There’s a hierarchy among BMW’s most capable driving
machines. Above the standard models sits the M Performance range, supplanted by
the full-on M family, and finally the Competition models. The latter has
typically been reserved for Bavaria’s most capable passenger cars, but the
latest rumors suggest it could extend to the automaker’s crossovers as well.
Most specifically, in this case, the forthcoming X3
M and X4 M, which have yet to be released. But BMWBlog and BimmerToday draw on
some recent pronouncements from the M division’s outgoing chief executive to
speculate that Competition versions of either or both could be on the way… with
as much as 500 horsepower, or even more.
Those competitors, the enthusiast publications
surmise, could include models like the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S (with 510 hp) and
the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio (503 hp). The Porsche Macan Turbo, by
comparison, offers “only” 434 hp (even with the optional Performance Package),
and the new Audi RS Q5 is expected to pack around 450. But if BMW is serious
about getting out in front of its most potent rivals, it’d likely need to offer
at least 500 hp.
Of course any Competition model would have to
include more than just a power upgrade. So we’d expect such a hardcore
performance crossover to boast a stiffer suspension and other enhancements to
distinguish it (or them) from the “standard” M models and help augment its
capabilities even further. But we may be getting ahead of ourselves at this
point. At this point we’re just looking forward to seeing the new X3 M and X4 M
arrive – with or without the Competition treatment.
