2024 BMW X3 M40i Review: Thrilling Luxury SUV Performer
For driving enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush with everyday practicality, the BMW X3 M40i delivers an impressive combination of thrilling performance and premium luxury. As BMW’s mid-size performance SUV offering, the X3 M40i bridges the gap between the standard X3 models and the full-bore X3 M. But just how well does it blend high-speed thrills with daily-driving refinement?
The BMW X3 M40i succeeds as the ultimate sporty luxury SUV by delivering blistering straight-line acceleration from its potent turbocharged inline-6 engine while surrounding occupants in a well-appointed cabin loaded with premium features and technology. This detailed review will cover the X3 M40i’s exhilarating performance capabilities, head-turning design inside and out, comfortable and tech-laden interior, fuel efficiency, safety ratings, pricing details, and how it stacks up against key rivals.
Design and Exterior Styling
The BMW X3 M40i announces its performance intentions with an aggressive yet elegant exterior design. The signature BMW kidney grille gets an enlarged M-specific treatment flanked by sleek LED headlights. Sculpted front and rear bumpers, along with aerodynamic side skirts and a rear diffuser, reduce drag and hint at the M40i’s sporting credentials.
From the side profile, the M40i looks planted and muscular with its lowered M Sport suspension and standard 20-inch M double-spoke bi-color wheels filling the swollen fenders nicely. The rear features signature LED taillights and quadruple exhaust finishers integrated into the bumper.
Performance and Powertrain
At the heart of the BMW X3 M40i’s exhilarating performance is BMW’s iconic 3.0-liter TwinPower turbocharged inline-6 engine, producing an astonishing 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an ultra-smooth 8-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel-drive, this powerplant rockets the X3 M40i from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
For a dose of extra enthusiasm, the engine is augmented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that can provide an additional 11 horsepower boost under hard acceleration. The M Sport exhaust system also amplifies the inline-6’s glorious soundtrack, particularly in the more aggressive driving modes.
How does the BMW X3 M40i drive and handle?
Despite tipping the scales at nearly 4,400 lbs, the X3 M40i drives much lighter than its curb weight suggests. The potent inline-6 delivers explosive acceleration from any speed, accompanied by a robust growl from the exhaust.
Handling is also remarkably composed, feeling more like a slightly elevated sports sedan than a top-heavy SUV. The M-tuned adaptive suspension firms up in Sport mode to reduce body roll through corners without becoming unbearably harsh. The quick and communicative steering also inspires confidence when driving spiritedly.
Of course, the X3 M40i can’t completely defy the laws of physics – there is noticeable understeer if you really push it to the limit. But for most drivers, its responsive handling and tenacious grip instill a sense of driving enjoyment rarely found in an SUV of this size.
Interior Design and Features
The X3 M40i’s premium cabin provides a welcoming environment swathed in high-quality materials and impeccable fit and finish. The M40i comes standard with sleek SensaTec upholstery, but buyers can opt for luxurious Vernasca leather in several colors. Heated front seats with aggressive side bolstering keep occupants planted during spirited driving.
Despite its serious performance capabilities, the X3 M40i doesn’t sacrifice everyday usability. The rear seats offer plenty of leg and headroom for adults, and the power liftgate reveals a spacious 28.7 cubic foot cargo area that expands to 62.7 cubes with the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats down.
All X3 models receive BMW’s latest iDrive 7 infotainment system with a large 12.3-inch central touchscreen display, supplemented by a digital instrument cluster and center console controller for redundant control inputs. While not the newest generation, iDrive 7 is logically laid out and highly intuitive to operate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard for seamless smartphone integration.
What’s new for the 2024 BMW X3 M40i?
For 2024, the X3 M40i receives only minor updates, including new exterior color options and enhanced USB-C ports for faster device charging. Otherwise, it carries over unchanged from the 2022 model year when the X3 received a comprehensive mid-cycle refresh.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
As expected, the trade-off for the BMW X3 M40i’s sizzling performance is relatively thirsty fuel economy. The M40i is EPA-rated at 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, or 23 mpg combined when using premium gasoline. However, many real-world tests indicate the X3 M40i can exceed these ratings with reasonable driving habits.
While not a fuel-sipper, the 48-volt mild hybrid system does help improve overall efficiency by allowing the engine to turn off when coasting and providing supplemental electric power under acceleration. The hybrid components also help eliminate turbo lag for instantaneous throttle response.
Is the BMW X3 M40i good on gas?
In the world of high-performance luxury SUVs, the BMW X3 M40i delivers decent – but far from stellar – fuel economy ratings. More efficient options include plug-in hybrid models like the BMW X3 xDrive30e or Volvo XC60 Recharge. Among direct competitors, the Audi SQ5 matches the M40i’s mileage, while the Mercedes-AMG GLC43 is slightly thirstier.
For most owners, the M40i’s acceleration and dynamic handling will likely outweigh potential fuel costs at the pump. But for maximum efficiency, the standard X3 xDrive30i with the turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder is the way to go.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2024 BMW X3 M40i is offered in a single, fully-equipped trim level. Including destination charges, pricing starts at $62,895. Key standard features include:
- 3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-6 (382 hp)
- 48V mild hybrid system
- xDrive all-wheel drive
- M Sport suspension and brakes
- 20-inch M bi-color wheels
- SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery
- Panoramic moonroof
- Heated front seats
- Live Cockpit Pro digital gauges
- Navigation and iDrive 7 infotainment
Popular options and packages add Vernasca leather upholstery, a head-up display, heated rear seats, a Harman/Kardon audio system, driver assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control, and upgraded 21-inch wheels or an aerodynamics kit.
How much does the 2024 BMW X3 M40i cost?
With options factored in, expect a well-equipped BMW X3 M40i to crest the $70,000 mark fairly easily when new from the dealership. A fully-loaded example with every possible luxury and performance extra can approach the $80,000 range.
Compared to key rivals like the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 and Audi SQ5, the X3 M40i is priced competitively in the upper stratosphere of the compact luxury SUV segment.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2024 BMW X3 includes several standard active safety technologies like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional advanced driver assistance features are optional, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane-keeping assist for semi-autonomous highway driving.
In crash testing, the structurally-similar X3 xDrive30i earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS for 2022, indicating excellent occupant protection. NHTSA has not yet rated the latest X3 generation.
X3 M40i vs Competition
The performance-tuned compact luxury SUV segment includes several capable contenders capable of giving the BMW X3 M40i a run for its money.
The Audi SQ5 matches the M40i’s turbocharged V6 power output and all-wheel-drive grip while delivering a slightly more upscale, tech-focused interior. However, the BMW counters with sharper handling dynamics and a more communicative driving experience overall.
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is another formidable competitor with a powerful twin-turbo V6, quick acceleration, and trademark Mercedes luxury appointments. But its heavier curb weight blunts some of the handling verve and agility that the lighter X3 M40i possesses.
For those prioritizing outright performance above all else, the Porsche Macan S is a tempting alternative. Its turbocharged V6 provides prodigious power along with the sublime steering and telepathic handling Porsche is renowned for. The tradeoffs are a firmer ride quality and less interior space compared to the X3.
The dark horse is the Genesis GV70 3.5T. This all-new luxury sport SUV from Hyundai’s premium division delivers stellar value with its punchy twin-turbo V6, upscale cabin, and comprehensive warranty coverage – all for thousands less than the X3 M40i’s asking price.
How does the BMW X3 M40i compare to the Porsche Macan S?
While the Porsche Macan S undoubtedly holds the performance edge with more power and sharper driving dynamics, the BMW X3 M40i makes a compelling case as the more well-rounded daily driver.
The M40i’s inline-6 engine may trail the Macan S’s twin-turbo V6 in outright thrust, but it delivers excellent real-world acceleration along with a more refined demeanor. Matched with BMW’s quick-shifting ZF 8-speed automatic, the powertrain provides a more linear power delivery compared to the Porsche’s peakier turbo setup.
From the driver’s seat, the Macan S has an edge with its slicker steering feel and tenacious grip that seems to defy physics. But the X3 M40i’s well-sorted suspension tuning keeps body motions nicely controlled while delivering a more compliant ride over poor road surfaces.
Passengers will also appreciate the X3’s roomier cabin with more rear legroom and cargo space than the Macan’s cramped quarters. The BMW also provides a more comprehensive list of active safety technologies.
Those willing to sacrifice the Porsche’s ultimate handling prowess can opt for the BMW X3 M40i as a slightly more livable (yet still exhilarating) luxury performance SUV with better everyday usability.
Let’s Complete
The 2024 BMW X3 M40i makes a compelling case as the ultimate “do-it-all” SUV by blending scintillating performance with premium luxury and everyday versatility. With a 0-60 mph time of just 4.4 seconds, this M-tuned hauler can embarrass far more exotic machinery when the roads open up. Yet it also delivers a comfortable ride, spacious accommodations, and an array of cutting-edge tech that make it easy to live with on a daily basis.
While pricing starts at a lofty $62,895, that amount secures entry to an exclusive club of compact luxury SUVs with legitimate sports car-baiting acceleration. Those seeking more value or extreme handling capabilities may prefer the Genesis GV70 or Porsche Macan S, respectively. But for those wanting an exhilarating all-around package with the BMW cachet and world-class engineering, the X3 M40i is an excellent choice at the crossroads of passion and practicality.
