BMW.SG | BMW Singapore Owners Community The Ultimate BMW Community – Established Since 2001
BMW is returning to the Rebelle Rally, one of the toughest off-road endurance challenges in the U.S., with the all-new BMW X3 M50. This year, veteran driver Rebecca Donaghe and navigator Syndiely Wade will take on the unforgiving deserts of California and Nevada, relying solely on paper maps and compasses. Spanning over 1,500 miles, this all-female rally runs from October 11–18, pushing the drivers and the vehicles to their limits without using GPS.
Rebecca Donaghe, now in her eighth Rebelle Rally, is excited to represent BMW again. After securing a podium finish last year, her expectations are high for this year’s race. “Last year, we weren’t sure what to expect, but this year, we’re aiming even higher,” Donaghe said. The rally is also an opportunity for BMW to demonstrate the off-road capabilities of their latest X3 M50 model, which has been slightly modified to handle the desert terrain while maintaining most of its stock features.
Navigator Syndiely Wade shares the excitement, saying that this rally will test not just the vehicle’s power but also her navigation skills. Using only traditional tools like topographic maps, the team will face gruelling conditions that demand precision and endurance from the vehicle and its crew.
The BMW X3 M50 competing in the rally has received minor modifications, such as custom skid plates, specialized tyres, and additional lighting for the harsh conditions. Despite these tweaks, the vehicle remains largely as it would appear in showrooms, showcasing its robust versatility. With 393 horsepower and a combination of performance and comfort, the X3 is more than ready for this ultimate test of endurance.
This year’s race will also serve as a preview for customers eagerly awaiting the fourth-generation BMW X3, which is set to hit U.S. showrooms in October. It offers two powerful engine options and continues BMW’s legacy of combining sportiness with practicality, making it perfect for everyday drives and extreme adventures.
