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We Drove Seven 2022 BMW Models in Seven Hours: Check out Our Festival of First Drives

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Daniel Rufiange
BMW still offers fun-to-drive models, but has the company strayed a bit from its roots with advances in technology?

2 — BMW X3 M Competition ($93,952)

2022 BMW X3 M Competition
2022 BMW X3 M Competition | Photo: D.Rufiange

The X3 M and X4 M SUVs get some minor tweaks for 2022. A slightly wider grille, tweaked lights, new, lighter 21-inch wheels - the changes are subtle, but the whole thing remains pleasing to the eye. An M version is on the menu, but also an M Competition variant, which is the one we tried. For 2022, torque has been boosted by 37 lb-ft to 479. Horsepower remains the same at 503, which is already pretty insane for what is still a family-oriented SUV.

However, for those who crave performance but want the practicality of an SUV, the X3 M offers the best of both worlds. Its character remains very sporty and the fact that 100 percent of the torque can be sent to the rear adds to its playfulness. Behind the wheel, you never feel like you're driving an SUV because the X3 M's athleticism defies the laws of physics. And, well, the adjustable suspension makes for a comfortable ride. It's true that California offers some beautiful roads...

See also: BMW X3 M, X4 M and their Competition Brethren Get Tweaked for 2022

2022 BMW X3 M Competition, three-quarters rear
2022 BMW X3 M Competition, three-quarters rear | Photo: D.Rufiange
2022 BMW X3 M Competition, front grille
2022 BMW X3 M Competition, front grille | Photo: D.Rufiange
2022 BMW X3 M Competition, rear light
2022 BMW X3 M Competition, rear light | Photo: D.Rufiange
Daniel Rufiange
Daniel Rufiange
Automotive expert
  • Over 17 years' experience as an automotive journalist
  • More than 75 test drives in the past year
  • Participation in over 250 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists