We got our hands on the range-leader of the recently launched BMW X3 range, the BMW X3 M50 xDrive, to bring you this driving review.

A few months ago we attended the launch of the all-new BMW X3. The locally-produced model left a favourable impression with us. We had a brief spells behind the wheel of all derivatives that made up part of the initial launch roll-out. A few days ago we were presented with an opportunity to review the top-spec BMW X3 M50 xDrive, and we were quick to accept.

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Baby XM

BMW’s designers probably had to walk a very fine line when penning the newest X3. They could not be as bold as they were with the big dog XM or opinion dividing M3/4. The X3 is a top-seller for the brand, and the company would be well aware of the vast array of tastes across buyers in different parts of the world. As a result, the latest X3 is a handsome, if rather middle-of-the-road take on the brand’s current design language. The latest X3 is just a few millimetres wider and longer (29 and 34, respectively), but somehow manages to look a lot larger than its predecessor.

Click here to learn more about the range-leading BMW XM.

The front-end has a set of LED headlamps and a rather conservative pair of kidney grilles. However, the signature central intake does feature an illuminated outline. The latter may not be to everyone’s taste, but it certainly makes onlookers aware of what they are looking at, at night anyway. Out favourite view of this vehicle is the rear three quarter. The taillamps and overall rear aspect remind us of the XM, which is not a bad thing. It looks fresh and new, while remaining simple and uncluttered in execution. Our test unit was also fitted with a set of dual-tone 21-inch alloys.

Familar Inside

BMW’s current line-up has taken on quite a familiar appearance. One that seems to be permeating the auto industry at the moment. The cabin features dual digital screens across the facia. The infotainment screen features the company’s latest operating system. Interestingly, the touchscreen interface also features a scroll wheel between the seats, a sort of cross between iDrive and touchscreen. Increased digitalisation of the cabin means you will find very few buttons and switches. Even the controls for air volume from the front air-vents is carried out by haptic switches, which seems to be taking it a little too far.

Derivatives down the pecking order have no natural materials in the upholstery. The range-leading BMW X3 M50, however, does have leather on the seats and a few contact points. BMW has also applied an interesting ‘woven’ fabric as a cover for the top of the facia as well as the top of the door cars. This material is tactile in nature and a lovely departure from the usual leather or plastic. At any rate, the interior of the X3 M50 is a cosseting place to be with excellent NVH characteristics.

M-Lite

BMW has yet to confirm an X3M derivative in the new line-up. That means the BMW X3 M50 is the range- and performance halo, for now anyway. The features a six-cylinder inline turbopetrol engine. The 3,0-litre twin-turbocharged unit (code B58) produces a maximum of 293 kW with the help of 48V mild hybrid technology. Peak torque is rated as 580 N.m. The engine is a tried and trusted part of BMW’s arsenal. The start-up procedure is less angry and far smoother than in its predecessor. This is large part down town the 48V mild hybrid component of the powertrain.

At any rate, the B58 is a smooth operating unit with a healthy appetite for revs. It makes all the right noises, too. Some of it is artifical ie created by the audio system and piped in to the cabin via the speakers, but the occasional pop from the quartet of exhausts is the real deal. BMW says the M50 (no longer an ‘i’ in the names of petrol-powered derivatives) can sprint from rest to 100 km/h in 4,6 seconds. That figure is quite easy to believe.

A Dynamic Delight

However, its straight line acceleration is just one party trick. The BMW X3 M50 really comes alive the faster one drives it. As already mentioned, the engine enjoys the far side of the rev counter. In addition, the dynamic responses are a match for the near 300 kW on tap. This, rather large, vehicle, responds with verve when faced with a set of twisty roads. The 580 N.m of torque on tap helps force it out of tighter corners, with a noticeable level of rear-wheel-drive bias. That latter sensation will be appreciated by BMW die-hards. The X3’s steering is not overly communicative, but the entire platform feeds back enough info to know when you are approaching the edges of adhesion.

Summary

BMW’s X3 is the brand’s best-selling model worldwide. It’s pretty easy to realise why this is the case. It fulfills several roles and seems to perform each of them pretty well. It is large, so has plenty of space as a family car. It also happens to be quite comfortable, which makes it ideal for long road trips. In M50 guise it also has a fair lick of pace and proper dynamics to match. As a result this version could well be the new benchmark in the segment.

Model: BMW X3 M50 xDrive
Price: R1 545 447
Engine: 3,0-litre, inline six, turbopetrol
Transmission: eight-speed, automatic, AWD
Max power: 293 kW
Max torque: 580 N.m
0-100 km/h: 4,6 sec
Top speed: 250 km/h
Fuel consumption: 8,2L/100 km