Photo: CarPix
BMW is working on a new generation of its X3, and our spy photographers have already caught the first prototypes as they were being offloaded from a closed trailer. The next-gen BMW X3 is set for a late 2023 reveal as an MY2024 vehicle, and we can already see that it will continue to have internal combustion-engined versions.
The examples in the photo gallery reveal what is believed to be a 2024 BMW X3 M40i, or something close to the range-topper, as the model comes with quad exhaust pipes. It is worth noting that this is not the next-gen BMW X3 M, as the latter would come with bigger exhaust pipes, flared front and rear fenders, and other such elements.
Instead, the X3 M40i would be as close to an X3 M as possible without being one. The brakes will be a bit smaller or have fewer pistons in their calipers, while the suspension will not have the same tuning as the M model, but something close.
It will be a challenge for engineers, as it always is, to find the right balance when making a model like this, which needs to be sportier than the rest of the range, but not the sportiest.
As you can observe, the lights on the vehicle are not final, and you should expect them to change by the time this X3 becomes a production model.
All signs point to thinner lights, but their general shape, as well as position, should remain unchanged from what can be seen on this prototype. Expect LED lights as standard, with LED Matrix or Laser lights as an optional feature.
The front grille of the upcoming BMW X3 is set to grow, but do not be deceived by the closed one on this prototype. It does not take long to see the holes that have been drilled in the front bumper, just where the license plate is meant to sit.
No matter how modern it is, the engine will still need proper cooling and an air intake, and simply closing the entire front would not work, not even in winter testing conditions.
Just like other BMW models, the upcoming X3 will come with an active front grille, as well as other devices meant to optimize the vehicle's thermal efficiency, reduce its fuel consumption, and cut CO2 emissions.
BMW will also offer multiple versions of the upcoming X3, so we should see it in full-electric, PHEV, and hybrid versions, not to mention a hybridized X3 M.
In other words, we are set to see many 2024 BMW X3 prototypes in the following year and a half, so brace yourself to see a bigger grille.
Instead, the X3 M40i would be as close to an X3 M as possible without being one. The brakes will be a bit smaller or have fewer pistons in their calipers, while the suspension will not have the same tuning as the M model, but something close.
It will be a challenge for engineers, as it always is, to find the right balance when making a model like this, which needs to be sportier than the rest of the range, but not the sportiest.
As you can observe, the lights on the vehicle are not final, and you should expect them to change by the time this X3 becomes a production model.
All signs point to thinner lights, but their general shape, as well as position, should remain unchanged from what can be seen on this prototype. Expect LED lights as standard, with LED Matrix or Laser lights as an optional feature.
The front grille of the upcoming BMW X3 is set to grow, but do not be deceived by the closed one on this prototype. It does not take long to see the holes that have been drilled in the front bumper, just where the license plate is meant to sit.
No matter how modern it is, the engine will still need proper cooling and an air intake, and simply closing the entire front would not work, not even in winter testing conditions.
Just like other BMW models, the upcoming X3 will come with an active front grille, as well as other devices meant to optimize the vehicle's thermal efficiency, reduce its fuel consumption, and cut CO2 emissions.
BMW will also offer multiple versions of the upcoming X3, so we should see it in full-electric, PHEV, and hybrid versions, not to mention a hybridized X3 M.
In other words, we are set to see many 2024 BMW X3 prototypes in the following year and a half, so brace yourself to see a bigger grille.
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