Hello fellow enthusiasts! Welcome to my build and photo log documenting the transformation of my BMW X3m40. It’s been nearly a year since I brought this machine home, and believe me, it’s been an ongoing project. I’m thrilled to announce that Phase 1 is complete, and we’ve officially entered Phase 2 of this exciting journey.
For those who don’t know me, I’m Ashton from Paul Johnson Tunes and the founder of ACX Solutions. The X3M40 became a part of our family when we welcomed our first child last year. Let’s just say my previous M235i wasn’t quite cutting it for family duties anymore! This car has since become a key development platform for both my tuning company and ACX Solutions. It’s been an absolute blast, even with a couple of unexpected driveshaft incidents during a vacation – a testament to pushing the limits!
Current Setup
Grateful for Our Sponsors
I want to extend a huge thank you to our incredible sponsors. First, Nostrum Performance, who are simply unmatched when it comes to high-performance fuel pump (HPFP) and injector upgrades for the BMW platform. And a warm welcome to our newest sponsor, CTS Turbo. My X3M40 has been instrumental as a prototype vehicle for some of their upcoming products, more details on that below.
Chasing Nines: Performance Goals
The ultimate ambition for this BMW X3M40 build is to achieve a mid-9-second quarter-mile pass. To lay the groundwork, here’s the current specification of the car:
- 2019 BMW X3M40 in Carbon Black with Oyster interior
- Factory Options: Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System, Executive Package, Live Cockpit Pro, Driving Assistance Package
Phase 1: Modifications Breakdown
Cosmetic and Interior Enhancements
- Unbranded Gloss Black Grilles for a more aggressive front end
- Unbranded Gloss Black M-style mirror caps
- Unbranded Gloss Black M-style side vents
- Fog lights with a black-out tint
- 5% tint on mirror turn signals
- Gloss black wrapped front grill boomerangs
- OEM radiator cover painted black
- OEM cross bars painted black
- Unbranded Magnetic Paddle Shifters for enhanced tactile feel
- Interior trim wrapped in gloss black
- Hardwired ESCORT MAX 3 Radar Detector
- ESCORT M2 Dashcam for added security
Performance Upgrades
- Paul Johnson Tunes (F80Paul) – Tuned for optimal performance with impressive dyno results:
- 93 Octane Tune: 415 whp, 420 ft-lb of torque
- E85 Tune: 500 whp, 550 ft-lb of torque
- Nostrum Performance B58 Gen 1 Big Bore HPFP
- Nostrum Performance B58 Gen 1 Stage 1 Injectors (+35% flow)
- CTS Turbo Downpipe
- CTS Turbo Chargepipe
- CTS Turbo Turbo Inlet
- CTS Turbo Prototype Intake Semi-closed Box
- CTS Turbo Prototype Turbo Heat Shield
- Vargas Ignition Coils for improved spark
- ACX-Solutions Oil Breather Cap PCV Delete with custom VTA lines
- Driveshaftpro Driveshaft – upgraded for increased power handling
- JXB Center Bushing (track bushing) for enhanced stability
- XHP Stage 2/3 Transmission Flash with Custom Settings
- xDelete for drive mode control
- H&R Springs for a lowered stance and improved handling
- Kidney Grill Intake Scoop
Wheels and Tires
- OEM 21-inch wheels
- Tire Setup: 275/40/21 Front, 295/35/21 Rear
- CTS Turbo 15mm Spacers (x4) for a more aggressive wheel fitment
