The X3 M May Be the First BMW SUV to Get a Competition Package

BMW has yet to officially confirm plans to add an X3 M to its lineup, but it’s almost definitely happening. Why else would this prototype be testing on the Nürburgring? And why would this one show up in California? Considering how close to production-ready they look, we have a feeling the official announcement will happen soon. But from the sound of it, an even sportier version of the X3 M will soon follow.

Spanish automotive outlet Motor.es reports that BMW plans to offer the X3 M with a Competition Package similar to the ones found on the M3 and M5. So while the regular X3 M is said to make at least 450 hp, the Competition Package will reportedly boost that figure to 475 hp. With beefier brakes and a sportier suspension setup that includes upgraded springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars, the Competition Package should improve the X3 M’s handling, as well.

Based on a comment Frank van Meel, the head of BMW’s M division, made last year, we know the German automaker hasn’t ruled out Competition Packages for its M-badged SUVs. If this report is accurate, that would make the X3 M the first SUV in BMW’s lineup to offer the option.

“Well Competition is a strong growing market in demand, and that goes for every M,” van Meel told AutoGuide. “So that’s also a feature we’re going to use more often in the future. And that does not exclude SUVs.”

But while 475 hp would put the X3 M with the Competition Package ahead of the 440-hp Porsche Macan Turbo with the Performance Package, the 503-hp Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S will still be more powerful. However, if the Competition Package’s upgraded suspension makes the BMW more fun to drive, the power deficit may not matter.

Source: Motor.es

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