[sinbad4]

I wrecked my X3 last spring. Finally picked up new 2020 X3 M40i. I had salvaged my K&N Air Filter from totaled car (only used 3 months). I went to install K&N and found it didn't fit! It's slightly too large - both longer, wider and deeper!

I still have factory filter from 2019 X3 M40i.

Enclosing some pics comparing 2019 vs 2020 vs K&N. I will be looking for a solution. I have used K&N for years. I prefer the oil soaked cloth to the dry paper. I also prefer the drop in filters as they retain the cold air intake system.

Anyone have certain knowledge on a K&N air filter that fits?

[j1980mac]

You'll likely be looking at around at least 6-9 months from now.

I got my 2018 X3 M40i in May of 18, but couldn't get the K&N until late in the same year.

[suby01]

Ah crap. Thanks for pointing that out. I was just about to start shopping for one.
Would the Supra replacement filter work?

[suby01]

Seem like its a possibility I think.

https://www.knfilters.com/air-filter...ent-air-filter

[sinbad4]

Originally Posted by suby01

Seem like its a possibility I think.

https://www.knfilters.com/air-filter...ent-air-filter

Don't think so.. has same dimensions as K&N for 2018/19 X3 M40i. Comparing your link to link for 2018/19 BMW X3 M40i K&N
https://www.knfilters.com/air-filter...ent-air-filter

From your link:

• Height 1.625 in (41 mm)
• Outside Length 10.688 in (271 mm)
• Outside Width 9.156 in (233 mm)

From link to 2018/19 X3 M40i

• Height 1.125 in (29 mm)
• Outside Length 10.688 in (271 mm)
• Outside Width 8.625 in (219 mm)

You can see, from your link is actually wider than 2018/19 X3 M40i... so definitely will not work.

I think j1980mac is correct, we'll be stuck waiting some months.

[lo_cheng]

really don't know what's the point of change the size of filter just a bit like this. wouldn't it easier for everyone that all G01 use same filter??

[suby01]

Originally Posted by lo_cheng

really don't know what's the point of change the size of filter just a bit like this. wouldn't it easier for everyone that all G01 use same filter??

Well the car is a G01 but the 2020 have a completely new engine so it only makes sense that the engine components may be different.

[Alias1431]

Originally Posted by suby01

Well the car is a G01 but the 2020 have a completely new engine so it only makes sense that the engine components may be different.

No, it's a technical update of the same engine.

[lo_cheng]

Originally Posted by suby01

Well the car is a G01 but the 2020 have a completely new engine so it only makes sense that the engine components may be different.

but for that small differ, any differ in airflow or space use?? if not, why change it just for a bit

[suby01]

^^ point is that the air filter is different. Thanks OP for sharing this. Im just now sitting and waiting on companies that will actually produce something for our cars.

[gugin]

I don't mean to start a war here, but is there any scientific evidence that a non-OEM filter actually makes a difference for the M40i? I have heard a lot of general claims (including manufacturer claims), but have not seen any compelling evidence that the filter makes a difference on the M40i. I would be very much interested to learn because if it makes a difference, I'd change the filter on mine.

[sinbad4]

Originally Posted by gugin

I don't mean to start a war here, but is there any scientific evidence that a non-OEM filter actually makes a difference for the M40i? I have heard a lot of general claims (including manufacturer claims), but have not seen any compelling evidence that the filter makes a difference on the M40i. I would be very much interested to learn because if it makes a difference, I'd change the filter on mine.

I believe so. I've used them for years. Just look at Pic on in OP. A huge chunk of paper vs thin layer of oil soaked cloth. The oil soaked cloth, in theory, induces particles to stick to it, rather than getting caught in a mess of paper filaments. Historically, I've heard 5-8HP increase, but those were 150-250 HP cars.

Check out Engineering Explained:

He does a reasonable test. His testing results, K&N 2.5% to 3.5% faster. Which, in the M40i, translates to something like 10-15HP at the crank.

Bottom line, you will be hard pressed to notice a 3% power bump. Really, it works nice with other small items. Updated down pipe, intake, exhaust. All together, it is noticeable. In the case of BMW M (and M40i cousins), they do pretty good job with intake and exhaust. I don't know how much return you'd get replacing them. I know some are enjoying new DP - not sure how much of that is performance and how much is nice sound.

[suby01]

OP have you found any possible options for your 2020?

[sinbad4]

Originally Posted by suby01

OP have you found any possible options for your 2020?

Not yet. :-(


Was hoping someone finds one soon. I am guessing we'll have to wait a few more months.

[sinbad4]

Found one that fits! See: https://x3.xbimmers.com/forums/showt...3#post25679543

[garz747]

I guess no one here feels that major manufacturers would use oiled gauze filters to gain "free" horsepower,torque and miles per gallon if they worked ?

[sinbad4]

Originally Posted by garz747

I guess no one here feels that major manufacturers would use oiled gauze filters to gain "free" horsepower,torque and miles per gallon if they worked ?

They cost more.

How much do you think it would cost them to make exhaust 1/2 bigger? Injectors a little bigger, etc, etc. Few bucks here, few bucks there.. x a million.

Plus, specifically for air filters; they have to engineer for worst possible conditions. Off-road, lots of dust environments. I drive in the city and highway and average 10 miles dirt road a year. I've used cloth, oil screen K&N since the early 90's. I do most of my own engine, brakes, maintenance - I have yet to see any dust, dirt or residue make it past one. Aside from some extra power and efficiency; you get a little more turbo whine and blow off; not as much as the open cone solutions; but then the drop in has cold air draw and stock appearance.

But to each his own.