Since BMW evidently decided to make its latest 3-Series SUV lineup all about the electric iX3, AC Schnitzer sought balance in offering a powerful and agile ICE alternative.
Working with a standard M50 X3, the German tuner persuaded its 3.0-liter inline-six engine to output 450 PS (444 hp / 331 kW) instead of 398 PS (393 hp / 293 kW). The peak torque simultaneously went from 580 to 650 Nm (from 428 to 479 lb-ft, respectively). Confident of its work, the company puts a warranty valid for up to 5 years on the upgrade.
To have something to show for all the work under the hood, owners are invited to opt for a front splitter, side winglets, sill extensions and a roof spoiler. The show car also boasts a Grey Diamond Effect Metallic finish, which sounds like it could be a wrap.
A peek inside the arches reveals 22-inch AC5 wheels perfectly centered in their wells thanks to a 20mm (0.8”) widening of the track and the same reduction in ride height. The company suggests that the M50 X3 rivals some pureblood M cars in terms of performance and handling, although the dynamic gains remain to be measured.
All components are available for ordering.
