The latest spy images show a car with completely finished headlights and tail lights, slightly expanded dimensions for added interior space and more X5-like styling. Bringing in the X5 resemblance could also be a calculated move to help some of the upcoming X5 M model's cachet rub off on the smaller sibling. In addition to the revamped exterior, a full array of gadgets and features are expected to be available for the X3 to help keep its edge against Audi and Mercedes. It is even possible that BMW could make the night-vision heads-up display currently found in the X6 and other models available on the X3. Bi-xenon lights with around-corner capability and new seats that feature massage functions and ventilation are also expected for the new model.
Engines will remain largely the same, with a choice of four diesels ranging from 177hp (132kW) to 299hp (223kW), and most markets getting the option of two petrol engines rated at 231hp (172kW) and 306hp (228kW). A new hybrid model is also tipped to be on the table, though specifications are still forthcoming.
Joining the next-generation X3 at the end of the decade will be a second smaller X1 SUV based on the recently revealed Concept X1, which you can see testing in our previous spy shot story by clicking here.
Reader Comments
Tue May 6 2008 9:52 AM
cj says
wow that is ugy
Tue May 6 2008 1:44 PM
Bradley says
It says in the article this car will face stiff competition from the audi q5, the audi is going to kill the X3, why dont they style it more like the X5 so it doesnt look so ugly.
Tue May 6 2008 2:08 PM
Renton says
Ummmm... since Audi has not built a vehicle in this segment yet and BMW invented the premium small SUV. I don't know how you could come up with such a bold statement.
BMW consistanly owns Audi in the performance and drivability aspect, I just have to disagree.
Plus look around those X3s are everywhere despite being ugly.
Tue May 6 2008 2:41 PM
Nick says
That is just 2 categories performance and driveabiliy, audi owns bmw with interior, and of late in styling, CLEARLY with this prototype. Ive ownded bmw and audis and both are great. But I agree with bradley the new audi is going to beat the x3 when they are both released guaranteed. Look at the styling it is almost like night and day audi's Q5 is way better.
Tue May 6 2008 4:16 PM
Francis says
Im a bmw fanatic, but the X3 is an eye sore for BMW, and by these prototypes it isnt improving. The Q5 looks like a greatly styled vehicle in this segment. Im not sure about the glk it looks weird
Tue May 6 2008 9:02 PM
Wizards Lore says
notch one up for the Audi Q5 after seeing these prototypes...
The X3 is dog aweful, and the funniest thing is, when you spec the X3 to a level that befits a BMW you are already into the X5 range in price with comparable trims...i know which one i would prefer !
Tue May 6 2008 10:35 PM
Renton says
Well, there is no Audi that will have that amazing 3.0 ltr twin turbo motor.
Performance and drivability may only be two factors, but they are big factors. Audi has great interiors, I've owned one.
BMW just gets the little nuances that great driving cars have. The steering feel, the brake feel, the balance.....don't forget the balance. BMWs are always the best balanced, Audis are always a little front heavy.
Besides....no one knows what the styling will be, this is just a chassis tester with a 3 wagon on it.
Go ahead an buy your Audis, that's why we have choices.
Wed May 7 2008 5:31 AM
Sonic says
That is not what the X3 igonna look like. The X3 bodywork isnt even on that car. If you look they have used the 5 series estate as the body for it. dumbasses. the X3 engine and all that crap are underneath it,
Fri May 9 2008 2:08 PM
NaBUru38 says
Sonic is right, this is just a mule (though the external panels come from the 3 Series Touring).
The first-gen X3 and X5 were terribly ugly. The X5's only fault regarding design is its size. So BMW just has to shink the X5, add some details fom the CS and reduce its weight. Since they have a little more experience with off-roaders then Audi, BMW must take the chance of producing the perfect D-segment performance off-roader.
Mon May 12 2008 2:40 PM
christian says
Man those rims/wheels are hot on the silver one, i hope those come standard.
Sat May 17 2008 3:51 PM
KiloByte says
LOL the Q5 is going to own this hands down.
Wed May 21 2008 3:25 PM
Gunnar says
The first gen X5 was actually a sharp ute.
Wed Aug 27 2008 4:29 PM
NoNameDenton says
This is a rendering do not pass judgment till the actual vehicle is shown.
Thu Aug 28 2008 3:07 AM
mb_81 says
that`s an X1, idiots!! Only the X1 will get this crossover-shape!!
Mon Oct 13 2008 9:33 PM
NoNameDenton says
Or the X3 is getting smaller like the Cayenne
Tue Oct 21 2008 11:01 AM
msira says
The GLK is going to rock this segment- it's got the X3 and Q5 beat with its S-class like fit and finish and "curb appeal."
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