The new range-topper is powered by a new M Performance six-cylinder in-line engine, which succeeds in blending its insatiable appetite for revs and sublime pulling power with exemplary smoothness and efficiency.
The 3.0-litre unit generates output of 265 kW/360 hp (fuel consumption combined: 8.4 – 8.2 l/100 km [33.6 – 34.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 193 – 188 g/km), an increase of 40 kW/54 hp (+18 %) on the most powerful petrol variant in the outgoing range (the BMW X3 xDrive35i). Peak torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) represents a full 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) – or 25 per cent – hike.
This performance armoury equips the new BMW X3 M40i to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Yet despite the substantial power boost, the compact SAV burns just 8.2 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres on average (34.4 mpg imp).