That’s the current BMW X3 isn’t it? Just covered in a fancy wrap?
It certainly looks similar to the current car, doesn’t it? But, rest assured, this is a brand-new BMW X3. The fourth generation of BMW’s big-selling midsize SUV has the task of holding the Audi Q5, Mercedes GLC, Jaguar F-Pace and Range Rover Velar at bay.
The X3 is going to get a pair of newly designed headlights, which we expect will look similar to the facelifted BMW 4 Series’ lights. It’s hard to tell the size of the grilles through the camouflage, but it looks likely that the grilles will be taller than before. There’ll also be a new front bumper.
At a glance, the new X3 looks a little longer than its predecessor, which should increase passenger space and/or boot space. The current car offers 550 litres in non-hybrid models – the new car’s should be more to set it apart from the 540-litre boot you get in the latest BMW X1, which is smaller and cheaper.
While most of the interior is hidden in this late-stage prototype, it’s clear that the X3 will have two large screens – one for the driver’s display and one for the infotainment system. The setup looks the same as the facelifted BMW 3 Series, and the touchscreen will feature BMW’s latest iDrive 9 media software. Although the iDrive controller dial has been removed from some new BMWs, such as the iX and the 2 Series Active Tourer, it will be retained in the X3.
The new X3 has a wider track – the difference between the left and right wheel – than before, as well as a more rigid body. BMW says the changes add up to a more stable driving experience, while the steering ratio and the anti-roll bars have been updated in an attempt to make the X3 drive better than before. What’s more, improvements to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency should make it more economical and quicker, too.
Petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines will be available, but there’s no word yet on an electric iX3 version. There’ll be a new BMW X3 M Competition, too, judging by the four exhausts and the exclusive M wing mirrors on the picture above.
We’re told that the new BMW X3 will be revealed in the next few weeks, so it’ll probably go on sale before the end of the year. Expect prices to start from over £50,000.
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