BMW X3 M: a Future in Electric?

At BMW, the current compact SUV X3 is available with a Motorsport-badged version with astonishing performance. But could the next generation switch to electric?

This is at least the hypothesis suggested by the well-informed Bmwblog.com website, as well as by our American colleagues at Carscoops.com. The question indeed recurs frequently, especially for German brands known for their large-displacement engines. The BMW M, Audi S and RS, and Mercedes AMG are increasingly turning to hybridization to cut CO2 emissions and escape dissuasive taxes, particularly in the French market.

At BMW, the high-performance models marked with “M” include: the electric BMW iX M60, BMW XM plug-in hybrid, BMW M 760e plug-in hybrid, and BMW i4 M50 electric.

However, within the BMW X3 lineup, which we remind you is a best-seller in many international markets, including France, the range topped by the M version features a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged petrol engine producing 510 hp, subject to the maximum eco tax. Customers can also opt for a fairly successful 100% electric version, BMW iX3, which we have already had the opportunity to test, but whose performance does not currently allow access to the prestigious M Motorsport badge.

A prototype that could very well confirm this hypothesis

But this could soon change with the upcoming generation of the BMW X3 expected in 2024, and more generally with all BMW M models.

According to Bmwblog.com, rumors are growing more insistent about the exclusive release of a 100% electric version under the hood of the BMW X3 “M” due to a recently observed BMW i4 M50 prototype equipped with four electric motors, which could well preview the next electric direction of the company’s sporty models. Stay tuned.

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