The All-New BMW X3 M50 Dazzles at Goodwood with Stunning Quad Exhaust Setup
The Goodwood Festival of Speed isn’t just a playground for the likes of the “G90” M5; the newly revamped “G45” X3 stole its fair share of glances too. BMW fans had four full days to ogle the latest from the Bavarian automaker, including the star attraction, the M Performance version of the X3.
A Fresh Badge and A New Look
Gone is the M40i moniker as it makes way for the freshly christened M50. This sleek crossover arrives with a sexy Dune Grey finish, flaunting quad exhaust tips that echo the aggressive style of its cousins—the X1 M35i, X2 M35i, and the recently unveiled M135. Completing the eye-catching look are two-tone 21-inch wheels, though for those with a more subdued taste, BMW offers identical wheels in an all-black version. And if 21 inches seems a bit too much, you can always opt for the still-impressive 20-inch wheels.
A Peek Inside the Beast
Stepping inside the M Performance X3, one immediately notices the plush Espresso Brown upholstery. However, this isn’t your typical leather; BMW calls it Veganza—essentially their term for vegan leather. Despite the introduction of iDrive 9 across other models, the X3 M50 retains the much-loved rotary knob, giving the tech-savvy and traditionalists something to cheer about.
What's Missing From the Lineup
Lovers of diesel should brace themselves for disappointment; the X3 M50 won’t be accompanied by a diesel counterpart as the X3 M40d has been retired. Similar news surrounds the full-fat X3 M—at least, as far as a petrol engine is concerned. Moreover, the sporty X4 crossover-coupe will soon be history. BMW has confirmed that the “G02” X4 won’t see another generation, leaving X4 aficionados with one less option in the near future.
Launch Timeline and Future Prospects
The freshly unveiled BMW X3 will hit the European and American markets by the fourth quarter of this year, with a broader international release stretching into 2025. Following this grand release, BMW has already set its eyes on rolling out the brand-new iX3, which will boast the cutting-edge Neue Klasse platform instead of the traditional CLAR.
A Bold Statement in the Luxury Crossover Segment
The BMW X3 M50 offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of BMW's crossover lineup, seamlessly combining aggressive aesthetics, luxurious interiors, and advanced tech. It holds its own, even in the prestigious environment of Goodwood, promising an exciting driving experience coupled with the eco-friendly initiative of vegan leather interiors. The new X3 M50 is not just a car; it’s a statement from BMW about where luxury, performance, and sustainability are heading.