The 500HP mark is high but the competition is out there. BMW treats their current X5M with @570HP and it can compete with a Cayenne Turbo S. It is the same engine that was in the outgoing M5 and current M6GC. In order for this trend to continue, BMW needs to keep pushing boundaries...especially in M vehicles.
The X3M will see stiff competition at 500HP from Merc GLC AMG63S (they will build the non-coupe version), AR Stelvio QV, P Macan Turbo S and possibly the Audi RSQ5 (I think it has been confirmed at 450HP and may change closer to 500HP but will never be a better performer than a P Macan).
IMO, they will put the same engine in the X3M that the new M3/M4 will get...obviously M tuned to support each vehicles needs. The difference in weight between platforms will never mess with performance hierarchy and it would allow the X3M/X4M to be leaders in what is emerging as the highest selling segment. Having the flagship M as a segment leader will only help BMW with marketing and sales down the line.
HP isn't everything and it is very possible that BMW can build a S58 @455HP and keep pace with the pack...but why just keep pace? A 500HP S58 X3M/X4M wouldn't cost BMW any extra money, still sell extremely well and ensure BMW best in class...exactly where they should be.
Yes! We will pray for 500HP!!!
