BMW X3 and X4 M revealed with up to 375kW

The BMW X3 M and X4 M have been officially revealed a week after the first mid-size SUVs from BMW M were teased on video.

And the big news is that both the BMW X3 M and X4 M, which will make their public debuts at the Geneva motor show next month, will be available in Competition form capable of reaching 100km/h in just 4.1 seconds, says BMW.

This and a 285km/h top speed (with optional M Driver’s Package) is thanks to the fitment of a newly developed version of BMW’s famed 3.0-litre turbo six, which makes its debut in the Bavarian brand’s direct rivals for the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Q and Porsche Macan Turbo.

Providing a likely look at the next BMW M3 and M4 outputs, in Competition guise the X3 and X4 Ms develop a startling 375kW of power at 6250rpm and a beefy 600Nm of torque over a broad 2600-5950rpm.

Even in standard form, the BMW X3 M and X4 M are more powerful than expected, with 353kW available at the same revs and the same 600Nm on tap over a slightly narrower rev range (2600-5600rpm). Engine cut-out is no less than 7200rpm.

The ‘garden variety’ M models are just 0.1sec slower to 100km/h (4.2sec), have a 5km/h lower top speed (280km/h) and average the same 10.5L/100km fuel consumption (10.6L/100km for the X4).

All models are fitted with a standard eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission with three shift modes, the rear-biased M xDrive all-wheel drive system from the M5 and a rear Active M Differential.

Key upgrades to the BMW inline six, which features two mono-scroll turbos, include two petrol particulate filters, four catalytic converters, a new forged crankshaft and redesigned cooling and oil supply systems.

As witnessed in last week’s teaser video, the newest BMW M models also bring upgraded aerodynamics, suspension and brakes.

All models score specific, Nurburgring-tuned Adaptive M Suspension and M Compound brakes, the latter with rotor sizes up to 390mm.

And while the standard BMW X3 and X4 M ride on 20-inch alloy wheels, the Competition models upgrade to 21s – 9.5-inch up front with 255/40 tyres and 10-inch with 265/40 tyres at rear.

From August 2019, BMW says its will offer the option of a carbon fibre reinforced (CFRP) front strut tower brace, further improving body rigidity and therefore handling.

Cosmetically, there’s a full M body kit, which will become available in CFRP, M-specific instruments and steering wheel (with two M Drive buttons), carbon-fibre interior trim strips and four exhaust outlets.

Other standard equipment will include LED headlights and head-up display with M-specific display, while M Sport seats with extended Merino leather (with Alcantara for the Competition models) will be optional in Europe.

Expect the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M on sale in Australia later this year, priced around the same as the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S wagon ($165,000) and ‘Coupe’ ($172,000) respectively.