I’ve always thought there’s some form of brainwashing and cult initiation BMW drivers go through as soon as they join the Auto Bavaria family. I say this because there’s no other explanation as to how every BMW driver is religiously loyal to their Beamer. After experiencing the M40i for a few days, I am embarrassed to admit that I am contemplating which lifestyle expenses to sacrifice in order to afford that sweet Beamer. To be honest, I don’t think groceries are that important.
First of all, the BMW X3 M40i looks better now that it has been redesigned. X3 M40i’s exterior wasn’t redesigned extensively, but what BMW did made a noticeable difference. In addition to the new headlights, the grille and front air intakes are bigger and more aggressive, adding to its attractive look. There’s more to the X3 M40i than its expressive exterior. BMW also upgraded its engine and you can clearly hear it as it drives.

The X3 commands a peculiar presence and authority. It affords you the sophisticated, daring yet classy look that you cannot really get from other cars. Although domineering in its appearance, the M40i is still soft and curved seamlessly in all the right places. It may seem intimidating at first glance, the engine packs an aggressive punch, especially when the car is on Sports Plus thanks to the massive 285kW through the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. But after a few kilometres on the road, you realise that this is just a friendly giant that shouldn’t be messed with. BMW has five engine options available on this range; diesel engines include the 110kW X3 sDrive18d, the 140kW X3 xDrive20d and the 195kW xDrive30d, while the two petrol engines include the 135kW X3 sDrive20i and of course my test model.

The interior is very similar to that of any modern BMW: ergonomic, high-quality, and featuring excellent sightlines. The interior of this test vehicle has a red-and-black leather motif that adds a sense of occasion, while the red colour is not distracting on the road. A special steering wheel is available on M models, which has a nice feel to it but an extremely thick rim. This may explain the moderately warm temperature of the heated steering wheel.
With regard to the base specification, the X3 M40i comes well equipped with all the must-haves, including free standing central control display with touch function now offers a 12.3 inch function as standard across the model range. Various upgraded and modern driver assistance and safety systems, as well as an all-wheel-drive system that reacts quickly, paddle shifts and launch control as standard.. I had quite a lot of fun when I had people in the car, so I can imagine that it is a joy to spend time with your family beneath the sliding roof of the cabin due to its abundance of natural light.
Sporty seats proved comfortable for short trips, but the driver’s seat base felt too firm for longer journeys. X3 M40i is packed with features we longed for, and think you will be amazed at its features. When you compare this to an entry-level X5, the X3 M40i with high-end features will keep its price the same.

After two insane photoshoots at the famous OR Tambo International Airport, I could not keep my mouth shut about how bossy it looked in all our shots. The new metallic grey colour which BMW refers to as Skyscraper Grey makes exterior features pop as the sun sets. Making it look like an exciting UFO that every petrol head wants to play with. There are eight paint finishes in the regular range including the new Brooklyn Grey that is available in M Sports package upwards. I am comfortable with its use of fuel, especially since I was given the petrol engine. The BMW X3 M40i is the perfect spaceship for the serious yet classy executive or that determined go-getter who doesn’t want to be messed with. One needs to get their coins right before playing with a toy like that though, but be warned, once you get into the X3 M40i, there is absolutely nothing in this world that will be able to dissuade you from buying one.
Model & Pricing
- BMW X3 sDrive18d – R895,658
- BMW X3 sDrive20i – R939,798
- BMW X3 xDrive20d – R997,176
- BMW X3 sDrive18d M Sport – R935,658
- BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport – R979,798
- BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport – R1,037,176
- BMW X3 xDrive30d M Sport – R1,210,764
- BMW X3 M40i – R1,415,042
BY: SIPHO “Alphi” MKHWANAZI