X3 M

Make
BMW
Segment
SUV

With 503 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque on tap, the BMW X3 M Competition definitely isn't underpowered. But that hasn't stopped AC Schnitzer from extracting more power from the Bavarian beast. After recently boosting the BMW Z4, the German tuner has increased the X3 M Competition's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six to 600 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.

Compared to the stock X3 Competition, that's a gain of 87 horsepower and 74 lb-ft. AC Schnitzer is also preparing a tuning kit for the regular X3 M, which produces 473 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque in stock form.

The tuner hasn't said how these modifications affect the performance but it's probably safe to assume the modified SUV is faster than the standard X3 M Competition, which can accelerate from 0-62 mph in four seconds flat and max out at 177 mph when equipped with the M Driver's Package.

Thanks to a new spring kit, AC Schnitzer BMW X3 M rides 0.8 - one inch lower to the ground at the front and rear. To complement the performance upgrade, the tuner has also fitted a new front splitter, a rear roof wing fitted into the rear roof spoiler, and rear skirt protection film to improve downforce on the front and rear axle.

Special AC Schnitzer badging will tell everyone this is no ordinary BMW X3 M Competition. A set of standard 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels in BiColor or anthracite wrapped in 255/45 R20 tires at the front and 265/45 R20 tires at the rear round off the exterior changes. The wheels can also be upgraded to a 22-inch set.

As for the interior, AC Schnitzer has upgraded the cabin with a slew of high-quality, easy-to-grip aluminum accessories including a pedal set with matching footrest, a keyholder, aluminum Cover Black Line for the iDrive controller, and an aluminum shift paddle set. Pricing details for the tuning kit haven't been announced, but the standard BMW X3 M Competition starts at $76,900.