This modified BMW X3 M50 is ready to take on 2,400 km rally

It was only several months ago when BMW unveiled the all-new fourth-generation X3. Featuring a smoother look along with a more high-tech interior, the sporty crossover adopts BMW's latest design philosophy for the brand's new generation of vehicles.

While the BMW X3 is more synonymous as a crossover SUV for the road, that doesn't mean the German automaker can't modify it for rally racing. In fact, BMW will be joining the 2024 Rebelle Rallye with a customized X3 M50. That's right, an all-new X3 M50 will be taking on the annual motorsport event in the US that will see competitors take on a grueling 2,414 km rally race across the harsh deserts of California and Nevada with no GPS assistance.

As mentioned earlier, BMW will be using an X3 M50 xDrive complete with several key upgrades to take on the rigorous off-road conditions. It's equipped with custom skid plates, Falken Wildpeak A/T tires, Rotiform BLQ-C wheels, Front Runner Slimline roof rail rack kit, Wolfpack storage boxes, and Typhoon duffle bags to store equipment and gear.

It also has an XPEL Stealth satin paint protection film across all exterior surfaces, XPEL nano-ceramic window tint, and XPEL Fusion Plus ceramic coating on the wheels, glass, and exterior paint surfaces to keep the X3 looking fresh despite weather conditions. For extra nighttime visibility, BMW also put a Rigid Industries 360 Series front light pods and Chase Amber rear lighting.

Rebecca Donaghe will drive the modified X3 M50 in the Rebelle Rallye, accompanied by navigator Syndiely Wade. As previously mentioned, teams will only rely on paper maps, as using GPS is not allowed as they hunt for checkpoints through the desert landscape.

“I'm excited to return for my 8th Rebelle Rally and 2nd year with BMW, this time in the all-new BMW X3. We weren't sure what to expect last year and came away with a podium finish, so this year we know what's possible, expectations are high, and we'll be pushing even harder. It's another chance to take the Ultimate Driving Machine to the ultimate proving grounds and showcase BMW's engineering capabilities in some of the most beautiful and challenging terrain in North America. It’s especially exciting to drive a pre-production model even before the first customers have taken delivery,” said Donaghe.

The 2024 Rebelle Rallye will take place from October 11 to 18 and cover over 2,400 km of rugged desert. Will BMW's X3 M50 win the race? We'll find out in the coming days.