F25 X3 test mule pics

[LeMansX5]

The current BMW X3 will have to soldier on for a few more years until the arrival of an all-new model at the end of the decade. These latest spy shots of a suspicious 3-series wagon with a much taller ride-height than the standard model are believed to be of the prototype for the new X3, taken as the car was undergoing high-speed testing at the Nurburgring.

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 3.0L from the 335i make its way into the X3 range as well as the powerful but frugal new 204hp 2.0L turbodiesel. A new hybrid model is also tipped to be on the table.