BMW X3 M Drops Camouflage and Smiles for the Camera
The upcoming BMW X3 M could have 450 to 460 horsepower and spy photographers have caught the new hopped-up crossover testing.
Now that the 2018 BMW X3 has been officially revealed, the German automaker doesn’t need to keep the entire X3 M camouflaged. As a result, only the parts that are different on the M model remain covered up, giving us a better idea of what to expect on the high-performance crossover.
This is the first time the X3 lineup will have an M variant, as it looks to compete with other luxury crossovers in the segment, such as the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GLC, Audi RS Q5, and the existing Porsche Macan. When spy photographers caught the BMW X3 M testing last winter, it was being benchmarked against the Macan.
SEE ALSO: BMW X3 M Spied Making Laps Around the Nurburgring
We can see the X3 M will get a much sportier front bumper with large air intakes, while the side skirts, rear diffuser, and roof spoiler are all different than the standard X3. And like all other M models, there are bigger brakes, wheels, and tires, while a quad exhaust setup shoots out the rear.
The German automaker hasn’t confirmed what will power the X3, but rumors say it will be a next-generation turbocharged inline-six engine with around 450 to 460 hp.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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