An all-new BMW X3 will debut alongside a performance M Sport model at the Paris Motor Show.
Though it won’t make its official debut until the Paris Motor Show’s press preview, later this week, the world has already gotten a pretty good glimpse at the second-generation X3 Sport-Activity Vehicle.
Tauter, more aggressive and more refined, it will appear in several versions at the 2010 Mondial de l’Automobile, including a performance-oriented X3 M Sport, shown here.
Developed by the Bavarian maker’s vaunted M division, the X3 M Sport gets a number of modifications, BMW says, to its “chassis, aerodynamics, exterior and interior components (which) allow for further optimization of the exceptional dynamics of the new BMW X3 as well as lending them a visually striking look.”
The new BMW X3 M Sport gets a number of design tweaks, both cosmetic and to enhance performance.
To get beyond the press release, that translates into lowered bumpers, different wheels – running up to 20 inches — and modified chrome exhausts, as well as deeper side skirts. In line with other M Sport models, we’re expecting to hear about an adaptive suspension package, M sill plates and other niceties.
The original X3 took plenty of hits for its relatively tinny feel, at least by BMW standards. For the 2011 remake the company is using lots of aluminum to hold down mass, an important step for a vehicle that’s notably bigger than in first-gen form.
A number of powertrain combinations will be offered, from the base xDrive28i, with its 240-horsepower, 3.0-liter Inline-6, to the xDrive35i, with a 300-hp turbo version of the six. It’s expected to do 0 to 60 in 5.5 seconds. An eight-speed automatic gearbox will be standard on all models.
The crossover’s standard-issue all-wheel-drive system, meanwhile, will get BMW’s Performance Control system.
Look for the X3 and X3 M Sport to both reach U.S. shores later this year.