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Automobile. BMW X3 M50, the very mean SUV

Automobile. BMW X3 M50, the very mean SUV

  • With its enormous front fascias and massive lines, this new-generation BMW X3 won't please everyone. But there's no doubt it leaves no one indifferent, especially in this M version. Photo BMW
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  • This new generation of X3 was born in 2024 and was released in a Motorsport version. With a length of 4.76 m, a width without the mirrors of 1.92 m, and a wheelbase of 2.87 m, this X3 is nothing like a small SUV. It is bigger than the first BMW X5 for example. Only the height drops a little to peak at 1.66 m. Photo BMW
  • The front end features an imposing grille, which adopts a unique pattern associated with horizontal air intakes. We find the very successful “BMW Iconic Glow” lighting and of course the full LED headlights. From the side, we see that the roofline is lower than on the previous generation, to give a “more sedan” appearance to this large SUV. Photo BMW
  • At the rear, let's go straight to what interests us here: this M50 has four exhaust outlets. Photo BMW
  • Inside this X3 M50, we find the techno atmosphere of the brand's latest innovations. We obviously find the curved screen
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  • The BMW Interaction Bar blends in with the new center console and steering wheel. Today we're going to the track, and we'll be happy to learn that the sports seats offer excellent lateral support and comfort, which is very appreciable for a sports car. The Harman Kardon Surround Sound Hi-Fi system delivers high-quality sound; it's a work of art. Finally, an induction charger keeps your smartphone charged. Photo: BMW
  • Technology is also good, as evidenced by these two beautiful 12.3 and 14.9-inch screens that offer everything a motorist has the right to expect in 2025. Even if the multiplication of functions requires a little getting used to. The space is generous, including in the rear seats which have all the comforts. USB-C connection, temperature settings, and even heated seats are available as an option. Photo BMW
  • Let's get down to business. Starting the straight-six is always a great moment, and we're spoiled, once again, by the soundtrack of this engine. As is the era, part of this performance is achieved
  • Under the hood, we have 398 horsepower, and the six-cylinder engine receives welcome help from a 48-volt mild hybrid system that adds 18 horsepower. From the first few meters, we have a frank and virile thrust, despite the beast's more than two tons. 0 to 100 km/h is completed in just 4.6 seconds. So this SUV will go fast in a straight line, but in bends? Photo BMW
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  • After a reconnaissance lap, we launch our X3 M50 into battle on the winding Miramas circuit. The front end enters the bend without any particular difficulty, and we quickly get into the game of increasing the pace. Everything seems quite easy, perhaps too easy. We will have to keep our wits about us and keep an eye on the speedometer, as the impression of speed is sometimes deceptive. Photo BMW
  • With the seemingly endless thrust of the six-cylinder and the exemplary handling of this X3, you quickly reach impressive cornering speeds. Let's not forget the feeling of security provided by the four-wheel drive xDrive and the exemplary responsiveness of the automatic gearbox. This eight-speed transmission has steering wheel-mounted paddles that are pleasant to use. Photo BMW
  • This X3 M50 is a war machine, but you can't forget to brake. Endurance or braking performance isn't the issue; the brakes are doing everything they can to slow this vehicle down. But weight is always a factor to consider when reaching such speeds on the track. Photo: BMW
  • Is an SUV's place on the racetrack? We won't answer that philosophical question today, but we have to admit that the performance lives up to the M myth. With this X3 M50, BMW has achieved the feat of making a vehicle weighing more than two tons, capable of cornering faster than many small sports cars designed for that purpose. Photo BMW
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  • The real question would be whether we enjoyed driving this M, and the answer will be a resounding yes! The thorny issue remains, with an ecological penalty of €30,922, which comes on top of a list price of €89,950. Photo BMW
  • Technical specifications Engine: Petrol - Mild Hybrid (48V) Six-cylinder in-line. Displacement in cm³: 2998 Power hp (kW): 398 (293) Torque in Nm: 580 Photo BMW
  • Gearbox: Automatic - 8 speedsTransmission: 4-wheel driveAcceleration 0-100 km/h in s: 4.6Top speed in km/h: 250Fuel consumption combined (WLTP) in l/100km: 7.7–8CO₂ emissions combined (WLTP) in g/km: 175–181Dimensions/weight: 4,755 mm/1,920 mm/1,660 mmWheelbase in mm: 2,865Unladen vehicle weight in kg: 2,055Battery capacity in l: 570–1,700Photo BMW

Are SUVs doomed to serve as sensible, practical family cars designed for commuting? No, says BMW, which invites us to try out a new model bearing the M badge, the latest X3 in M50 version, on the track! An SUV that transforms into a track car? We tell you everything in our slideshow.

Le Progres

Le Progres

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