Tuning studio Manhart Performance from Wuppertal, Germany, worthily sees off the G01/F97 generation BMW X3 crossover into retirement: project presented Manhart MHX3 650 based on the top-end BMW X3 M Competition with boost to 650 hp. in-line petrol “six” S58.
This week the premiere of the new, fourth generation BMW X3 with the factory index G45 took place — the public perceived its design, to put it mildly, ambiguously; some conservative fans of the Bavarian brand, after the display of the new product, ran to dealers to buy the last copies of the previous generation crossover G01/F97 with its “more or less normal design.”
1/2 
2/2
Indeed, against the backdrop of the G45, the G01/F97 generation is perceived as an apologist for the classic style of BMW, and even its digital instrument panel with speedometer and tachometer worms seems quite acceptable against the backdrop of the sensory bacchanalia in the cabin of the G45 generation crossover.
Atelier Manhart decided to pay tribute to the outgoing X-3 and presented the most advanced project based on it — the Manhart MHX3 650. It is based on the top-end BMW X3 M Competition with a 3.0-liter in-line petrol twin-turbo six S58, delivering 510 hp in stock and 650 Nm. Specialists from Wuppertal equipped this engine with their own MHtronik control unit and installed a stainless steel sports exhaust system with HJS catalytic converters and a bypass valve, allowing the engine to “roar at the top of its lungs” in open spaces. Maximum output eventually increased to an impressive 650 hp. and 800 Nm, but the tuner does not say how this affected the dynamics: the standard BMW X3 M Competition reaches the first “hundred” in 3.8 seconds, the top speed is 285 km/h.
1/3 
3/3
The crossover's suspension is lowered by 30 mm using new H&R springs, which, according to Manhart, has a beneficial effect on handling. Behind the thin spokes of the Manhart Multispoke alloy wheels are powerful stock perforated disc brakes with red calipers, but Manhart can install even more powerful ones if the customer wishes. Pirelli P Zero tire sizes are 255/35 ZR 22 at the front and 295/30 ZR 22 at the rear.
1/8 
2/8 
4/8 
5/8 
7/8 
8/8
In addition to the new wheels, the external modifications include a new carbon fiber body kit, which includes a spoiler under the front bumper, a spoiler on the trunk lid, a diffuser in the rear bumper and door sills. The look is completed by the signature Manhart vinyl decor and four 100-millimeter carbon fiber exhaust tips.
1/5 
2/5 
3/5 
4/5 
5/5
The interior of the original crossover received new carbon fiber paddle shifters for the 8-speed automatic transmission from Manhart and carbon fiber inserts on the steering wheel, which perfectly complement the stock carbon fiber decor on the center console. At the customer's request, the studio is ready to «roll in carbon» other surfaces, as well as completely re-upholster the interior.
The price of the Manhart MHX3 650 is not indicated on the tuner's website.