With the X3 M expected to become BMW M’s best-selling model, it goes without saying that tuners will want a piece of that pie. Following Dahler’s tuning package for the F97 X3 M, we now bring you AC Schnitzer’s take on the compact high-performance luxury SUV. The German aftermarket company is giving the range-topping X3 M Competition a similar power boost as the Swiss rival.
The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six engine now produces 600 PS and 700 Nm of torque. Those are gains of 90 PS and 100 Nm over the stock X3 M Competition. AC Schnitzer does not say how this powertrain upgrade influences performance but we figure it does it in a positive way. Besides adding more muscle to the engine, the tuner also revised the suspension by means of a spring kit that lowers the SUV by approximately 20 – 25 mm front and rear.
As a result, the tuner claims the BMW X3 M enjoys maximum control and road holding. The upgraded suspension works in conjunction with standard 20-inch AC1 Light Alloy Wheels in BiColor or anthracite, shod with 255/45 R20 tires at the front and 265/45 R20 rubber at the rear. There’s also the option of 22-inch AC2 Light Alloy Wheels in BiColor or anthracite/black that come with tires sized 265/35 R22 at the front and 275/35 R22 at the rear.
Styling-wise, AC Schnitzer opted for a rather subtle body kit consisting of a front splitter, rear roof wing fitted into the stock spoiler, rear skirt protection film, and AC Schnitzer decals. The company says the aero elements are responsible for improving downforce on both axles.
Inside, AC Schnitzer kept it simple by adding subtle aluminum accessories including the pedal set with matching footrest, keyholder, paddle shifters and Black Line cover for the iDrive controller. The tuner says it is also developing a performance upgrade for the base BMW X3 M, with details to be released soon.
