BMW’s vehicles have long been known for their luxury and performance, but the automaker’s more recent additions to its lineup have taken things to a new level. An example of this is the X3 M, which takes the already-lively crossover into the stratosphere with a red-hot powertrain and sports car handling. The 2021 model year brings new standard features and updated tech features to the hot crossover, including the addition of Android Auto (alongside previously-available Apple CarPlay) to the infotainment system, a WiFi hotspot, and a one-year subscription to SiriusXM radio with 360L. New goodies aside, just one powertrain is available for the X3 M, but it’s a stout one that can be made even stouter with an available Performance Package. The 3.0-liter inline-six makes 473 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. Performance Package-equipped vehicles will see 503 hp from that powertrain and also get a sport exhaust system to let it sing with a throaty growl. All X3 M models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD), but the drive system’s power delivery makes it special. It’s able to send up to 100 percent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels when needed, making the crossover an enthusiast’s delight. The run from 0-60 mph takes just over three seconds, while the quarter-mile takes around 11.5 seconds. Being a BMW, the X3 M also has to hold up its end of the bargain in the luxury department. The crossover’s front seats are heavily bolstered, and the cabin features a variety of high-end materials and finishes. That’s on top of a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, heated front seats, leather upholstery, and ambient interior lighting. Buyers can strap more luxe onto the X3 M in the form of a panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Infotainment duties are handled by a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen with the ability to give inputs via a rotary dial in the center console. A 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, navigation, and various USB inputs are also standard. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the standard 2020 BMW X3 with a “Top Safety Pick+” designation, but 2021’s model didn’t pick up the same honors. In fact, only one BMW—the 3 Series sedan—took home a “Top Safety Pick” award for 2021. Even so, the X3 M gets a few standard advanced driver assists, which include blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alerts, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control. The 2021 BMW X3 M is on sale now with an MSRP that starts at $70,895, which includes a $995 destination charge. Adding the Competition Package bumps the price by $7,000, and the X3 M can be further upgraded with a $1,700 Driver Assistance Plus Package or a $3,900 Executive Package.