The 2017 BMW X3 has leaked ahead of its world premiere at the BMW Group Spartanburg Plant on 26 June.
As expected, the third generation BMW X3 (codename: BMW G01) features an evolutionary design and has hints of the second generation BMW X1. The new kidney grille design, more aggressive front apron and especially the larger tail lamps look inspired by the BMW X1. The model in the leaked images is the BMW M40i xDrive, which sports LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, large wheels, blue brake callipers and dual exhausts.
The interior of the 2017 BMW X3 is completely redesigned. The three-spoke steering wheel, instrument panel, centre console, HVAC vents, floor console, gearshift lever, switchgear and pedals are all-new.
The designers have borrowed bits and bobs from the BMW X1 and BMW 5 Series, consider those aluminium pedal covers and footrest for instance. The infotainment system now has a free-standing display on the dashboard.
The third-generation BMW X3 is said to ride on the CLAR platform and save 50-100 kg with the new underpinning. BMW is expected to offer the all-new X3 with the latest 2.0- and 3.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines from the other family models, in sDrive rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive models. Transmission choices would include 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic.
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Sometime next year, a plug-in hybrid model is likely to follow, with the BMW 3 Series iPerformance (BMW 330e)'s powertrain which has a 2.0-litre petrol engine and an electric motor working to develop 185 kW (252 hp) and 420 Nm of torque. Also expected, is a high-performance M variant with the 317 kW (431 hp) 3.0-litre (twin-turbo) straight-six petrol engine of the BMW M3.
[Image Source: BMW Blog]
