#BMWX3M Test Drive Review
BMW's high-performance M series has now been applied to the SUV models X3 and X4, launching as the X3M and X4M.
The model I tested this time is the BMW X3M, which is priced at 10,580,000 KRW (approximately $8,000 USD).
(The X4M is priced at 10,820,000 KRW, or about $8,200 USD.)
The emblem symbolizing the M series is prominently displayed throughout the vehicle, thrilling male drivers with the X3M.
The exterior design features an M-exclusive double-strut kidney grille, clearly indicating that this model belongs to the M series.
The M-exclusive twin tailpipes, crafted from black chrome, enhance the sporty feel, and the variable exhaust flaps produce a more powerful sound when opened, intensifying the driving experience.
The aerodynamic design from the hood to the headlights maximizes the visual sophistication of the BMW X3M.
The M-exclusive air breather not only directs airflow away from the steering wheel but also adds style with the M series badge.
The M series features many design points, contributing to its overall sophistication.
I've always wanted to drive the BMW X3M since its launch, and I finally got the chance to test it at the #BMW Wirye Smart Showroom.
The M-exclusive compound brakes effectively dissipate heat, providing stable braking even on wet roads, giving drivers a sense of security.
The tire specifications are (front) 255 / 40 R21 and (rear) 265 / 40 R21.
During the test drive, I experienced emergency braking at high speeds, and I felt the car stop smoothly rather than abruptly.
The BMW X3M combines fun driving with stable braking and smoothness!
The BMW X3M allows for three different settings for the engine, suspension, and steering wheel.
The ability to adjust these three elements according to the situation and the driver's style might be the greatest advantage of the BMW X3M.
The double stitching in the M's signature blue and red colors adds flair, complementing the M emblem located beneath the steering wheel.
In summary, the specifications of the BMW X3M reveal that its 0 to 60 mph time is 4.2 seconds (the same as the X4M).
The curb weight is 4,537 lbs (2,060 kg), with dimensions of 185 inches (4,725 mm) in length, 74.5 inches (1,895 mm) in width, and 65.7 inches (1,670 mm) in height.
The M TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder gasoline engine comes with an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission, featuring a variable M sports exhaust system and M compound brakes.
The fuel efficiency is rated at 16.7 mpg (7.1 km/L).
The stitching on the seats incorporates a hexagonal honeycomb detail, and during my test drive, I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable they were.If the previous M series focused on speed for drivers, the BMW X3M I tested feels like it also caters to families.
As mentioned earlier, you can adjust the intensity of the engine, suspension, and steering wheel in three ways, and when all three are set to a lower intensity, it approaches the character of the existing X3.
The Merino leather seats provide a luxurious and comfortable feel, while the overall seat design wraps securely around the driver's waist, reminiscent of the existing M series design.
In conclusion, my experience with the X3M test drive left me with the impression of a family SUV equipped with a high-performance M engine.
The trunk space is quite generous at 550 liters.
When I usually play golf, I carry a stand bag, which fits diagonally into the trunk.
If both passengers have stand bags, they can stack them two-tiered without folding for a round.
If you have a large caddy bag, you can fold down the second row for storage.
Folding down the second row provides a trunk space of 1,600 liters.
The folding mechanism operates in a 4:2:4 ratio, allowing for individual folding to utilize only the necessary space.
The lower section of the trunk also offers ample space, exceeding expectations.
This area is ideal for securing smaller items that need to minimize movement during transit.
In summary, my experience driving the BMW X3M was characterized by an intense exhaust sound, and when I set everything to Sport+, the sense of speed was truly exhilarating.
The feeling of accelerating with such a powerful sound is something to behold.
With a maximum output of 480 hp and a peak torque of 61.2 kg.m, the power transfers to the driver seamlessly.
I initially thought a high-performance engine in a mid-size SUV might not deliver, but it proved to be exhilarating, providing a true sense of speed.
It was truly a moving experience.
I had been looking forward to driving this model since its launch, and experiencing such an emotional ride confirmed my reasons for anticipating the X3M.
However, for those looking to buy a family car while also wanting their own fun driving experience, the newly released BMW X3M is worth considering.
This test drive was assisted by Manager Byeon Seol-hwa, a certified sales representative at BMW Wirye Smart Showroom and BMW Samsung Sales Center.
Manager Byeon Seol-hwa (010-4504-9109)