2022 BMW X3 M COMPETITION: The SUV that wants to take your M3 away!

MotoMan trades in all the M3 and M4 BMWs we have been driving as of late for a tall BMW M3 Competition xDrive: The 503 HP BMW X3 M Competition. He attempts to answer the question: Can a smaller, performance SUV be good enough to replace the likes of the BMW M3, Mercedes C 63s and Audi RS5 on which these types of SUVs are based . . . the answer will scare most car folks.
#BMW #BMWX3M #BMWX3MCompetition #X3MCompetition
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[@Dapster8888]

I had the M40i for 18 months then went for the X3M Competition. M40i was a softer ride and relatively quick. The X3M is a harder ride but the sound and performance puts a grin on your face every time you drive it.

[@sonvfave]

Interesting as many are quoting 3.3 0/60 I was smitten driving the x3m after driving several m40i X3 and x4 So Wow what a car!!! And to the too hard crowd Please drive my porsche So so much softer in the bmw In the stiffest settings on broken roads But yes harder than a soft m40i But these cars are special Truly the m i want❤

[@kabes-us]

Respect the initial opinion of some reviewers and nothing personal against MotoMan, but I have to chime in here. I don't understand how reviews can have such firm positions when keeping a press car for only a few hours. I've had my '22 X3M comp since January and I still don't think it has peaked yet. If you are considering, don't let the harsh teeth rattling ride comments scare you away. The ride feels great if you want a nicely tuned sporty vehicle. Yes, it's firm, but I feel the ride stiffness thing has become a little overly exaggerated by many reviewers. If you drop it in comfort you'll have even a more compliant feel. Who buys an M comp and expects a plush ride anyway. We are practically taking track cars on the street. Not sure I understand the who buys these vehicles comment either. Maybe people just like the way they look and prefer it as a daily rather than a spine breaking sports car. I think when SUVs first came out the demo was geared towards the soccer mom. In 2022 the market has grown beyond that and I find the whole grocery getter type of comments to be very dated at this point.

[@gsthree9534]

I think his point is that a 4700 lb 4 seat lifted hatch is better when designed and built as a comfortable vehicle rather than trying to be a sportscar . It's just too big and too high to do that well.

[@kabes-us]

@@gsthree9534 Maybe, but why does it have to be trying to be a "sports car." Why can't there be a sports SUV/SAV category? As an owner of the vehicle, I love it and quite frankly, think it looks better in the front than an '22 M3. I like the beefy wide tire SUV look. I just don't think it has to be an either or between an SUV or a sports car. Nothing wrong with having a performance SUV category and it being judged as such. I've already crushed many "sports cars" in my 4700 lb SAV and had people in disbelief at the vehicles' capabilities. To each their own though. I just think the SUV conversation needs to evolve. Thanks for your reply and dialogue.

[@kenh4536]

@@kabes-us I totally agree and why I bought the 2022 X4MC over the M3 when I traded in my M4. The car does change quite a bit the more mile you put on it. I noticed a real difference around 300, 800, 1500 and 3000 miles. It just gets better and more compliant. I am running the >100 tire pressure values. My only complaint is the Continental tires make a loud thump over some expansion joints. My M4 never made this noise on the same road with the Michelin 4S tires. I also wonder if this noise is what some are mistaking for a stiff ride when it's hopefully just the tires causing the issue.

[@kabes-us]

@@kenh4536 Glad you’re enjoying it! I was fortunate to get Michelin Pilots on mine. Haven’t done an A vs B test against any other tire brands but no complaints so far with Michelin. I recently performed a tire upgrade and put 295/35 in the rear and 265/40 in the front. I love it so far! Putting my OEM tires up for sale.

[@kenh4536]

@@kabes-us Which Michelins did you get PS4 or PS5?

[@MicroTicks]

After having my license for 24 year and owning over a dozen vehicles from a 4Runner to a 911, this vehicle has everything a driver wants. All these older guys reviewing it have the same thing to say. "I dont understand it, but its incredible"

[@2Bunphettered788]

One of the best looking high-performance SUVs on market today. 👍

[@Jay-Z-1]

I really don’t understand how there is lack of understanding of the performance SUV market. I used to have a designated sports car and baby buggy, but it was an immense expense and a hassle. Two insurance policies, twice the upkeep and maintenance expense, twice the depreciation, twice the work to keep clean, and I only have so many garage spots…so to me, having one car that can do multiple things makes a ton of sense. Plus, 99% or more of sports cars dont actually see the track so the fractional performance that one gives up for immense gains of practicality, like holding a stroller, car seats, and ability to drive in snow make a performance SUV an attractive option for a consumer who has children. A wagon could make some sense, but they are not as good in snow and most Americans just dont like the looks of them.

[@micraw714]

Almost got one of these but ended up picking up an X3 M40i instead. Loving it so far and about to tune it!

[@5startrim1]

Hey update me wen you tune it

[@micraw714]

@@5startrim1 will do!

[@TheOverpowered1]

What made you get the m40i instead because I’m thinking of a x3m comp also

[@micraw714]

@@TheOverpowered1It was mostly due to cost and the fact that I already own an F87 M2 and E92 M3 so I figured the M40i would be enough for the family car 😁. The X3M comp is amazing though, I definitely wouldn't hesitate getting one!

[@TheOverpowered1]

@@micraw714 thanks for the info

[@michaelmesolellaesq]

Best all around car I’ve ever owned. And - the ride isn’t anywhere as near as you have described. It’s far better, and you if you want softer (why are you looking at M cars) put on different rubber for a softer ride. It’s superb. The I don’t get these cars media line needs to just stop. They’ve been out uhhh for quite along time, and for people who need the space and want the fun, that’s all you really need to understand. Build quality? No idea how these guys spend a few hours and want to comment on overall quality lol. This thing is a tank. Tested them all, and the Macan doesn’t have the space or does everything the x3mc can do in every aspect. This isn’t a solid review.

[@jamisonz3365]

That frozen paint looks amazing！ I would definitely pick an X4M with this color.

[@richardstreet2104]

I own an X3M Competition and the primary reason I chose this over an M3 is the fact that you can option a towbar. I need a towbar for my track car and there are few cars / SUVs that can offset this and the same dynamic performance so I feel it is a great all rounder.

[@BurnsRubber]

You were able to option a tow hitch on an X3 M? I just ordered mine 3 days ago and don’t think it’s an option here in the United States.

[@richardstreet2104]

@@BurnsRubber That's a shame, it's definitely an option in the UK ?!

[@BurnsRubber]

@@richardstreet2104 Agree it is a shame. You can option a tow hitch on the lower trims, like the X3 M40i. I will need to install one myself. Fortunately, there's a company, "Stealth Hitch" with a removable receptacle such that it looks like there's no hitch!

[@TheOverpowered1]

I’m ordering one what’s all the options you can get that’s not on the site?

[@Markus56165]

That paint job is absolutely beautiful!

[@aalberto4961]

I always love the M3 and always admire the ones I see out on the road. I'm glad that BMW offers the M3 in XM3 version for those who need a more practical vehicle. But ever since I bought 2 electric cars to daily drive (for me and my wife), my 3rd and only gas car (QX80) sat in the garage for almost 4 years. I got rid of it recently and went out car shopping to replace it. Had a strong urge to buy an M3 as a toy vehicle but ended up not justifying it since it defeated the purpose of me selling my gas car and needing an SUV as a 3rd vehicle. I ended up ordering a fully loaded iX 50 SUV instead.

[@gsthree9534]

That was the most positive review of a car you hate. You should have been a politician.

[@MotoManTV]

I'll take that as a compliment:)

[@gsthree9534]

@@MotoManTV - was meant as such.

[@firefighterps2]

Lipstick on a pig. Still a pig.

[@koopaGG]

Depreciation hit these pretty hard and now I'm starting to consider one. A used M3C xDrive is still around $85K in my area, but you can find these LCI X3MC's between $65-70K easily. Seems like a good deal at that price for what I'm guessing is 80-90% of the fun with more utility.

[@RB-xv4si]

Yep, I’m in the same boat. Waiting until the X3MC LCIs drop into the 50’s before I pull the trigger. I think that will be seen sometime in the second half of this year.

[@tomhumphris9701]

@@RB-xv4si I'm also playing the same game.

[@TheOverpowered1]

@@RB-xv4si yupp

[@claudioagmfilho]

🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷👏🏻, Best car from BMW! You can always use 20 inch BBS wheels and a KS coilover to lower the centra of gravity…

[@richlin2384]

I test drove the 2020 X3m and found the ride way to bouncy and stiff for a daily , did they fix it in the LCI?

[@Kelveron]

Regarding the plug-in hybrid idea, the X3M is already a heavy vehicle (just over 2 tonnes), so adding the hybrid gear - electric motor, battery etc - would substantially increase the weight and therefore adversely impact the dynamics and handling agility of what is supported to be a sports SUV. The change I'd like to see for BMW to slacken the ride quality somewhat. X3M is really good in most driving areas but its ride needs to be more pliant, even for a sporty vehicle.

[@TML34]

Ride is as comfortable as falling down a flight of stairs. 😅

[@BurnsRubber]

Thinking the same on the hybrid. Also if they were to do it with 80 mile electric range like he mentioned, they’d drop the straight six and fit a 4 banger. Either go full electric or don’t bother. The new Macan is going full E. Speaking of performance SUvs and ride quality… I just ordered an X3 M, my only reservation is the ride. The Macan doesn’t have the engine performance or technology, but it has the ride.

[@melvinpeoples381]

Funny, people purchase vehicles like these because they want to. Makes sense to me. Duh!

[@amirkazemi2517]

i have a 2023 X3, its one of the most cost effective luxury SUV's at under $50K out there

[@islesfan24]

This car is a beast. Love that color

[@garyclark6747]

Kumo’s says you must’ve been running a temperature when you dreamt that dream.😉 So I am to understand that behind the schnoz of this and the M3/M4 is the same engine that requires the same air intake and cooling. 🤔 Ok then, it is a styling decision then.

[@joesmith9216]

Nice, you are much smarter than the average car review guy.

[@vorsprungdurchtechnik5]

Performance SUVs are simply better than their "regular" counterparts.

[@edwindavidson6285]

Stepping up from a G20 M340i, This is my current struggle. More “practical” and slightly cheaper X3 M, or more performance M3 🤔

[@koopaGG]

Did you get an X3MC? I also have an M340i and have been wanting an M3C for a while, but the X3MC (even LCI) is easily $15K cheaper and I'm thinking about going with one.

[@Sevenfeet0]

Sometimes in life you need a baby buggy. Might as well have fun while you’re in one.

[@Whtmt]

Is that "frozen" color aftermarket? I don't see it online when I try to build...

[@IceDree]

Pictures don't do that blue any justice, an X6 M was driving in front of me last night was the same color, magnificent. The black wheels are such a turn off though, I can't wait for that phase to die out. On a side note, kudos for matching your shirt & socks with the X3, M.

[@need4boostz]

Good luck getting one at a good price. All M cars are currently 10k over sticker. I spec'd one pretty bare bones at 78k. Dealer wanted 8k down and $1,472/mo lease. Wait till the shortage is over.

[@TheOverpowered1]

What’s your credit?

[@JoeJacksonGT3]

@@TheOverpowered1 I looked into it as well. Similar payment. Credit is 780

[@fredbartos1766]

I have a 2021 X3MC; the ride is firm - as one would certainly expect in a M car - but jeez "rip your intestines out"; not even close. Even wifey has no qualms about ride quality. A phenomenal SAV that as others have said always puts a smile on your face. Oh, and it's a blast on VIR as well!

[@nickcheema907]

The X3 M40i and X3 M are performance bargains compared to the competition

[@jsupreme369]

I'm trying to hurry up, pay off my X3 M40i so I can use it towards a trade and down on the X3M Competition before the masses wakes up on this bargain deal. The X3 M40i has been my favorite car ever owned and driven. I can't wait for my X3M Competition.

[@Xhsy2527]

I think "BMW Individual Options" may just disappear and reappear as the "Alpina" version now that BMW have bought the Alpina company. That frozen colour is amazing though. Must be a nightmare to keep clean.

[@kathrinegner9167]

What blue is this ?

[@air-headedaviator1805]

A review I watched helped me understand the X3 M more. Its kind of like the WRX version of the 3 series. A taller floor in a more practical body in a more usable package (for boxes) with ridiculous performance. While not really a compact hatch its still a compelling product of a sporty utility vehicle.

[@factorseries]

Let's see how the next c & glc63 e-performance hybrid change the game when phev AMG

[@Great_America]

It’s just too expensive vs the competition…pun not intended.

[@kyolml]

I drove the earlier X3M it's just too stiff, it's less comfortable than an M3 in regular use. I think when it's less comfortable to use an SUV than a sedan, it's losing the point to buy the SUV version since what's the point driving a supposed more practical version of the vehicle but I have to suffer my comfort with it?

[@JeffVentura]

The 2022 LCI model is WAY better in terms of suspension tuning. Totally different car.

[@kyolml]

@@JeffVentura I hope so I will give it a try soon but based on motorman video it’s still super stiff from what he said during his driving portion, and you can see his head bouncing up and down all over the entire road, which is not present in the m3 m4 video, so I think it’s still stiffer than it should be

[@JeffVentura]

@@kyolml Well, it's still a true M car, so once you're in those waters, you're buying for more performance than comfort. That said, I've been in a 2020 X3MC, and the '22 X3MC is *noticeably* better (and quicker). I used to have a Camaro ZL-1 and it was pretty harsh too. I think the decision comes down to a first principle: are you buying for more top performance, or comfort? If you lean towards comfort, look at the X3 M40i. 85% of the speed with more comfort, and all you really give up is a bit of acceleration and driving dynamics in the curves.

[@kyolml]

@@JeffVentura My choice is M3 not X3M if performance is my goal

[@kenh4536]

I traded my 2016 M4 for a 2022 X4MC and the ride is definitely better in the X4MC. My wife rarely rode in the M4 but now we always take the X4MC. Shes says the rides fine. Its a great car with great performance and no it doesn't ride like my wife's Lexus but its not bad either in comfort. I wish the testers would say what mode they are in when they test these cars and what tire pressure they are running. The manual shows values for 100 for around town use. It does make a difference in the ride but no testers mention any of this.

[@teryyy5052]

Is it me or why is the resolution limited to just 480p? :(

[@DS-pk4eh]

I love X3, I used to have one some years ago. Great, great car. I can only imagine how this one is good. By the way, my 50th birthday is close, so if anyone super rich will offer me this one, you are more than welcome ;-)

[@A.ChristopherJohnson]

Skinny Cats love the Carbon seats, if, like most Americans, especially after the pandemic, are people are a tad heavier, regular heated & cooled please !!

[@chileshemubanga3594]

I'd get the X3 M-competition over the M3 & then get an M4 . 😀

[@mogie73]

Fantastic video!! I decided on the X3 M40i and added the **M sport differential. X3 M40i has a much more comfortable ride in contrast to the X3M and only 0.2 sec difference in 0 to 60 times compared to the full blown M version. SOURCE: MotorTrend's review of the new 2022 X3 M40i Question? When are you driving anything at 177 mph in LA, NYC, CHI or ATL traffic? ATL maybe ... 🤭 Maybe on track day!? Yet and still most tracks are geared towards 1/4 miles times not top speeds. Realistically track days might happen very seldom or never in the life that most will own this type of vehicle. (Basically it’s a tall sports car posing as a family SUV) 🤣 Also, the X3 M40i pushes the top speed to 155 mph when you order the vehicle with non-run flat tires. In addition, the look of the vehicles are considerably identical with the exception of additional paint options for the full M versions “paint” that may cost upwards of 4K in some cases. I’d rather happily spend that extra 4K on a tune/flash and downpipes that will power match or even obliterate the X3M. Definitely consider taking the X3 M40i for a drive before blindly deciding on taking the full blown M version you’ll be genuinely shocked with the POWER, better ride quality and real world usability vs the ROUGHEST riding yet absolutely phenomenal track day champion X3M!

[@cwx8]

Perfect decision IMO. How much did you save as well similarly spec'ed?

[@Theman26642]

The X3M competition does 0-60 in 3.3 and the X3 M40i in 4.4...so not sure what you're talking about

[@carfan5296]

Owned a 2018 X3 M40i for 2 years prior to my X3M. M40i is very nice and the 18’s were loud exhaust wise. However, don’t kid yourself it’s no X3M there is a significant difference. Low end torque delivery on the M40 is deceptive. Quick car but the hit of an X3M on boost mid to high end is another universe. All boils down to your driving style/preferences✌🏾

[@nathanlambert1502]

The only complaint I have is I wish bmw had better colours to choose from

[@BUEAU]

WORST beak down nightmare... Unless ur a masochistic mechai. Ok now I get it

[@holymolys7692]

Hoped they used carbon roof just like m3

[@firefighterps2]

Speaking of onion rings, this is the onion ring of the car world.

[@azel6]

When you will Drive the CT5-V BW

[@MotoManTV]

Sadly, it is looking like a CT5-V Blackwing episode is not in the cards. If you are a long time viewer of the show, you know we do not feature cars from OEMs that provide us late or little access. We used to a have a great relationship with GM - so much so, many of their designers and engineers have become personal friends. Unfortunately, their PR management changed some years back and since then, our access has dwindled to almost nothing. We have tried to work with them to come up with a solution that works for both of us, but it does not look as if we can get there from here. Wish I had more of a solution here, but the only suggestion is you guys start barraging their social media accounts - tagging us (@MotoManTV) - saying you want to start seeing Cadillacs, Corvettes and other GM cars back on the show.

[@jeffreymorris6930]

Honestly it's GM's loss. You have a fantastic channel. I will say that I'm glad to see BMW Spartanburg absolutely crushing their numbers, selling 433,810 vehicles in 2021, and, for the 8th year in a row, they're the number 1 US exporter of vehicles. I still prefer the sports sedan segment, but I'm glad that BMW makes a quality SUV, and makes them here in 🇺🇸.

[@francoisbalavoine1316]

The thing is, for example, in my country roads are very very bad, full of holes, imperfections and with SUV's you won’t suffer hitting the car beneath. Additionally, when it comes to crashes it's way more safer being in a taller-bigger car. Finally, transporting the family, SUV are more practical. The only car that I truly crave is a 992 Turbo. I have an GLC43 (2022) an X3 30i (2019) and an M3 e92 meca (2010), bimmers are leaving before summer to be replaced by a bigger SUV (I hope the only Levante GTS available my country) and if things work out, the Porsche. M3/M4 are for folks of hi 20's - low 30's but income doesn’t cope for a car like that, at least not in my country, and when finally the possibility arrives, you have wife and kids and M3/M4 are no longer on the table. I guess cars like M3/M4 are destined to disappear...

[@manologutie9064]

1st. Thanks for posting.

[@ronnymb67]

A baby buggy that will most likely never transport one. It will be a leased commuter.

[@GrooveTasticThang]

Had one, sold it. WAY to stiff to be usable. You end up driving around the ride short comings. Even the panoramic roof flexes on its seals creating pressure waves in the cabin. The stiffness gives head toss over every jolt. Your passengers will not be impressed. You buy an SUV to be an all rounder but this is heavily compromised. Get the M40i to enjoy all the e build quality and dynamics without the compromises.

[@cwx8]

Still quick as hell too

[@MrSchn3ll]

I agree, more plug in hybrids would be ideal. My wife's Panamera ehybrid is a perfect solution. I am considering a new M3 or a new C63 to replace my 911 as a do-everything car (losing garage space in new house sadly), and while the new C63 is a plug in hybrid, I don't know if I can get past the 4 cylinder engine... just not much out there anymore for sporty sedans (CT5/CT4 blackwing are very hard to get, Audi not sporty enough).

[@TML34]

Why “plug in” hybrid? Just a regular hybrid where the engine can charge the battery seems much more convenient.

[@MrSchn3ll]

@@TML34 because I can charge at home and do 80% of driving in full EV mode if I choose or have a full battery for hybrid mode and maximum power. It's the best of all worlds.

[@cwx8]

This thing is so dumb. It's too stiff and unusable. BMW's acquisition of Alpina, however, bodes well for the high performance SUV segment while hopefully keeping a more compliant ride and usable personality.

[@cwx8]

@Steven Strain it's just all M cars. They're absurd. I have an M2C. It's awful everywhere but the track. And the SUVs are no better which is totally counter to what you want in an SUV. I don't get why it's a selling point.

[@JeffVentura]

I have a ‘22 as a daily driver. Best car I’ve ever owned, and not uncomfortable at all. To be fair, the ‘22 model has a much better suspension + tuning than earlier models.

[@cwx8]

@@JeffVentura I don't believe you. BMW M just doesn't get it. I've had 12 M cars. Currently in an M2C. Would like an X3M but they are out of control stiff. You must have good roads where you live. Ours are crap in Canada. So the ride is so punishing.

[@cwx8]

@Steven Strain totally. Been there done that and no thanks. A good adjustable damper with a wide operating band is just fine.

[@JeffVentura]

@Steven Strain Eventually I think they will use air or magnetic suspensions on these, but who knows with the onslaught of EVs. I waited for the '22 model and I have no complaints. It's firm as a performance-first car should be, but not nearly as stiff as the pre-LCI models.

[@mjerome1457]

This beautiful beast will drive great for 2 yrs then after that all goes down hill….Hard pass!! I’ll take the a new Macan…way better reliability!!

[@JoeJacksonGT3]

I'm a Porsche enthusiast, but the Macan is actually garbage. It has so many issues that people can't get out of them quickly enough

[@carfan5296]

Negative - 3 years my X3///M is solid as a tank. And getting stronger plan on keeping it. S58 is the truth🤘🏾

[@A.ChristopherJohnson]

M3 has a Stick, SUV's DO NOT. Save the Manuals

[@GRIFF22]

Could you re-do in English please.

[@avery4528]

Hell of a lot cheaper than a Macan GTS. 17MPG combined is absolutely hilarious though. BMW needs to make an electric "compact SUV" with a range of 300 real miles and a good power to weight ratio and not be over 4,500Ibs. Selling something so huge should be illegal. CDL license required to drive a truck or SUV.

[@zoner__]

4600lbs = bad engineering

[@2011Savere]

BMW make nice cars but they are not reliable enough for me.

[@calvinchann1996]

I would never buy this model no matter how much I like it. For me, on normal roads, and having to stay within the law, the M40i is already enough.

[@Alex.AL_26]

looked at this and a Macan and so glad I went with the Macan as it is a far superior vehicle. This thing rides like complete garbage.

[@nathanmasseyRU40]

Having owned a recent BMW X5 and picked up my 2022 Porsche Macan S in gentian blue 10 days ago, I will say I am VERY happy with my decision to go with the new Macan S. Same price as this car, but it handles amazingly well with all the Porsche wow factors that make driving it, especially in sports plus mode, a joy! Porshce>>>BMW, IMO.

[@eitanrapp]

If performance isn’t a priority, yes

[@BUEAU]

Um yeah met two German guys twenty years ago and we talked cars. BMW worst. Overpriced nightmare. Porsche too fussy. VW halo cars are best. Golf R. Etc

[@BUEAU]

... you want to fix and smoke pot and fixxxddd ok I get it fun Stoners xo no hate gbye

[@Carrman2020]

Plenty of gullible people out there to buy this poorly built baby buggy. Entirely unacceptable ride in the UK which has already caught out a number of people. May only become a non EU market specific from the next generation (if they continue to make it).

[@rcleg4522]

agree, and looking at how much the car is bumping on this new review the new model is no better, the ride quality is terrible

[@dsp1970]

Porsche Macan"s are better riding vehicles IMO and you maybe can't get as fast an engine but it's a SUV anyway and your not gonna track it so who the heck cares how fast you get to 60mph.

[@rosebudd5]

Those back lights🤮 deal breaker . It’s stance sucks

[@MrNanah38]

A fucking waste, bmw has lost its way.