BMW Malaysia has expanded its premium mid-size segment with two M powered SUVs: the BMW X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition. The two latest additions to the BMW X family were launched alongside the BMW M8 Coupe and M8 Gran Coupe.
BMW X3 M Competition
The X3 M Competition promises high-performance adventures to its driver no matter what road they travel on. BMW chalks this up to the X3 M Competition’s sporty nature with the high-revving S58 3.0-litre biturbo engine that offers an impressive 510hp and 660Nm of torque between 2,600 to 5,950 rpm.
An eight-speed M Steptronic transmission delivers maximum performance and agility to the four wheels. Drivers may choose from three distinct modes – Efficient, Sport and Sport Plus, each differentiated by their shift times.
According to BMW, the X3 M Competition is able to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds. Its top speed is electronically capped at 250km/h while its average fuel consumption is rated at 10.6-litres per 100km.
Coming down to looks, the X3 M Competition boasts a commanding front end with athletic proportions and M design elements hinting at its performance potential at first glance. Marked by double kidney grille and powerful air intakes, the X3 M Competition rides tall with large 21″ M light alloy wheels.
Apart from that, you get a distinct front apron with large, hexagonal air intakes as well as adaptive LED headlights and full LED taillights.
The interior welcomes drivers with race-inspired M characteristics including an M leather steering wheel with paddle-shifters, red M Drive buttons and a red Start/Stop button.
The M Sport seats are furnished in Merino leather (available in black, Sakhir Orange or Adelaide Grey) and feature a M badge just below the head restraint. You also get a redesigned M gear selector, M seat belts and M foot pedals.
It comes with a 10.25″ centre display that is hooked up to a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. It also supports Apple CarPlay.
In terms of boot space, the X3 M Competition holds 550 litres and is able to expand up to 1,600 with the seats folded down.
BMW X4 M Competition
If you prefer something more sporty, there is the X4 M Competition. It is a Sports Activity Coupe, that is designed by its low-slung roofline, making it instantly recognisable. Now, the X4 M Competition offers many similar features to the X3 M Comeptition, you get the same S58 3.0-litre biturbo engine with the same output and top speed.
On the front, you will find blacked-out kidney grille, side gills and wing mirror caps add to the striking look of the vehicle.
Much like the X3 M Competition, the inside of the X4 M Competition sports M Sports aesthetics can be found throughout the cabin. In both models, passengers in the rear benefit from adjustable seatbacks and sunblinds.
The M-specific digital instrumental panel remains the same on the two models, with the same sound system and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
In terms of boot space, the X4 M Competition offers 525 litres. Drivers have the option of expanding it by folding the rear seats, increasing it to 1,430 litres.
The two latest X series models come with a range of safety features that include BMW’s Driving Assistant Plus and Parking Assistant Plus. It also comes with forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, active cruise control and parking assistant.
Exterior colours include Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Donington Grey, Phytonic Blue, Sophisto Grey, and the new Toronto Red .
Pricing and availability
The Bavarian automaker announced that the two models will be available at all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide. Retail pricing (on the road, without insurance) for the two models are:
BMW X3 M Competition – RM886,551.58
BMW X4 M Competition – RM904,276.60
Interestingly, the X4 M Competition is listed on BMW’s website as a CKD model (Completely Knock Down), which referring to vehicles that were put together at a local manufacturing facility. Though when we downloaded the PDF price list for Peninsula Malaysia just at the bottom of the page, the X4 M Competition is listed as a CBU (Completely Built-Up) model, a fully imported vehicle. Buyers can save up to RM30,523.40 from SST exemption alone.
Owners will receive a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled service programme. BMW has its Balloon Financing Plan that allows the BMW X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition to be owned with monthly instalment plans starting from RM 10,118.00 and RM 10,318.00 respectively (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a five-year tenure).
Customers can also book the new BMW M models on its website at RM5,000 each and be in the running to bring home a new BMW i8 Coupé.
To find out more about the BMW X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition visit their respective product pages on BMW’s website.
