Last updated August 4, 2026
The BMW X3 M lineup starts with the base X3 M, grouped here as the Performance trim level. It is the full M version of the X3, combining sports-sedan speed and handling with five seats, useful cargo space, and all-wheel drive. The Competition, grouped as High Performance, is the sharper step-up, with more power, firmer handling hardware, a sport exhaust, and more focused seats.
The Performance trim level, represented by the base X3 M, is the everyday high-performance model that pairs serious M handling with the space and all-weather traction of an SUV.
Best for: Drivers who want sports-sedan pace and sharp responses without giving up rear-seat room, cargo space, or AWD.
Highlights
The High Performance trim level, represented by the Competition, is the more aggressive X3 M with extra power, more focused handling hardware, and a sportier cabin.
Best for: Drivers who want the most focused factory version of the X3 M while keeping its passenger and cargo usefulness.
Highlights
Compared with Performance, the Competition raises output from 473 to 503 hp and adds larger anti-roll bars, an M Sport exhaust, and more supportive M Sport seats trimmed in extended Merino leather.
2 in stock| Feature | Performance | High Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Includes | base9 in stock | Competition2 in stock |
| Member trim | base X3 M | Competition |
| Horsepower | 473 hp | 503 hp |
| Suspension focus | Adaptive M suspension | Adaptive M suspension with larger anti-roll bars |
| Exhaust | Standard performance setup | M Sport exhaust |
| Front seats | Heated sport seats | M Sport seats |
| Leather upholstery | Vernasca leather | Extended Merino leather |
Base still means the full-performance X3 M, not a regular X3 with M styling. Across the first generation, it has a 473-hp twin-turbo six, rear-biased all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and M brakes.
On used Competition models, the main step up is a 503-hp engine tune instead of 473 hp. Competition versions also add a sport exhaust, larger body-control bars, more supportive M Sport seats, and extended Merino leather.
No. The Competition has meaningful performance changes, including 503 hp, a sport exhaust, and larger bars that help resist body lean. Its M Sport seats and extended Merino leather also give the cabin a more focused character.
Yes, both use a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, but the factory tuning differs. The Base makes 473 hp, while used examples carrying the Competition name make 503 hp.
Both use BMW's M all-wheel-drive system. It is tuned to send more power toward the rear for a sportier feel, while an active rear differential helps distribute power between the rear wheels.
The Base is the more straightforward daily-driver pick. It already has 473 hp, all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, strong M brakes, heated leather sport seats, and a useful five-seat SUV body.
The Competition is the more focused choice among used examples that carry that trim name. Its 503-hp tune, sport exhaust, larger body-control bars, and more supportive seats push it further toward track-style driving.
Yes. The Base has a 473-hp twin-turbo six, an eight-speed automatic, rear-biased all-wheel drive, an active rear differential, adaptive M suspension, and M compound brakes.
On newer Base models, the main setup includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Harman Kardon audio is also included.
Base models use heated sport seats trimmed in Vernasca leather. Competition models are distinguished by more supportive M Sport seats and extended Merino leather, giving them a more performance-focused cabin.
No. The Competition keeps the X3 M's compact SUV body, passenger space, and cargo usefulness. Its changes center on extra engine output, sharper suspension hardware, a sport exhaust, and more supportive seats.