New BMW X3

[PeteH]

Thoughts? Looks like a slightly grown up version of the X1. Personally I think it looks good and it should have the build quality of the 3 series.



The next generation BMW X3 has been spied out testing. And in fitting with its modern-day SUV image, it was spotted at the track rather than traversing valleys and overcoming muddy inclines.

Rather predictably, the track in question resides in the Eifel Mountains, but you’d expect nothing less of BMW than to head to the Nürburgring to keep its performance analysis patriotic.

When the X3 launches it will be the mid-point of the Bavarians’ SUV range, sandwiched in between the Freelander-rivaling X1 and the big X5. That’s not forgetting the ‘SUV coupe’ BMW X6, of course. It has a bit of a job on its hands though, the outgoing X3 being a car that never really got the praise and accolades of its bigger brother.

The engine range will be borrowed from other corners of the BMW range, which is never a bad thing – the absolutely cracking 302bhp 3-litre twin-turbo (from the 135i and Z4 sDrive 35i among others) and 201bhp 2-litre (from the 123d) are expected to be the respective petrol and diesel highlights. A good bet is for a hybrid to join the range, too, utilising technology from the X6 ActiveHybrid.

Size-wise, the new car is likely to be bigger than its predecessor by virtue of the new ‘baby’ SUV X1 being so similar in proportion to the current X3. Styling is likely to be kept in line with the 7-series and 5-series GT, with familiar BMW lights, grilles and detailing but with a smoother and less controversial shape than previous Chris Bangle-designed models.

Expect to see a concept previewing the new X3 on the motor show circuit next year, with a road going model on sale by 2011.

[Flamez]

Looks more of a facelift than a new model. I like the colour

[pvr]

I drove the original X3 in 2005 when I performed a weekend test drive in The Netherlands, as they only had the 3.0D model on the continent. The ride and quality of the car was shocking and one of the main irritants was when it was raining, the bottom of your trousers would get filthy when getting out of the car.

The X5 did not have that problem and felt like a major improvement on the X3 with very little price difference between the models to justify the choise of an X3.

Roll on a few years and my dad bought the 3.0si last year. I drove that car and must say that the quality was hugely improved. The original X3 had that horrible dashboard from the Z4 (black plastic with the little knobs on it). The new model was far superior in fitting with leather everywhere like it was / is on the X5. I think they must have listened to the global critisism of that model.

When the new X3 comes out, I will have a look at it as it is more of a contender now then another X5.