2017 BMW X3 spotted testing

The next-generation BMW X3 has been spotted undergoing winter testing in Europe. Though it might resemble the current car aesthetically, the new X3 will be based on a new modular architecture and will be lighter and smaller than the current generation X3.

The heavy camouflage on the test mule successfully hides the finer details of the new X3. In the front, the new X3 will continue to sport the familiar kidney grille flanked by redesigned headlamps on both sides. Despite being smaller in dimension, the new X3 is expected to be roomier than the current car thanks to the modular architecture. 

The 2017 X3 will carry forward the current car’s engine line-up. New additions to the X3 range will include a plug-in hybrid variant and a performance oriented ‘M’ model. The hybrid model is expected to house a 90hp electric motor coupled to a 240bhp turbocharged four-pot engine, which will give the car a 50km range on pure electric energy. The X3M40i on the other hand, will be powered by a 3.0-litre inline six engine, producing in excess of 340bhp. 

While the previous X3 had failed to meet expectations in the Indian market, the new facelift has been selling in pretty decent numbers. We expect the next generation X3 to be introduced by mid-2017.  The current X3 competes with other SUVs like the Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and the Land Rover Freelander 2.