BMW’s M division has a rich history of blending supercar performance with everyday usability. While the iconic M1 might be the first thing that comes to mind for some, the true essence of M started a bit later when BMW engineers decided to inject high-performance DNA into a sedan, giving birth to the E28 M5. Alongside this legend, a slightly less celebrated sibling emerged – the M535i, proving that M Performance models have been part of the BMW story from the very beginning.
Fast forward almost half a century, and the line between M Performance and full-fledged M cars can sometimes seem blurred. This brings us to a crucial question: What exactly differentiates an M Performance model from a true M car? To explore this, we’re putting two BMW X3 models head-to-head: the BMW X3 M40i and the formidable X3 M.
Previously, we’ve explored similar territory comparing an X3 xDrive30i against an X4 M40i. In that matchup, the X4 M40i emerged as the superior vehicle, offering tangible performance enhancements. If a potent inline-six engine is on your X3 wishlist, an M badge is almost a prerequisite.
However, the gap between the X3 M40i and the X3 M is notably tighter. To truly highlight these nuances, we’re focusing on the base X3 M model, explicitly excluding the Competition variant as seen in our previous review. The base X3 M boasts 473 horsepower compared to the M40i’s 382 horsepower, a difference of 91 horsepower. Price-wise, the base X3 M starts at $74,400, while a well-equipped X3 M40i comes in at $66,725, representing a $7,675 price difference.
A visual comparison of the BMW X3 M and X3 M40i showcasing their similar exterior designs, yet hinting at distinct performance capabilities under the hood.
Unlike some past M cars that were significantly differentiated from their standard counterparts, the X3 M and X3 M40i share a closer aesthetic kinship. Gone are the days of bespoke V10 engines setting M cars distinctly apart. Nevertheless, both models represent the pinnacle of BMW’s current engineering, with the X3 M retaining the track-ready pedigree synonymous with the M badge, ensuring it can withstand rigorous performance demands without succumbing to overheating.
But performance figures and track capabilities aren’t the sole focus here. The crucial question remains: Can the M Performance X3 M40i genuinely compete with the full-fledged BMW X3 M in everyday driving and overall ownership experience?
Second Place: The BMW X3 M
2022 BMW X3 M Quick Verdict
Reasons to Buy:
- The S58 Engine: A powerhouse of performance delivering true M power.
- Stealthy M Aesthetics: Subtle M design cues offer an understated yet sporty appearance.
- Pure Speed: Ideal for drivers who prioritize outright acceleration and performance.
Reasons to Reconsider:
- Harsh Ride Quality: Suspension is notably stiff, potentially compromising daily driving comfort.
- відчутний Weight: Feels heavy and less agile compared to its sibling.
- Interior Disappointment: Cabin lacks the premium feel expected at its price point, especially compared to the M40i.
Soul Score: 7
The X3 M delivers the raw, unadulterated M experience in an SUV form factor, appealing to those who demand ultimate performance.
Before any passionate emails flood in, let’s address some anticipated counterpoints:
- “Of course, you favor your own car (the M40i) in the comparison.”
- “In an M340i vs. M3 scenario, the M3 would undoubtedly be your pick.”
- “If this were the Competition model, the X3 M would have been the clear winner.”
These are all valid points. However, we are evaluating the base X3 M against the M40i in this specific context.
Performance Score: 9. M Power
The BMW X3 M displaying its potent performance capabilities, emphasizing its M-car fast nature and dynamic driving experience.
Engine and Transmission
If you envision the X3 M as simply a taller M3, a test drive will quickly dispel that notion. The inherent physics of a performance SUV, with a higher center of gravity and increased weight, presents unique handling challenges.
However, the M division’s expertise shines through in mitigating these drawbacks. The most immediate differentiator is the S58 engine. Think of it as a more aggressively tuned B58, amplified in every aspect. The S58 not only delivers more power but also boasts a more aggressive and sonorous engine note. Engaging the gear selector and applying full throttle unleashes a surge of acceleration that feels significantly quicker than the official 0-60 mph figures suggest.
While both models utilize a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the X3 M’s transmission is notably more robust, offering quicker gear changes and enhanced predictive intelligence. It intuitively selects the optimal gear with confidence and speed, a characteristic less pronounced in the M40i, which requires Sport mode engagement and more deliberate driver input to achieve similar responsiveness.
A view of the X3 M’s digital instrument cluster, highlighting the subtle differences compared to standard BMW gauges in the context of modern automotive design.
Suspension and Steering
To counteract the aerodynamic challenges of an SUV profile, BMW equipped the X3 M with substantial power. However, achieving M-level handling necessitated a significant stiffening of the suspension.
This results in a ride that can be described as uncompromising. Every road imperfection, from potholes to minor pebbles, is transmitted into the cabin with considerable force. The X3 M, being approximately 300 pounds heavier than the M40i, further contributes to this firm and sometimes jarring ride quality.
The X3 M’s interior featuring M-specific buttons, emphasizing driver-focused controls for personalized performance settings and driving modes.
Despite the firm ride, the X3 M’s handling prowess is undeniable. It feels significantly more planted and responsive than the M40i. Wider, more aggressive tires and a quicker steering rack contribute to enhanced cornering capabilities. While the ride height appears similar between the two models, those seeking an even lower stance might consider aftermarket lowering springs for the X3 M.
Both models share a similar steering feel, which, in typical modern BMW fashion, can be characterized as somewhat lacking in feedback. This raises the question of whether competitors like the Porsche Macan offer a more engaging steering experience.
Brakes
The X3 M boasts vented and cross-drilled brake discs, visually distinguishing them and suggesting enhanced heat dissipation capabilities. However, the underlying braking hardware is remarkably similar to the M40i. For true high-performance braking demanded by track use, carbon ceramic discs would be a necessary upgrade, as standard brakes can experience fade under extreme conditions.
Features and Comfort: 6. M-issing
The interior of the base BMW X3 M, highlighting a rather basic trim and feature set which may feel underwhelming compared to its price point.
Stepping back in time to an E60 M5 reveals a stark contrast in interior ambiance. The E60 M5 featured distinctive M-specific gauges reminiscent of fine chronographs, a rich leather aroma, and supportive, sculpted seats. While M cars aren’t crafted by Alpina, they should arguably offer a similarly elevated sense of interior specialness.
The base X3 M’s interior, however, leans towards the basic side. It features Vernasca Leather and seats that feel remarkably similar to those in the M40i. Upgrading to Sport Seats from the M3 requires opting for Merino Leather, adding approximately $2,000 to the price. Carbon fiber trim is available, but it’s also an option for the M40i.
Carbon fiber trim within the X3 M interior, a sporty accent that is also available on the M40i, blurring the lines of interior exclusivity.
The omission of Shadowline trim on the base X3 M is also noticeable, especially when parked alongside an X3 equipped with it. Even grille badges, once exclusive to M models, are now found on M Performance vehicles like the X3 M40i, further diminishing the visual exclusivity of the full M model. Shared steering wheels, the absence of a sunroof (a desirable feature for brightening the dark cabin), and the lack of Shadowline trim contribute to the M40i appearing just as sporty externally in base trim.
Grille badges on the X3 M, once a hallmark of M exclusivity, now also featured on M Performance models, reducing a unique visual identifier.
The Price of Performance
To truly unlock the full X3 M experience with comparable features to a well-equipped M40i, the price escalates significantly beyond $80,000, potentially reaching $90,000 when optioned with features standard on the M Performance model.
While the X3 M undeniably outperforms the M40i in speed and track capability, its value proposition in base form is questionable. Consider opting for the Competition model for a more complete M experience or, perhaps, lean towards the more well-rounded M40i.
First Place: The BMW X3 M40i
2022 BMW X3 M40i Quick Verdict
Reasons to Buy:
- The B58 Engine: A highly refined and potent engine, offering a special driving experience.
- Balanced Performance: Delivers 8/10ths of the X3 M’s performance without sacrificing daily comfort.
- Everyday Usability: A comfortable and practical daily driver that doesn’t compromise on fun.
Reasons to Reconsider:
- Seat Support: Seats could offer more lateral support for spirited driving.
- M Badging Overload: Abundance of M badges may appear somewhat excessive.
Soul Score: 8
The X3 M40i strikes an exceptional balance, offering near-M performance with greater comfort, practicality, and fuel efficiency, making it an ideal daily driver.
A daily driver should be engaging but not demanding. The X3 M40i excels in this role, requiring less driver attention and offering a more relaxed ownership experience. It’s a car that handles daily duties with ease, without constantly reminding you of its high-performance potential.
Performance Score: 8. M-ish Power
The BMW X3 M40i interior showcasing a blend of sporty design and comfort features, highlighting the gauge cluster and trim details.
Engine and Transmission
The X3 M40i’s performance is surprisingly potent. It’s quicker than a previous-generation E9X M3. Upgrading to larger wheels necessitates summer performance tires, underscoring its sporting intent. BMW’s reputation for underrating engine output suggests the B58 engine could potentially exceed its official 400 horsepower rating. The engine delivers a satisfying surge of torque from low RPMs, making revving unnecessary yet highly rewarding.
In Comfort mode, the M40i behaves like a refined daily driver. Switching to Sport mode transforms its character, sharpening throttle response and making the transmission eager to downshift. This allows for engaging drives on winding roads.
The engine and exhaust note are also noteworthy. The M40i produces a satisfying roar on startup and a pronounced “braap” sound with each upshift in Sport mode, providing a taste of M car theater without being intrusive during normal driving. Furthermore, the M40i achieves significantly better fuel economy, a practical advantage over the X3 M over the long term.
A comfortable ride experience in the BMW X3 M40i, demonstrating its ability to balance sportiness with everyday driving comfort, particularly in suspension tuning.
Suspension and Steering
Considering the SUV form factor, the X3 M40i surprisingly features lower profile tires than the X3 M. The steering feel is remarkably similar to the X3 M, albeit potentially lighter. The M40i forgoes the option of a locking M Differential, which enhances cornering traction in the X3 M, but it’s arguably not essential for most drivers.
While the X3 M’s suspension leans towards harshness, the M40i errs slightly on the side of softness. Given the X3’s weight, a firmer suspension is generally beneficial for controlling body roll. However, for those prioritizing ultimate cornering G-forces, an SUV might not be the ideal platform regardless.
The X3 M40i offers a comfortable ride that firms up adequately in Sport mode, providing an all-day comfortable driving experience with a hint of sportiness.
Brakes
Braking components are largely shared between the two models, with the X3 M notably featuring cross-drilled discs. The four-piston calipers represent a significant upgrade compared to older M cars. While the brakes perform well, the M40i’s pedal feel can become slightly soft under sustained hard use. These are not track-focused brakes, but the X3 M40i is not intended as a dedicated track machine.
Features and Comfort: 9. Special Sauce
A comfortable and well-appointed interior of the BMW X3 M40i, emphasizing the pleasant cabin environment and feature set.
Surprisingly, the X3 M40i’s interior feels more premium than the base X3 M. It includes a sunroof, the same Harman Kardon sound system, Tacora Red SensaTec upholstery (which closely mimics leather but is more family-friendly), and the same steering wheel.
While the “Sport” seats in the M40i were initially appealing, over time, they have proven to be somewhat lacking in lateral support. The passenger seat also lacks lumbar support and bolster adjustment due to parts shortages. However, compared to the base X3 M, the M40i’s interior offers a more inviting and feature-rich environment.
The sunroof feature in the BMW X3 M40i, contributing to a brighter and more open interior ambiance, enhancing passenger comfort.
The X3 M40i, especially when fully loaded, offers a sense of occasion that rivals the base X3 M. The question arises whether the same can be said for an M340i versus an M3, suggesting a potential broader challenge for differentiating M Performance and full M models in terms of perceived specialness.
Mirror, Mirror
Visually, the X3 M40i closely resembles the X3 M, particularly when equipped with options like gloss black wheels and Shadowline trim. Even the M grille badge is present on the M Performance model. Adding Tanzanite Blue II Metallic paint further enhances the M40i’s visual appeal. The most significant exterior differentiator remains the quad exhaust outlets on the X3 M. The front bumper designs of both models are similarly aggressive and intake-heavy.
The BMW X3 M40i vs the X3 M: The Real Question
The fundamental question isn’t simply which is “better,” but rather: Would you prefer a fully equipped BMW X3 M40i with a comfortable ride and desirable features, or a base X3 M with a spartan interior and a punishingly stiff suspension? Even with full options, a price gap of around $6,000 persists between the two. While the S58 engine in the X3 M is undeniably potent, the B58 in the M40i is exceptional in its own right. For a blend of comfort, features, and spirited performance for everyday driving, the X3 M40i emerges as the more compelling choice.
For those seeking the ultimate M wagon experience, the ideal solution might be moving to Europe and opting for an M3 Touring.
Special thanks to Lana for providing her beautiful X3 M for this comparison!
2022 BMW X3 M Specifications
Vehicle Type: Front-engine, 5-passenger, 4-door SUV
PRICE
Base: $74,400
As Tested: $75,050
POWERTRAIN
3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six
473 horsepower @ 6,250 RPM
457 lb-ft @ 2,750 RPM
Eight-speed automatic transmission
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 114.2 in
Length: 184.8 in
Width: 74.4 in
Height: 60.8 in
Curb Weight: 4,610 lbs
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 17 / 15 / 20 MPG
Range city/highway: 258.00 / 344.00
2022 BMW X3 M40i Specifications
Vehicle Type: Front-engine, 5-passenger, 4-door SUV
PRICE
Base: $61,000
As Tested: $68,425
POWERTRAIN
3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six
382 horsepower @ 5,800 RPM
369 lb-ft @ 1,800 RPM
Eight-speed automatic transmission
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 112.8 in
Length: 185.9 in
Width: 74.7 in
Height: 66 in
Curb Weight: 4,392 lbs
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 23 / 21 / 26 MPG
Range city/highway: 361.20 / 447.20
