BMW will unleash its most powerful diesel model ever when a revised X3 range goes on sale in September.

The X3 3.0sd is powered by a development of the twin-turbo 3.0-litre diesel currently found in the 535d, although in the X3 it offers 286bhp and 428lb-ft of torque – an extra 14bhp and 15lb-ft respectively.

The new model joins the existing 2.0 and 3.0-litre turbodiesels and two straight-six petrol engines – a 2.5-litre with 218bhp and a 272bhp 3.0-litre.

Revisions to BMW’s mid-size SUV challenger include a minor facelift inside and out and the adoption of new technology such as DSC+, the firm’s traction and stability control system which is offered for the first time on the X3. Prices for the new model will be announced later this year.