BMW M Performance Parts arrive for new X3

Funny concept, the BMW M Performance Parts. As the standard BMWs and M cars get ever more capable and even more, erm, ‘striking’ to look at, so the accessories must become more daring as well. And surely, you’d think, there can’t be that much demand for an even faster M3 or even more aggressive M2. Yet the catalogue now covers more models with more parts than ever before, and we have it on good authority that the BMW accessories empire makes more money than the entire Motorrad division. So they’re not stopping. And definitely not when it comes to the latest X3. 

What you’re looking at here is a new M50 xDrive, already available with an M Sport Package and a M Sport Package Pro, kitted out with a full suite of M Performance Parts. BMW reckons the new bits ‘perfectly match the geometry and monolithic appearance of the new X3’.

This is the first time BMW’s mid-range SUV has been offered with an M Performance front splitter, here a three-part item in high gloss black for ‘a decidedly distinctive appearance’. It can be paired with an M Performance grille for a particularly mean visage, but it doesn’t stop there: the rear diffuser is available in carbon reinforced plastic or polyurethane, the mirrors can be carbon, and the new exhaust tailpipes also get M embossing. The boot badges can be made black, too. 

Then there’s the M Performance roof edge spoiler. You’ve got to admire the bravery in offering up a wing best suited to an Evo or a mad hot hatch for a family SUV; there’s nothing to stop X3 buyers (with enough money) adding a high-gloss black or body-coloured skyscraper to their new car. BMW says that ‘it not only optimises the aerodynamic properties of the new BMW X3, but also adds a particularly dynamic touch to the rear of the vehicle’. You can say that again.  

Those after the whole kit and kaboodle will be pleased to know that 22-inch wheels are available – on an X3! – as well as the side decals. Inside there’s more ‘precisely honed racing flair’ with carbon or aluminum door sills, stainless steel pedal covers, M Performance floor mats, a key case… you get the idea. It’s a lot of trinkets, seemingly, but the people keep coming back.

Prices haven’t yet been released for the latest batch of bits, so we don’t know exactly what they’ll add to the £66,980 asking price of an M50. But bear in mind that for the last X3 the carbon mirrors are almost £1,000, the decals £142 and a set of 21-inch Style 701 wheels five grand and it’s clear that the expanded offering won’t be a cheap one. Unless the badges stay at £50. But for folk who really, really want to stand out at the school gates, an X3 on 22s with that spoiler will likely achieve it. You’ll certainly know a BMW M Performance Parts car when you see one – check out this M2…