BMW is giving the X3 M50 a significant performance upgrade, with the brand’s flagship M Performance SUV gaining more power from its turbocharged straight-six engine. The updated BMW X3 M50 now produces 437bhp, while a new motorsport-inspired Black Package adds a more aggressive visual identity to the range-topping X3.
The revised 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine continues to use mild-hybrid technology, but BMW has recalibrated the powertrain to deliver an additional 44bhp over the current model. Power rises from 393bhp to 437bhp, further strengthening the X3 M50’s position as a high-performance alternative to premium SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC.
With the additional output sent through BMW’s all-wheel-drive system, the updated X3 M50 can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 4.4 seconds. That represents an improvement over the current model and gives the X3 M50 performance figures that begin to overlap with some considerably more focused performance SUVs.
BMW X3 M50 Black Package adds motorsport-inspired styling
Alongside the mechanical upgrade, BMW has introduced a new Black Package for the X3 M50. The package is designed to give the SUV a more purposeful appearance, drawing inspiration from BMW’s motorsport heritage.
UK pricing for the BMW X3 M50 Black Package starts at £81,569.
The exterior treatment includes 22-inch black alloy wheels, gloss-black brake calipers and gloss-black BMW and M badges. The combination gives the X3 M50 a significantly darker and more aggressive appearance without changing the fundamental design of the latest-generation X3.
The Black Package continues into the cabin, where BMW has added extensive Alcantara trim. The material is used across areas including the instrument panel and centre-console trim, while the headrests receive new M-logo stitching.
The seats also feature blue stitching, providing a subtle contrast to the predominantly dark interior. Selected controls are finished in BMW Individual’s so-called “Clarity Glass”, adding another premium detail to the M Performance SUV.
More updates for the wider BMW X3 range
The changes are not limited to the X3 M50. BMW is also introducing a series of interior and equipment updates across the wider X3 range, with the revisions becoming available on models from December.
One of the most noticeable changes is the introduction of a new soft-touch surface on the section of the dashboard directly in front of the central infotainment display. BMW has also revised the stitching pattern on the instrument panel.
Additional ambient lighting has been introduced around the centre console and door handles, while the glovebox opener has been redesigned.
These changes are relatively subtle, but they are intended to improve the perceived quality of the X3’s interior and give the SUV a more sophisticated cabin environment.
BMW X3 20 xDrive upgraded for Euro 7
BMW is also preparing the entry-level X3 20 xDrive for the next stage of European emissions regulations.
The four-cylinder engine used by the X3 20 xDrive has been upgraded to comply with the incoming Euro 7 regulations. The move is part of BMW’s wider effort to ensure that its combustion-engine models remain compliant as European emissions requirements become increasingly stringent.
While the X3 M50 focuses on performance, the updates to the X3 20 xDrive highlight BMW’s intention to continue developing its combustion-engine technology alongside its growing range of electrified vehicles.
BMW X3 M50 continues to bridge performance and practicality
The updated BMW X3 M50 occupies an increasingly important position within BMW’s SUV line-up. It combines the practicality and everyday usability expected from an X3 with performance traditionally associated with BMW’s M cars.
The increase to 437bhp gives the M50 considerably more firepower, while the 4.4-second 0-62mph time makes it a genuinely rapid family SUV. At the same time, the mild-hybrid powertrain and all-wheel-drive system are designed to maintain the versatility expected from a premium daily driver.
The new Black Package adds another layer of appeal for buyers looking for a more distinctive appearance, with 22-inch wheels, black exterior details and an Alcantara-heavy interior creating a noticeably sportier specification.
With these updates, BMW is keeping the X3 M50 competitive in a segment that includes increasingly powerful versions of the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5 and other premium performance SUVs.
BMW X3 M50: key facts
- Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six mild hybrid
- Power: 437bhp
- Previous power: 393bhp
- Power increase: 44bhp
- Drivetrain: all-wheel drive
- 0-62mph: 4.4 seconds
- Black Package price in the UK: from £81,569
- Black Package wheels: 22-inch black alloy wheels
- Interior: Alcantara, M-logo stitching and blue seat stitching
- Wider X3 updates: available from December
- X3 20 xDrive: upgraded four-cylinder engine designed to meet Euro 7 requirements
The latest BMW X3 M50 therefore brings more power, sharper performance and a new visual package to BMW’s premium SUV line-up, while the broader X3 range receives a series of detail and technology improvements. For buyers seeking a fast, understated and practical BMW SUV, the updated M50 strengthens its position as one of the most performance-focused versions of the current X3.
Source: Autocar