F25 X3 spy shots

[LeMansX5]

"For the first time ever, spies caught the next-generation X3! The current X3 will have to soldier on for a few more years until the arrival of an all-new model slatted for the 2011 model year. Nonetheless, these are the very first spy-shots of Munich’s (and Spartanburg’s!) compact SUV photographed earlier today.

The new X3’s dimensions will hardly change compared with the current one, and its styling will be shaped to reflect elements from the CS Concept. The basic shape will remain much the same, however the new model is expected to feature a more prominent grille plus new wraparound headlights.

Designers will also focus on improving the quality of the interior, as the new X3 will be facing stiff competition from the recently unveiled new Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLK.

Production of the X3 will be moved to BMW’s Spartanburg plant, where it will be built alongside the new X6 and X5.

Expect to see the twin-turbo 3.0-liter from the 335i make its way into the X3 range, as well as the powerful but frugal new 204-hp 2.0-liter turbodiesel. A new hybrid model is also tipped to be on the table."

[Wagner]

curious why it will take so long......

[Derek]

That would give the e83 a 7 year model run.... Isn't 6-7 normal for most models? It seems like a long run considering all of the new competition that has appeared in the last year or so.

[LeMansX5]

[LeMansX5]

The current BMW X3 will soldier on for at least the next few years until the arrival of an all-new model towards the end of the decade. Nonetheless, these are the very first spy-shots of Munich’s compact SUV, snapped undergoing road tests outside the Nürburgring.

The new X3’s dimensions will hardly change compared with the current car and its styling will be shaped to reflect elements from the CS Concept. The basic shape will remain much the same, however the new model is expected to feature a more prominent grille plus new wraparound headlights.

Designers will also focus on improving the quality of the interior, as the new X3 will be facing stiff competition from the recently unveiled new Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLK.

Production of the X3 will be moved to BMW’s Spartanburg plant in the U.S. where it will be built alongside the new X6 and X5. Expect to see the twin-turbo 3.0-litre from the 335i make its way into the X3 range as well as the powerful but frugal new 152kw 2.0-litre turbodiesel.

A new hybrid model is also tipped to be on the table.

[autoque]

I agree. 2011 sounds like a long time from now. MB GLK will hit the showrooms on January of 2009. I would like to see the new X3 come out sooner and compete with the GLK!!

[AzNMpower32]

Originally Posted by Derek

That would give the e83 a 7 year model run.... Isn't 6-7 normal for most models? It seems like a long run considering all of the new competition that has appeared in the last year or so.

It's not unusually long at all. The E83 debuted in 2004. 2011 is a 7 model year run.

The X3 is very popular in Europe. Saw loads in Germany, and it is really a terrific vehicle. I don't understand the disdain in America for the X3. Then again, I don't understand our fascination with wood trim, beige leather, or electric seats.

[Price]

Originally Posted by AzNMpower32

.. I don't understand the disdain in America for the X3. ...

My take - it's the looks and the price (i.e. 'value' in the eyes of a consumer)

[Doomdriver]

Originally Posted by AzNMpower32

It's not unusually long at all. The E83 debuted in 2004. 2011 is a 7 model year run.

The X3 is very popular in Europe. Saw loads in Germany, and it is really a terrific vehicle. I don't understand the disdain in America for the X3. Then again, I don't understand our fascination with wood trim, beige leather, or electric seats.

Up until recently Americans and Canadians were into bigger is better - note the upscaled size of the 1/2 ton trucks and SUVs and 6 months ago gas mileage did not matter. Fast forward to Aug 08 and these big vehicles are being shunned. The likes of the X3 will become prime imho

[LeMansX5]

Wait till the 2nd gen X3 hits the market, especially in looks and tech department. It will be ahead of Audi, MB and Acura.