BMW X3 M Serves Up Ballistic S58 Power For Daily Family Use

The current BMW M3 is a masterpiece of the fast saloon world, but its price and options list put it out of reach for many keen drivers. If you hanker after the same mechanical heart without the same financial hit, the BMW X3 M is a very smart detour. It was the first model to debut the S58 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six that now powers the latest M2, M3 and M4, and, thanks to a few years of depreciation, used examples can now be found for a fraction of what you would spend on a new M3. You still get the same core hardware, only wrapped in a mid-size SUV shell that is easier to live with every day.

BMW had already tested the water with brisk X3s before, but the X3 M was the first to receive the full M division treatment. Under the bonnet sits the S58 in either standard or Competition tune, with power figures that, not long ago, belonged firmly in supercar territory. Contemporary tests showed that the X3 M would comfortably better its official 0–62 mph claims, punching hard out of junctions and overtakes. An eight-speed automatic gearbox and xDrive all-wheel drive make sure that every surge of torque is put to the road cleanly, and the engine has proved robust and highly tuneable for owners who want to go further.

Straight-line pace is only half the story. The X3 M carries a full arsenal of chassis technology, including M-tuned adaptive suspension, an active rear differential and an all-wheel-drive system biased towards rear-axle involvement. The result is an SUV that feels far more like a tall coupé when you thread it along a twisting B-road, with strong body control and eager turn-in. The pay-off is a firmer ride than a regular X3, particularly on the larger wheel options, but for many, that is a small price to pay for this level of precision. Inside, you get the full M cabin treatment: deeply bolstered sports seats, M-specific trim, a chunky steering wheel with red M1 and M2 buttons that call up your favourite driving settings at a tap, and that stubby M gear selector on the centre console.

Set against an M3, the X3 M inevitably gives away a little ultimate poise. The saloon sits lower, weighs less and has a centre of gravity closer to the road, so on a circuit or a truly challenging route, it will always feel more incisive and adjustable. The M3 also offers rear-wheel drive and a manual gearbox for those who value interaction above outright numbers. Yet on real roads, where you are rarely anywhere near the limit, the gap narrows to the point that it hardly matters. The X3 M’s extra height gives a better view out, its all-wheel-drive traction works wonders when the weather turns grim, and the additional torque compared with some M3 versions helps it match them in everyday sprints.

Where the X3 M really strikes back is in practicality. Fold the rear seats, and you have a genuine load-lugger that will swallow bikes, dogs, pushchairs and a week’s worth of kit without complaint, all while delivering power that feels anything but sensible. For drivers who need one car to handle family duties, year-round commutes and weekend blasts, a well-chosen used X3 M offers a very compelling alternative to a new M3. You give up a little purity, gain a lot of usefulness, and keep that glorious S58 soundtrack every time you press the starter button.