BMW X3 M in the Pipeline?
The next generation BMW X3 could be gearing up for two new and interesting variants that don’t exist in the current version (pictured).
According to a report by Motoring.com.au, BMW’s engineers are wrapping up work on the next X1 and turning to developing a replacement for the current X3. The next generation will ride on a new modular rear-wheel drive platform that will also serve as the basis for most of BMW’s crossovers and mid- to full-size sedans.
When the next X3 – internally codenamed G01 – arrives, the report claims that there will be a high-performance M model to accompany the more pedestrian products. The first-ever X3 M is slated to be powered by the same 3.0-liter straight-six that BMW uses in the M3/M4 to create at least 425 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. A manual transmission is unlikely in the package.
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But that won’t be the only new variant because BMW is also laying plans to offer a hybrid version that will use a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a small electric motor built into the eight-speed automatic transmission. That powertrain will supposedly generate 328 HP with the ability to travel up to 30 miles without using gasoline.
The new model is supposedly going to arrive in Europe late in 2016 shortly after the Paris Motor Show that year.
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[Source: Motoring.com.au]
Luke is an energetic automotive journalist who spends his time covering industry news and crawling the internet for the latest breaking story. When he isn't in the office, Luke can be found obsessively browsing used car listings, drinking scotch at his favorite bar and dreaming of what to drive next, though the list grows a lot faster than his bank account. He's always on <A title="@lukevandezande on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/lukevandezande">Twitter</A> looking for a good car conversation. Find Luke on <A title="@lukevandezande on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/lukevandezande">Twitter</A> and <A title="Luke on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/112531385961538774338?rel=author">Google+</A>.
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