New BMW X3M Competition Review | New Car | Joe Achilles

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I get my hands on the brand new BMW X3M Competition thanks to BMW UK, I have this car for two weeks and plan to do a few videos with it. this is all about my initial impressions of the BMW X3M. Thanks for watching Joe Achilles.
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DISCLAIMER:
*Some footage from this video may be edited and or sped up for cinematic affects.

[@tommerriott5706]

I am 3k miles into my X3M Comp now, and I can honestly say the ride really isn’t an issue. I use it as the daily drive for school runs and work trips, and it’s a supremely comfortable and versatile all rounder with a ferocious turn of speed when poked. I was a little underwhelmed at first, but I have it set up perfectly now in M1 and it’s hilarious when you give the beans. It’s definitely softened with the miles, as the speed bumps in my village are no issue now, but where horrendous when I first got the car. It feels special (which is important for a £70k car), is equipped with everything, soaks up family life (bikes, furniture etc), it’s comfy, sounds great (only in SP), and in the right set up (MDM) is an absolute scream to drive, ticks every box for my life right now. Marmite car, but as an owner with a few miles covered now I can tell you it’s a superb all round package. In the 3 months of ownership I’m yet to see another, and gets a lot of attention from those who know, I’ve been approached a few times now with people asking about it. It makes me smile every time I drive it, so I will be keeping it for as long as it continues to do so.

[@QuamarBismil]

future classic

[@marcmateobdn]

Couldn’t agree more. Was a bit worried about the harsh ride comments but it is definitely comfortable in comfort and so brutal in Sport Plus. 10 out of 10 all rounder: design, finish, quality, versatility, refinement, high tech now with idrive7...

[@claudioagmfilho]

The problem with this engine is that the connecting rods are not forged and they come from the f90 M5 and they are not all that strong... so to me the isn’t forged connecting rods are a weak point in an engine like this...

[@darrenb7372]

Have to agree mate. Had mine for a year now and just 4.5k in. Love it more and more. It had serious road presence, ridiculous performance and loves a drink :) the interior is lovely and the car I got had many options ticked. I like the pano roof, comfort access etc. I love the mps4s but don’t like the stones in summer heat :) I have the non idrive 7 so I ended up getting car play full screen hack and I opted for mss springs at evolve (Video is on their channel!) I only got it as the school run is speed bumps and potholes galore. I ended up pulling the fuse for the exhausts flaps to stay open and she sounds perfect. 3 years to go on the PCP I may chop in before the major 30k service but for now she’s a keeper. Best car for the the money I’ve ever had. Tops the cheap s5 lease I had too.

[@darrenb7372]

Also for me the ‘issue’ with torque isn’t an issue the engine is a high red line 7k and you need to use gears or sport plus in d3 mode. In the correct gear it will go like a stabbed rat. I’ve had a 335d and the reverse happened on that no puff high up but high torque.

[@jermulla]

I was always dreaming about BMW X3M since 2007. I waited and i waited and finally BMW started making them. Big fan of X3 ♥️

[@Robwilli]

Sorry to disagree again Joe on the torque nitpicking you did. (I'm subscribed to your channel and love you nonetheless just clarifying that). Why in the hell would I be on 6th gear trying to push the car/torque? Its something that makes no sense, because it's not the proper way to drive, specially a M car. I would obviously bring down the gears to maybe 3rd or 4th gear to actually get the torque and fly away. It's like trying to make a F1 car fly from a 20mph run in 7th gear...it won't have the torque to do it, it'll take a few seconds to pick up. In my opinion you were nitpicking on something without any sense. Put the car on the correct gear whether you on a straight or a hill climb and that X3M will fly out. The X3M is way better than the M40i in every aspect and only downside if you don't have the money is the big difference in cost. But to me, it's worth it. If I couldn't afford a X3M than yes I'd be happy with the M40i but if I had the money, I wouldn't even consider the M40i and just went for the X3M.

[@JoeAchilles1]

You don't need to be sorry, sounds like you've spent lots of time in both the X3 M40i and X3M so you're totally entitled to your opinion 👌

[@numbereightyseven]

Thanks for outlining in detail the advantages of a higher seating position. I'd never have worked all that out.

[@troypower4733]

Agreed, best looking SUV! Blows away all other brands.

[@AbcD-td4ml]

Troy Power 🤣

[@aviator-kn8zq]

yes

[@realtalk7571]

Jaguar f pace and Alfa stelvio ring a bell doofus?! Haha 😊

[@youknow8by8youself]

What a review! Instant subscribe. I saw your interview with the boss of Alpina back in the days, blown away by your passion and knowledge. You know what to say and you come with new perspectives i did not heard before! Love it keep up the good work!!

[@chrflo]

Great review - so helpful. Thanks!

[@kevingreenway4317]

Great review! Love watching Joe Achilles videos, his review of the X3 M40i was the sealer for replacing an RS3 that I'd outgrown with family/kids. Was much anticipating this, but the additional £20k is crazy! Interesting points on the low down torque difference between B58/S58. It's something I appreciate every day in the B58. The proposition of the incoming M3 S58 is the next car for me I think.

[@GDH1981]

I’ve had the X3M for 6 months. Verdict: terrible ride, bad fuel consumption, great handling, ballistic engine (above 3,000rpm). I had the X3 M40i beforehand. Verdict: better ride, slightly better fuel consumption, great torque, not as quick (but still rapid), easier car to live with. Overall verdict: I’m a fan of silly cars. I love the X3M.

[@fabletty10]

Thank you for the much needed real feedback not paid by BMW LOL I love my M40i I X3!! The torque is spot on when needed and comfort wasn’t compromised it was given 😊

[@rafaelsaucedo4032]

Just got one for the family a couple of weeks ago and wow! Amazing. Same specs as the one Joe reviewed, except mine is 2021and has the red interior. Drives like a supercar but also great as a daily. Love it and recommend it

[@AaronRandolphChen]

I adore the looks of this SUV in this color - and that lowered suspension makes it look absolutely perfect! Great video - lucky you, Joe. I can only dream of having a X3M Competition.

[@MrDanioDomingues]

Love the Vid brother! Getting better and better. Pillow idea is Brilliant!! Will add in the GT2 P. 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@bef58115]

Great review. Very balanced and unbiased! Keep up the great work.

I remember back in the olden days when 500hp was a tuners dream.

[@fastlanediaries6593]

The holy grail! I had a 4x4 Sierra Cosworth and I spent my life and every penny I earned on trying to achieve that figure! Only got to 458 and it blew up eventually

[@GRfourfun]

FAST LANE DIARIES I had a SUBARU Impreza with 554bhp, that blew up too lol

[@claudioagmfilho]

The problem with this engine is that the connecting rods are not forged and they come from the f90 M5 and they are not all that strong... so to me the isn’t forged connecting rods are a weak point in an engine like this...

[@jerrykass5913]

Can we get the Avengers cushion in matching carbon fiber pattern?

[@rob5896]

By the sounds of what you are saying it needs a proper remap to improve the LET, then of course it will get even more thirsty!

[@oldmanjenkins38]

Another great review Joe!

[@chrismunsey3185]

Brilliant one Joe!!👌🏽

[@mickbeckett5136]

Joe, I watched this very same video weeks ago before picking up my new X3MC I took on board your comments and thought I’ll make up my own thoughts?? To confirm, after owning the car for over six weeks now and not much use apart from the odd supermarket run but enough time to realise your video make perfect sense. Cruise control on 60mph and you drive up a incline the gearbox is changing down, no wonder my fuel economy is sat at 18.6 mpg lol!!! Great review.

[@christianb.4385]

Great video Joe. Any chance you review the latest Alpina XD3 or XD4 next??

[@fonexchange8185]

good review as always

[@myporscheadventures]

brilliant video 👌 the ending got me 😂

[@hedoniste1129]

Very informative review Joe! Thx for your honnest feedback and LOL at the end of the vid ;-)

[@MrSuperdoop]

Can’t wait jo to see what alpina will come up with keep up the great work.

[@samcas707]

Alfa just need a solid facelift of the stelvio - adaptive LEDs, 360 camera, infotainment reskin, new centre console trim - and it’ll easily be king of fast suv’s with that chassis, dampening and engine

[@stuartbrowning3074]

Hi Joe, that’s a very honest, and factual review. Personally I found even the X3 M40i ride, was very firm, (compared to my 3 Series with m-sport suspension). The best ride I experienced, was on an X3 3.0 D, with 20 inch wheels, run flats, and with adaptive suspension, really plush, by comparison. I find BMW have a tendency, to over stiffen their performance cars, which as we all know works absolutely fine, on the smooth roads of Europe. It’s a real shame they can’t put together a UK specific, ride-package. Keep up the good work!

[@fastlanediaries6593]

Just sitting down with a cuppa (well slightly in pain). I’m week one into the transplant and I’m getting on by watching first class content. By none other than our Joe 😎 This is also a real possible change from my M4 to super fast family wagon! Here we go! Johnny

[@MotechPerformance]

Great review 👍👍

[@nicolay.t]

Thank you! Very informative 👍

[@alexsnow966]

Awesome review, love the videos you create 👌 can’t wait to see what they do with the new 6pot M engine in the new M3/4 👍

[@mthonde4950]

Hi Joe. Enjoyed the review as always, quality work. The last N/A straight six was, in fact, the N53 which was then discontinued circa 2013. Best regards.

[@avernerfilms1969]

Juts coming back to this Joe as they are knocking about for 55k thereabouts... very useful film, a reminder of some of the pitfalls. Reminds me of how good the x3 m40d is. Then again, so is the new x5 40d.

[@ians9298]

Great review Joe, summed it up nicely. Our family wagon is an X3 335d, if you want anything faster than that you really don’t want an SUV

[@phillipchandler8862]

Good informative honest review. Can't see the extra value in it for UK roads. Probably best suited to German autobahns. Those wheels look so easy to damage as well. Too much money for an X3. New "Cushion Head" T-shirt on the way?? Pity the beard too😂😂

[@rosinor6406]

I was having one of too many automotive crises wanting to upgrade my X3 M40i which does everything I need it to do. Having come from Macan turbo and cayenne turbo and finding them complete overkill for my mostly urban needs. Started to look at X3M now dipping below 50k. Strangely looking good value, now I know why. Thanks for putting me off the thought :-)

[@richardjackson5670]

Nive video! We bought the X3 M40i. It’s incredible! Definitely worth the sticker price!

[@fang75429]

I've seen a few people mention the lack of low end torque on the bimmerpost forums as well. I suspect the lower compression ratio of 9.3:1 and bigger turbos when compared to the S55 is what is making that extra lag. This might make the G80 M3 a lot of fun though with a lot of power at the top end. I'd like to see a dash video of the car being floored at 2000rpm in 2nd or 3rd to see how it responds if that would be possible Joe. Great review as usual!

[@tomguertin7713]

Great review as always Joe. I’m gona be looking at the M40i next year…

[@dodo19923]

A good tune, and downsizing the wheels to 265/45r20 front and 275/45r20 rear from the standard 21's makes all the difference. It clears up some of the low down engine issues and mitigates the stiff springs so it doesn't beat you up over every bump.

[@04tsxpower]

It doesn’t

[@michaelmulwa5267]

Astonishing interior 🤩

[@utb8536]

one of the best reviewers in terms of what i expect from a review! well done,keep going!

[@MikeGrattan]

Those seats look great...I wonder if I could swap them into my M40i?

[@JohnNick72]

Too bad about the roads in your country. I’m in the US and this SAV is perfect for us. Swapped from a ‘17 F80 Comp to this 2 months ago and I have absolutely no regrets. The X3M Comp is fantastic!

[@JoeAchilles1]

Well you must have silky smooth roads around you 👌

[@cuthevayo5017]

Great review Joe👍👍👌apart from the low down torque issue..me thinks it's a great SAV all-rounder 😎😎

[@g9icy]

Great video Joe. This has made me reconsider my plan of waiting for the next m3/m4 a bit. I have the opportunity to swap my 435d for a 440i, would you say wait for next gen M’s or save a lot of money and get a 440i, or just stick with the 435d?

[@roadreg1820]

I think the lack of ‘low-down torque’ could be due to the weight of the thing, like you said. Shame the exhaust is so tame compared to the US version, but actually.. it’s kinda refreshing to be able to hear a clean exhaust note without burbles interrupting it on the upshift/overrun.

[@hayyau]

Great vid! How about a cheeky X3 m40d review?

[@hallphil]

Interesting review; great summary.. two words - UK roads!

[@David-ju5ci]

Good review Joe you should test the BMW 40d

[@scottfromengland2303]

Great video Joe, well presented again mate 👍🏻 nice looking car, still not sure about the SUV after coming away from 1 to now the M140i, cornering would be interesting, would like to drive 1 & see for myself some day with this vehicle, can you imagine taking this on a tour 🤔

[@zemekiel]

Looking good with the cushion, I think this might catch on! So this or the Stelvio QF? :)

[@alanwayte1688]

Nice to see an honest review when supplied with a press car...so often the reviewer is thinking more about not upsetting the brand....the ride quality issues are ridiculous, I have current M5 2018 and last week took the M5 Competition out for a test drive....living in the countryside I have a three mile drive to an A road...my two young daughters were green and wanted to stop to throw up...standard M5 in comfort is already firm enough......why could BMW U.K. and also Italy Belgium France were the B roads are not great just insist on a proper comfort setting....I would certainly be in the market for this car if it had the ability to waft..

[@wadebeaumont5264]

Great review Joe. 20 years ago no one would believe this type of suv would exist. Performance is ridiculous. Not sure why you would buy one but a great car.

[@harrisonkay575]

Drove one yesterday in Australia, loved it didn’t find the ride to harsh. On our roads it was fine. Only thing I didn’t like was when it short shifted up the gears and when it did went to accelerate it literally didn’t go I had to shift 2 gears down for it to move. Only thing I didn’t like. I think it’s a bit to pricey for what it is, considering for 11k more you can get an X7 M50D with a lot of space and decent performance seems like a better buy.

[@nigels6786]

Does the sunroof have the ambient lights like the X5?

[@bengoldstraw1904]

Great review Joe, I’m seriously considering this as my next car. (Or the X4M, I know it’s not to everyone’s taste) but x2 children now so my M6 is becoming a lot less practical.

[@MrTigershark888]

Hey Joe. I enjoy your vids. Please review the new 2020 M40i. Im considering one and I put a lot of trust in your reviews.

[@jrcannon8038]

TigRshark He reviewed the 2018 M40i. Since overall there were relatively minor changes from 2018 to 2020, he may not review the 2020.

[@murraygordon]

Top review fella. Your membership card for the B57 30d fan club is in the post - 20Nm more torque than that in the X3 as well (620Nm v 600Nm in the S58). Does sound like the S58 engine will be off the scale fun if they give the UK a manual G80 M3 though, the way you describe its torque and power curve.

[@Verknechter]

Honestly i felt the same about the S55 in the M2C and M4C when i drove it after my M140i. Sure they rev out nicer and may have more power up top. But the torque the B58 has at very low revs (

[@365mad]

I like the idea of no pops and bangs. Thank you Joe👍

[@erangurung]

Good job joe

[@Tony-ob2ts]

Joe- how do you find the seats in the X3 M. Do you feel they are a bit restrictive on your thighs?

[@TheFuxxoWorksGarage]

joe, how do you think suspension compares to M340i G20? is it at least close in comfort, or is it more harsh?

[@ShogunsDojo]

I think the S58 will bring the rain 🌧⚡️ I hope they make the engine bay look as nice as the S55 in next year’s m3 though

[@audiconvertible]

Just stepped into a X3M Competition from my 718 Cayman today. Obviously I'm used to the ride, but it feels perfectly okay to me. I think SUV owners will look for a car that offers best of both worlds in terms of sport and comfort, naturally, but suspect the M division were just out to make a full on M car. Can't criticise them for that.

[@DeltaDubai03]

I don't know what I enjoyed the most; the car, the review itself or the Avengers cushion. Maybe the combination of all of the above is what got me. Once again, a well-done review!

[@executive_hiring]

Question, given I follow on youtube and value your technical knowledge on cars: X3 M competition: avoid or not given stiff ride? I owned the G05 40i x5 on sport suspension (not air ride - 22” wheels) and actually thought it was a bit soft in the corners. Thanks for the advice!

[@nortech2415]

Did you pull a wheel lift at 21:30?

[@TheMBCreative]

The part with the cushion killed me :P worthy option!

[@harryarteza3435]

How does the ride compare the the M2 comp? Thanks Joe!

[@nlocnil3602]

I know we are in the new generation but if you want to do a TBT show. I'd really like to know what you think of the F30 340 with M Performance Power & Sound Kit.

[@rsoulzz4230]

@21:29 it’s that stiff it’s cocking up a front wheel as u threw it round that bend 😳

[@pinkpotato1]

Please try and drive a BMW X5M F85.... Its got the torque and the smooth ride in comfort, then an absolute animal when you go mad in it

[@bekabeka71]

Fastest factory suv too

[@crispcarguru303]

Do you think and X3 M with non sport seats is a deal breaker. Other options, Macan S or SQ5

[@mrgasman9632]

3 years later and still makes a better noise than most cars today

[@delboy2596]

What a great looking SUV. Much nicer than other BMW's offerings.

[@ThisIsMTH]

Great video as always, Joe. Interesting point regarding the torque curve in this engine - I wonder if it’s been reduced low down in the range for emissions reasons. And in a way, it’s not surprising it changed down to 6th from 8th on an incline, 8th is an over ride cruise gear.

[@bunnydog8436]

No, Joe is correct, the B58 will pull like a train in 8th. It does not need to kickdown to do it.

[@ThisIsMTH]

Bunny Dog I know; I’ve got one. My point was around whether 8th has been made an over ride gear in the X3M CP to try and eek out more economy given that it’s much heavier than an M140i.

[@Bestwick1983]

Switch the ignition on without starting the car, put it in Eco Pro, press the TC button, blip the throttle. See if it pops and bangs this way.

[@OverTheRoadRowson]

I can vouch these things are rapid, I have a 400bhp focus RS MK2 and I was FLAT out accelerating and he was pinned to my rear bumper I moved over and he passed me at a steady pull putting a couple of car lengths on me. I was wondering if it was tuned as my car is about 650kgs lighter 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@antonoat]

Great review Joe, very capable and extremely good looking, yes I'm talking about the car, lol. Shame a car with this power can feel weak in the low and midrange, a mismatch maybe? @21.29 we are in trike mode, really surprising .

[@moiggc]

What's the point of showing us what the X3 M is like on a bumpy road in sport + mode? Obviously, an owner would select comfort, that would have been more relevant., But, as always, great review!

[@joshm2405]

Giom Mouton I think in general it’s just too stiff for uk roads as it appears.

[@juandavidescobar6964]

Exactly! How stupid? Same as "testing" the low down torque. Why leave it manual in 6th, when the thing can downshift to 4th in a second, and get up to speed in a fraction of a second?

[@liecheatsteal123]

@@juandavidescobar6964 cuz he’s not a good reviewer. Very bias Overrated RBR, Matt watson even CERTIDRIVERS are less monotone and an easier watch

[@danielohio9462]

Looks great to me

[@texasjohn165]

Why the Avengers pillow? Is the seat uncomfortable?

[@genghiscam3250]

Sorry, late to the video. Joe, I just picked up my own X3 M Competition (black) - do you know any content creators who are vlogging their modifications? I'm think of lowering springs and potentially a piggyback tune - but don't know yet. Thanks!

[@smeagol80]

I just watched your review of Stelvio QV and then I thought to see this one and you made me confused really... when talking about the best looking car and the best chassis...

[@TeacherToolkitDemo]

The 3 litre diesel bmw pick up way better at lower revs. Crazy how you describe the lack of torque at the bottom of the rev range. Great informative video Joe.

[@snffz3492]

It's an ///M engine, that's how it's supposed to feel/work. The early S55 M3/4-s suffered from the opposite of this car, too much torque down low and they were all over the place on the road. I'm sure S58 will go so well with the next gens M3/4-s and fix that. It's just unfortunate that it doesn't work well with a heavy car like X3 when daily driven. I'm sure it's a blast when driven hard tho, that's what ///M engines are made for. You buy an ///M for that reason at the end of the day, if u want a better daily driver go 40i route. And it sounds pretty good, way better cockpit sound than M3/4-s. After market will fix the outside loudness. Great vid Joe, very informative :).

[@carboydorifutoparty3976]

@@snffz3492 they are supposed to go in the next gen M3/M4s anyway.

[@azzwhupin]

is the car lower @ the thumbnail ?

[@henrymahoney7072]

I looove this car

[@ogbrmusic]

First off turbo lag is always a factor. Mix that with the fact that it's an SAV (Not suv lol) you understand the low rpm issues it deals with handley. Also go all the way to the original and suspension has always been stiff. Its fine unless a rear stut goes out then bring the pepto! Either you buy one you understand why it has always been more capable than the... If you'll excuse the phun, Competition.😀

[@claudioagmfilho]

🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷👏🏻, The good thing about the S58 engine is that the connecting rods are forged, they do not come from the f90 M5C, and they are pretty durable. So to me this is a good point, they are not a weak point on the S58 engines. There are stronger connecting rods out there tho, like the arrow ones etc, but that's if you're pushing over a 1000whp.

[@paula-jj5gd]

if i want my ecu unlocked they should unlock it its my car my choice ?

[@jonne3637]

I was at the BMW dealer today. should I buy a brand new x3m comp or get a 69 plate one?

[@jedsands1051]

I ordered a Red one expect early October , must remember to order some cushions lol

[@JoeAchilles1]

😂👌

[@AbcD-td4ml]

JED SANDS see you at the bingo🤣 you wil get a 60 plus discount🥳🥳

[@WillsWheels]

So, you would rather have the Stelvio QV?

[@iantaf5559]

Great review. Surprised at the lack of torque blow 2000 revs, Joe. And as for that thing with the cushion....😆

[@kyrix1st]

ian taf It’s probably because compression ratio is significantly lower than S55, which affects torque off boost.

[@petripaavola819]

Excellent video Joe! I watched this because I was very interested how S58 performs and you pretty much answered all of my questions. It will be interesting to see how it suits upcoming M3/M4. I'm afraid the lack of torque low down will make M3/M4 less usable than current generation in which S55 produces quite bit torque from 2000rpm onwards. Based on BMW's own material it seems that S58 is able to do so 500rpm later and what I can hear from your review it souns like it is more like 1000rpm... The B58 on other hand is masterpiece it produces torque everywhere and revs out nicely without dropping off too early. Just perfect in M140i, 340i and 440i (at least with MPPSK). Also interested to feel the difference what the B58TU will provide in form of M340i...

[@petripaavola819]

Perhaps the M3/M4 will get S58TU with electric turbocharger, which will help with low rev range torque...

[@QuamarBismil]

coolest suv

[@RB-xv4si]

You mentioned how the carbon fiber highlights the not so great plastic trim throughout the dash. My F80 has the full merino leather option, which has all the parts that are normally plastic on the dash, upholstered in leather. So that’s not an issue. Is there not some similar option offered on the new X3 M?

[@JoeAchilles1]

Yes the extended leather is nice, but the surround near the gear stick/selector still looks out of place on the F80's and nice spec ALPINAS. There isn't that option on the X3M here in the UK, doubt there will be on the new M3/4 either due to all the WLTP bullshit testing

[@NFiltr8Red]

I wish they would put some beautiful 2 or 3 piece wheels like the Niche Citrine, buy the way looks very BMW ish.

[@m2kev789]

Hi Joe - great Video as usual - however, I still cant quite get my head round a ‘proper’ M SUV / Lorry. Seems to me that it’s just another way of extracting more money from buyers - I’ll be sticking with my M cars of the ‘normal’ genre I’m afraid. 😀👍

[@nnn-pr3vr]

Why not idrive OS 7?