The BMW X3 M has firmly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the performance SUV segment. Initially, I contemplated bringing my X3 M40i to the test, but the reality is, the 2022 Bmw X3 M operates in a different league entirely. This isn’t just an M-Sport variant; this is a genuine “Real M Car,” delivering a driving experience that lives up to the prestigious badge. The question then arises: how does it stack up against its iconic sibling, the M3? To find out, I visited Detailer’s Domain and had the opportunity to thoroughly examine and experience Phil’s brand-new, facelifted 2022 BMW X3 M.
A Closer Look at the 2022 BMW X3 M Competition
First impressions of this 2022 X3 M are striking. Finished in BMW Individual British Racing Green, meticulously prepped by Phil from Detailer’s Domain, it’s undeniably a visually stunning vehicle. The Competition Package, while adding $7,000 to the price tag, feels essential. Without a manual transmission option available, the Competition Package becomes a must-have to truly maximize the X3 M’s potential. This upgrade brings a unique and more aggressive exhaust note, supremely supportive M Sport Seats, distinctive M Seat Belts, and Extended Shadowline trim. Completing the look are larger, M3-inspired wheels and, crucially, a power bump, pushing the output to an exhilarating 30 additional horsepower.
The sophisticated Tartufo interior beautifully complements the classic British Racing Green exterior of this 2022 BMW X3 M Competition. The Shadowline trim adds a touch of modern aggression.
Under the hood, the heart of the 2022 X3 M, the S58 engine, has been refined to mirror the specifications of the M3. With updated internal components, it now churns out a formidable 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, matching the M3 Competition’s output. Despite the SUV’s added weight, the X3 M delivers comparable straight-line speed and, thanks to its all-wheel-drive system, achieves launches that are just as ferocious as the M3 Competition.
While enthusiasts seeking a manual gearbox might still gravitate towards the M3 or M4 Base models, for any other new M car in the lineup, the Competition Package elevates the experience to another level.
Stepping inside, the interior of the 2022 X3 M shares a strong resemblance to my own X3 M40i. However, key M-specific differentiators are immediately apparent. The dashboard boasts an M-specific design, again mirroring the M3, and the M seats provide significantly enhanced bolstering and support compared to the standard seats in the M40i. The M steering wheel and shifter are consistent with the rest of the current M model range, creating a cohesive and sporty ambiance.
Behind the Wheel: Driving Dynamics of the 2022 X3 M Competition
The 21-inch Style 892 M wheels on this 2022 BMW X3 M Competition, while visually similar to the M3 Competition wheels, maintain a square setup for optimal SUV handling.
On the road, the 2022 BMW X3 M delivers precisely what you would expect: a taller, more muscular M3. The ride is undeniably firm, a characteristic stemming from the stiffer springs necessary to manage the SUV’s increased weight and higher center of gravity. The sensation of sitting “on” the car rather than “in” it is a subtle but persistent reminder of its SUV nature.
Having previously tracked older F-generation X5 M and X6 M models, I recall a less refined and more challenging experience. Those earlier performance SUVs exhibited noticeable body roll and lean in corners, along with considerable dive under braking and squat during acceleration. Pushing them hard on a track demanded more driver input and management. In contrast, this new 2022 X3 M represents a significant leap forward. It feels remarkably composed and is just as rapid as those V-8 powered predecessors, if not more so in many situations. If you’re seeking an SUV that defies expectations in terms of handling and agility, any current BMW X M model will impress, but the X3 M’s more compact dimensions make it inherently more engaging and nimble than a larger X5 M.
However, the laws of physics remain in play. At approximately 4,600 lbs without a driver, the X3 M is still a substantial vehicle. While incredibly capable for an SUV, a track environment isn’t truly where an X3 M belongs. But when you point it towards a winding road, the character transforms.
Freed from the constraints of track performance, the 2022 X3 M emerges as an exceptional all-around vehicle. It retains the desirable traits of my X3 M40i – practicality, comfort, and everyday usability – but amplifies them with significantly more power and dynamic capability. While winter tires are essential for colder climates, the X3 M functions as an almost ideal daily driver in most conditions. The ride might be considered firm by some, and the exhaust note is always present, but if those aspects prove too intense, the X3 M40i remains a more comfort-oriented alternative. Cargo space is generous, and Phil’s choice of BMW Individual paint elevates the visual appeal far beyond more commonplace X3 versions.
The digital instrument cluster in the 2022 BMW X3 M showcases BMW’s contemporary design language. The M Sport seats are a key interior upgrade distinguishing it from the X3 M40i.
2022 X3 M vs. G80 M3: Sibling Rivalry
A comparative shot highlighting the size and stance differences between the 2022 BMW X3 M SUV and the G80 M3 sedan. The unavailable-in-the-US G81 M3 wagon is mentioned as a desirable alternative.
Unsurprisingly, the 2022 X3 M and G80 M3 share a close familial bond. The X3 M genuinely feels like a taller, hatchback version of the M3. They share core components, from the potent S58 engine to the M-specific steering wheel. To differentiate them, the X3 M boasts nicely stitched seats and offers an optional panoramic moonroof. The M3, with its lower center of gravity and reduced weight, exhibits a more playful and agile character. However, the X3 M arguably offers slightly superior steering feel and a marginally more appealing exhaust note.
The M3 can convincingly serve as a “special occasion” car, while the 2022 X3 M is truly engineered for daily driving practicality without compromising on exhilarating performance. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and driving priorities.
Phil’s lowered G80 M3 showcases an aggressive, squat stance in contrast to the taller 2022 BMW X3 M, emphasizing their different design philosophies.
BMW Individual British Racing Green Paint for the X3 M
Phil’s 2022 X3 M stands out as the first to be finished in British Racing Green, a timeless and sophisticated color that beautifully complements the SUV’s design lines. BMW recently expanded the range of Individual paint options available for the X3 and X4 models, including:
- Frozen Black Metallic
- Frozen Marina Bay Blue
- Grigio Telesto Pearl
- Ruby Red II
- Urban Green
- Malachite Green
- Nardo Grey
- Frozen Deep Grey Metallic
BMW also provides an online visualizer tool allowing customers to configure their personalized Individual X3. You can explore the BMW Individual Visualizer here.
This 2022 BMW X3 M in British Racing Green serves as a compelling example of the unique personalization options available through BMW Individual.
Interestingly, British Racing Green is not currently listed among the standard Individual colors for the X3 M. Furthermore, the Individual color palette for the X3 M is more limited compared to models like the M3. This is attributed to BMW’s South Carolina plant, which is in the process of expanding its Individual Color capabilities and is gradually introducing more adventurous color options.
With Phil’s British Racing Green X3 M now in existence, prospective owners have a tangible example to reference should they desire the same distinctive color. Navigating the BMW Individual ordering process can sometimes be nuanced, and further details on this process can be found in this guide to ordering a BMW Individual paint.
Special thanks to Phil at Detailer’s Domain for providing the opportunity to photograph and review the 2022 BMW X3 M!
