BMW’s big news for this week, no, make that this year, is the reveal of the gas-powered Neue Klasse 3-Series. With all the buzz around the eighth-generation sports sedan we almost missed some other important changes that bring major horsepower gains to some very different, but crucial BMW models.Top of that news list as far as enthusiasts are concerned is the confirmation that the combustion X3 M50’s engine has been upgraded to match the spec of the new M350 xDrive. Instead of 393 hp (398 PS), the M50’s 3.0-liter inline six now generates 437 hp (443 PS). Related: New X5 Gets A Carbon Fiber Makeover From BMW M Performance Parts There’s no word on what kind of effect that might have on performance, but for reference the pre-upgrade X3 M50 claimed a 4.6-second zero to 62 mph (100 kmh) time, and the lighter M350 xDrive sedan promises to get there in 4.1 seconds. We’re still waiting for BMW to roll out a true X3 M in this generation of SUV, but with almost as much power as an E92 M3, the M Performance X3 M50 is certainly going to do a solid job of keeping the real M’s seat warm. More Power, Less Range For iX3Another X3 benefitting from a power uptick is the electric iX3. There are no changes to the 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) output of the iX3 50 launch model, or to the 316 hp (235 kW / 320 PS) single-motor iX3 40 that joined the lineup in the spring. But now you can get the 40 in dual-motor trim, and that brings more than simply xDrive all-wheel drive traction. The iX3 40 xDrive gains 56 hp over the rear-drive SUV for a 369 hp (275 kW/ 374 PS) total. It’s the same setup BMW revealed yesterday in the new i3 40 xDrive sedan, and despite adding weight, ought to improve on the single-motor iX3’s 5.9-second zero to 62 mph sprint time. You’ll pay more for the privilege, of course, and not just when you sign the paperwork at the dealership before taking the keys. BMW says the xDrive can cover 320-386 miles (515-621 km) on the European WLTP cycle before asking for a charging station. That’s down from a maximum of 395 miles (636 km) from the single-motor version that relies on the same 82.6 kWh battery. The top-dog iX3 50 has a much larger, and more expensive 108.7 kWh pack, and can cover up to 500 miles (805 km). It also charges at 400 kW, versus a less impressive, but still speedy, 300 kW for the 40-badged models. Optional Lighter, Stronger Wheels For M5 Other fall updates announced this week include a gorgeous set of 20- and 21-inch wheels for the M5 sedan and Touring. Available from BMW’s M Performance range, they’re constructed using a new high-pressure casting process the brand claims is an automotive first. Related: BMW’s New 3D Maps Show You What The Car Sees While It Drives The aluminum is cast under vacuum, from the outside in, the process taking just 0.05 seconds. It results in wheels that are stronger and up to 20 percent lighter, but it also opens the door to some crazy designs, because the process could theoretically allow up to 70 bladed spokes. Good luck cleaning one of those rims. And finally, BMW has a new Black Package for M Performance versions of the 2-Series, 4-Series and 4-Series convertible. You have to order the M Sport package Pro to unlock the Black Package, which adds details like M Carbon Fibre interior trim, black door sill strips and black badges. BMW
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