In a recent sighting during winter testing, the upcoming iteration of BMW’s X3, a stalwart in the combustion-powered lineup, appears to follow the traditional design path set by its predecessor. While the electric counterpart, the iX3, is charting a distinct design direction, the combustion-powered X3 stays true to its roots.
Continuing the X3 tradition, the next-generation model showcases a subtle evolution in its styling. The iconic double-kidney grille, a signature BMW feature, maintains its proportions without a drastic expansion, flanked by slim headlights featuring angular integrated LED daytime running lights reminiscent of the current model.
Despite heavy camouflage on the prototype, it seems that the sharp side creases of the current X3 have been softened, although the beltline retains its familiar appearance with a pronounced uptick aft of the rear doors. At the rear, the tail lights remain substantial, with a lower-positioned number plate and a seemingly smaller rear window.
Inside the cabin, the upcoming X3 embraces the BMW Curved Display, a sleek integration of the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The shifter design takes on a modern, stubby form, while the steering wheel retains a combination of scroll wheels and physical buttons.
BMW aficionados have been monitoring X3 prototypes since 2022, and production is confirmed to commence at the Rosslyn plant in South Africa in 2024, with global exports planned.
According to insider information compiled by BimmerPost forum user ynguldyn, the fourth-generation X3 is expected to start production in August. Unlike its predecessor, it won’t spawn an electric iX3 variant. Instead, a new electric SUV on the dedicated Neue Klasse architecture is anticipated to take its place. Nevertheless, a range of carryover petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains is expected to be available.
In 2023, the redesigned X1 surpassed the X3 as BMW’s best-selling model in Australia. Despite the X3 selling 4002 units, the X1 and competitors like the Audi Q5 and Lexus NX achieved higher sales figures, adding an interesting dimension to BMW’s lineup dynamics.
