New BMW X3 M performance model spied ~ station of gear

Hot version of BMW's new mid-sized X3 SUV likely to come with M3 power when it arrives in 2018

2016-12-02 12:25

BMW is gearing up for the launch of a new version of its mid-sized X3 SUV, but our spy photographers have also spotted a potential performance model – likely called the X3 M – testing at the Nurburgring.

The third generation X3 will slot into a rapidly expanding X-range of BMW SUVs, rivalling the Audi Q5 and Porsche Macan when it arrives halfway through 2017, with a smaller X2 and a full-size seven seat X7 also on the way.

• New 2017 BMW X3 spy shots and info

The introduction of the X2 means the X3 will no longer be the entry level bellwether of the X-range, and as such, sources at BMW have confirmed to Auto Express that a hot M Performance X3 model will happen, as it has done with the larger X5 M.

Image 5 of 7

Image 5 of 7

The new X3 isn’t expected to change too dramatically in terms of how it looks, but the X3 M ought to stand out. The development mule wears heavy masking but our shots hint at an aggressive looking BMW SUV, with sculpted and extended bumpers, plus extended side skirts.

It looks lower and more purposeful than the spy shots we’ve seen of the regular X3. The front bumper is riddled with air inlets, and above the rear window sits a new rear spoiler.

In terms of performance, you can expect the X3 M to be a Porsche Macan Turbo rival. As such we’re expecting the 425bhp 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight six from the M3 to be lifted out and wedged under the X3 M’s bonnet. The new lightweight CLAR architecture underpinning the next X3 means it should be considerably lighter than the old model too.

Underneath the X3 M, a tamer X3 M40i model could arrive considering the appearance of the X4 M40i earlier this year. Though the new X3 should be on the road in the UK before the end of 2017, we don’t anticipate the X3 M model going on sale until 2018.

X3 diesel M Performance

Alongside the X3 M, we’ve been told not to rule out a new diesel powered M Performance vehicle, similar vein to the current X3-based Alpina XD3. A de-tuned version of the 3.0-litre tri-turbodiesel V6 found in the M50d – the X5’s performance diesel variant – would be a likely powerplant for this car.

Is making a hot version of the X3 a good idea? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

James Brodie

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