Road test numbers: BMW X3 M50
The BMW X3 M50’s power is channelled through a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission.
The BMW X3 M50 sits as a potent offering within the popular mid-size SUV segment. To determine just how potent it is, we put a test model through our regimen – here are the impressive results!
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Beneath its completely revised exterior is a 3l, inline-six, turbo-petrol engine, generating a potent 293kW between 5 200 and 6 500r/min, along with a substantial 580N.m of torque available from 1 900 to 4 800r/min. This power is channelled through a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of outright acceleration, our tests revealed impressive figures. The sprint from standstill to 40km/h took a mere 1.38 seconds, with 60km/h arriving in 2.29 seconds and 80km/h achieved in 3.42 seconds. The benchmark 0-100km/h dash was completed in a brisk 4.61 seconds. Continuing through the gears, the X3 M50 reached 120km/h in 6.42 seconds and 140km/h in 8.28 seconds. Further analysis of its straight-line performance showed a 400m time of 12.63 seconds with a terminal speed of 174.17km/h, and the kilometre mark was reached in 23.49 seconds at 217.05km/h.
Related: Review: BMW X3 M50 xDrive
The in-gear acceleration figures further highlight the vehicle’s responsiveness for everyday driving and overtaking manoeuvres. The 40-60km/h increment was dispatched in just 0.81 seconds, followed by 1.20 seconds for 60-80km/h, 1.37 seconds for 80-100km/h, 1.71 seconds for 100-120km/h, and 2.03 seconds for the 120-140km/h range. Equally important is the vehicle’s ability to shed speed effectively. Our braking tests from 100km/h resulted in a best stopping time of 2.80 seconds and a worst of 2.94 seconds, yielding an average stopping time of 2.86 seconds and an average stopping distance of 37.08m.
Beyond performance, we also noted several key measurements. The X3 M50 has a tested mass of 1 991kg, with a weight distribution of 54% at the front and 46% at the rear. Interior dimensions include a front headroom range of 800 to 870mm, a rear headroom of 830mm, and a rear knee room of 620mm. The loading height is 765mm, and the tailgate height measures 2 065mm. The boot offers a capacity of 312l, expanding to 1 192l with the rear seats folded. The steering lock-to-lock requires 2.5 turns.
Related: Road Test Figures: Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance
Finally, our speedometer error testing revealed the following: an indicated 60km/h was an actual 57km/h, 80km/h indicated 77km/h, 100km/h indicated 96km/h, and 120km/h indicated 116km/h. With a starting price of R1 545 446, the BMW X3 M50 presents itself as a potent and well-equipped contender in its segment.
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The post Road Test Figures: BMW X3 M50 appeared first on CAR Magazine.
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