BMW is giving the X3 M50 xDrive more muscle for the 2027 model year. The performance SUV's turbocharged inline-six now makes 437 horsepower, a jump BMW attributes to recalibrated engine software rather than hardware changes.
The automaker also confirmed a new Black Package for M Performance models, which now includes the X3 M50 xDrive itself. That raised fair questions about what exactly changed on the SUV and how the added output stacks up against the outgoing engine.
BMW X3 M50 xDrive Now Makes 437 Horsepower
BMW's autumn product update lists the X3 M50 xDrive's turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six at 437 horsepower. The engine pairs with 48-volt mild hybrid assistance and BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system. BMW does not cite a revised 0 to 60 mph time or top speed for this specific update.
What BMW did publish are efficiency numbers under WLTP testing: combined fuel consumption of 8.8 liters per 100 kilometers (about 27 miles per gallon) and 199 grams per kilometer of combined CO2 emissions. The brand assigns the X3 M50 xDrive a CO2 class G in that material, but it does not link these figures to Euro 7 emissions certification.
The new output also aligns the X3 M50 with BMW's recently detailed M350 xDrive, suggesting the brand is standardizing this tier of performance across its lineup.
Black Package Adds Carbon Details And Black Badges
BMW now offers a Black Package on the X3 M50 xDrive with model-specific black exterior accents and interior details announced alongside the power increase. The package remains tied to M Performance models and builds on the existing M Sport Package Pro equipment.
Across the broader range, BMW describes the Black Package as a cosmetic and interior trim option for M Performance versions of the 2 Series Coupe, 4 Series Coupe and 4 Series Convertible, and in some markets it also extends to M Performance versions of the 3 Series Sedan and Touring and the 4 Series Gran Coupe. The common thread is an extra styling tier above the standard M Sport look.
On the models that get it, the package brings red M Sport brakes, M Carbon Fibre interior trim and an M leather steering wheel with a carbon insert. BMW also lists black door-sill plates, exclusive rear model lettering and a black BMW M logo on the side panel.
On the X3 M50 xDrive, BMW pairs the new Black Package with 22-inch Polygon-style M Black wheels and high-gloss black brake calipers, plus Alcantara trim with embossed M logos on the headrests. BMW's own statement describes this treatment as giving the SUV a sharper look.
BMW X3 M50 xDrive Output Rises By 45 Horsepower
Gallery: BMW X3 M50 xDrive Black Package (2026)
BMW states the increase at 45 horsepower over the previous version of the X3 M50 xDrive's straight-six.
BMW folds these changes for the X3 into a wider autumn 2026 update for the entire X3 family. It plans to start rolling out specific tweaks for different X3 trims in December 2026, without yet listing which versions get which changes.
BMW's recent electric M3 output announcement shows the same strategy with higher outputs from revised software and supporting hardware rather than clean-sheet redesigns. The X3 M50's extra power follows that pattern, coming from calibration changes instead of a new engine block.
