Updates Coming for X3 M50As we head towards the final months of 2026, BMW has announced a few updates for the X3, specifically the punchy M50 model. This isn't a facelift or LCI in BMW-speak just yet, but the tweaks should interest those looking for a hot compact crossover.Due later this year, the range-topping X3 will get a Black Package. Of course, some might not really get excited about that, but the other highlight is even more power from the 3.0-liter straight-six. Great news, then, and BMW has a couple more updates for the rest of the lineup, at least for Europe.BMWBridging the GapIt's been a couple of years since BMW launched the fourth-generation X3, and it still remains the brand's top-selling model worldwide. While its design has split opinions, the sales it's been raking in show it was a good move to go bolder. That said, one model is still missing: the true X3 M version.While we don't know what BMW has in store, or whether Alpina will handle it, the M50 has done a decent job as the bridge between the standard and full-M model. Its boosted 3.0-liter inline-six makes 393 hp and 428 lb-ft, so it's still not slow.However, the 2027 model will get even more horses under the hood. By the end of this year, that same engine will get a 44 hp bump, raising output to 437 hp while retaining 428 lb-ft of torque. That means it makes exactly the same power as the M350. It's not like the 2026 X3 M50 was tepid, but more power is always welcome.BMWNo X3 M, but Still RapidWhile 437 hp is a welcome boost, it's still no X3 M. For comparison, the last X3 M made 473 hp and 457 lb-ft, while the Competition version dished out 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft. The 2027 X3 M50 is still a little bit behind, but still potent nonetheless.BMW says it can get from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.4 seconds, which is a fairly conservative estimate. The 393 hp version did the same task in 4.6 seconds, and real-world testing saw it closer to four seconds flat. The extra 44 hp means it could possibly hit 60 mph in the upper three-second range.BMWOther HighlightsCircling back to the Black Package, it's a new option exclusive to the X3 M50. The highlight here would be the 22-inch wheels that wouldn't look out of place in an M5. There's also black badges with silver outlines, along with gloss black brake calipers. Part of the package is Alcantara/Veganza combination interior upholstery, as well as carbon-effect trims inside.As for the rest of the range, the bit in front of the infotainment screen will be trimmed in PVC Softskin surface, while ambient lighting has been expanded to the door handles and the area surrounding the storage bin. BMW is quite proud of the fact that the 2027 X3 will have a new glove box opener and stainless-steel edge guards in the cargo area, and that the 2.0-liter in the X3 20 is now Euro 7 compliant.BMWBMW
