports seats in Vernasca leather, whose upper sections are embossed with the M logo and which feature electric adjustment for the fore/aft position, and tilt. The angle of the backrest can also be adjusted electrically, its width pneumatically, and the driver’s sports seat comes with a memory function. Lumbar support for the driver’s seat and front passenger seat can be added as an option.
M Sport seats in extended Merino leather upholstery are available as an option. Fitted as standard in the BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition, their seat cushion and backrest side bolsters have an M-specific design. This gives them a distinctive bucket-seat character, which optimises lateral support during dynamic cornering. The extended range of adjustment functions provides a perfect seating position and comfort tailored to the individual. Manual adjustment for the seat cushion length and pneumatic lumbar support adjustment are also available alongside the sports seats’ functions. The semi-integrated head restraints are electrically adjustable for and make a unique visual statement with their illuminated M logo. Active seat ventilation can also be specified as an option for the M Sport seats.
A peerlessly sporting aura, comfort tailored to the individual
The sporty and luxurious interior ambience of the BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models can be enhanced with a wide range of optional extras to provide even greater comfort and individuality. A heated steering wheel and a ski and snowboard bag are available alongside the standard three-zone automatic climate control.
The functionality of the Comfort Access option includes hands-free tailgate opening and closing. Automatic tailgate operation at the touch of a button is standard for the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M.
Among other options offering bespoke levels of comfort are a model-specific panoramic glass roof, acoustic and sun protection glass, and heated rear seats. For an even greater sense of well-being on board, customers can specify the optional Ambient Air package with fragrancing and air ionisation.
The BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M come as standard with LED headlights. Adaptive LED Headlights with variable light distribution, cornering lights and BMW Selective Beam for non-dazzling high beam are available as an option. Atmospheric interior illumination is provided by the standard ambient lighting, which offers a choice of six colours and can be activated via the iDrive menu.
Far-reaching line-up of driver assistance systems
The wide range of driver assistance systems available for the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M offers clear comfort and safety benefits in monotonous or confusing driving situations. Standard equipment comprises Cruise Control with braking function along with Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function, while Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and distance information and the Driving Assistant (including Speed Limit Info with No Passing Info display, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Collision Prevention, Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning) can be specified as options.
Driving Assistant Plus extends the helping hand even further. Additional elements of this package include the Steering and lane control assistant, the Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection, the evasion aid and the Crossroads warning, Wrong-way warning and Front Cross Traffic Alert.
Ease of parking and manoeuvring is the speciality of the standard-fit Park Distance Control (PDC) with front and rear sensors. The optional Parking Assistant complements these features with a rear-view camera and also takes care of steering, acceleration and braking when manoeuvring into parking spaces parallel or perpendicular to the road. An even broader perspective is provided by the optional Parking Assist Plus with Top View, Panorama View and 3D Top View functions, while the Remote 3D View function transmits a three-dimensional live image of the vehicle to the driver’s smartphone.
Intuitive operation, intelligent connectivity and digital services
Another element of standard specification for the BMW X3 M, BMW X4 M and Competition models is the ConnectedDrive navigation package with Navigation system Professional. Intuitive operation of the navigation, infotainment, communication and vehicle functions is made possible by the iDrive Touch Controller on the centre console, the 10.25-inch Control Display touchscreen, the multifunction steering wheel’s buttons, the voice control feature and the optional BMW gesture control. Standard equipment also includes telephony with wireless charging, WiFi hotspot preparation, an alarm system, Real Time Traffic Information with On-Street Parking Information, and the Concierge Service. Customers can also select Apple CarPlay preparation and the Online Entertainment digital service from the options list. The Harman Kardon surround sound system can be specified as an option over the standard hi-fi speaker system.
Seamless connectivity between the vehicle and digital devices is overseen by the BMW Connected personal mobility assistant. Using the Open Mobility Cloud, it interfaces devices such as smartphones, smartwatches and voice assistants with the vehicle to ensure convenient and personalised access to digital services. Functions supported by BMW Connected include route planning on digital devices. This process takes into account calendar entries, real-time traffic information and, where necessary, a refuelling stop and is shown in the vehicle’s navigation system when the driver sets off. The driver can also use the personal mobility assistant to call up vehicle data – such as the fuel level and the car’s operating range – on digital devices, lock the vehicle via Remote Services and continue route guidance from parking location to final destination on their smartphone.
