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BMW X3 M Rumored to Become Reality in 2017

The current BMW F25 X3 just got a full facelift and the new models are now available around the world, some of them featuring the new B-Series engines that will soon make up the entire line-up. With less than 3 years of production to go, the rumor mill surrounding the next model is already kicking in.
BMW F25 X3 LCI 1 photo
Photo: BMW
And that’s not a surprise in any way, especially if you take a look at the sales it recorded over the years. While, at first, most people claimed that the X3 will be a failure (as they usually do with every new model that the Germans release), the ‘smaller X5’ proved them all wrong its sales.

In the US, for example, the X3 is only overshadowed in popularity by its smaller, cheaper brother, the X1, the 3 Series and the 5 Series, each kings in their respective segments for decades.

As for the upcoming models, the rumors are saying that drastic changes are in order. According to Automobile, the 2017 model will be codenamed G01 and will be using the 35up platform that is supposed to underpin some models from the 3 Series upwards.

Of course, having to cope with ever restricting CO2 emission regulations and the need for more efficient engines, the G01 X3 will shed some weight. Sources say that it will be around 100 kilos (200 lbs) on the current model, which is a rather impressive achievement.

Furthermore, the new platform will supposedly be more rigid and spacious, allowing the designers and engineers to use the car’s space more efficiently. Thanks to aluminum and carbon fibre usage that keep the weight in check and new engines, the fuel consumption should also go down.

Speaking of the new engines, the B-series engine family, with its 3-, 4- and 6-cylinder plants will offer more power with cleaner emissions. On average, the increase will be of around 15-20 HP and 20 lb-ft of torque, not hugely important but decisive in some cases.

What’s even more interesting is that an X3 M is rumored more and more lately. Said to feature a similar engine as the one used on the current M3 and M4, such a model would be the first of its kind in the segment as Audi and Mercedes do offer powerful alternatives but no AMG or RS models.

We’re rather reluctant towards such a model however, for now. That’s because BMW was adamant in denying such rumors, every time it got the chance. Furthermore, our own reliable source inside the company told us already that there are plans to build an M40i version that will be part of the M Performance Automobile division, fitted with a 360 HP inline 6-cylinder engine used on the upcoming M2 as well.

That would mean that the X3 range would have an M Performance Automobile and an M car at the same time. That wouldn’t be a problem as the 2 Series will follow the same road in the years to come but the X3 M is not as demanded and sought after as the M2 so it probably isn’t a priority and won’t be in the near future.
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