Information on AutoExpress about Updated X3 Coming Out Next Year
 

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/56..._x_appeal.html

BMW SUV's Added X Appeal

This week's mag pictures prove that BMW's X3 is getting an early makeover in readiness for increased competition from Land Rover's eagerly anticipated all-new Freelander and the Volvo XC50.

While the styling changes are subtle, the 4x4 gets revised bumpers front and rear. The idea is to give the X3 a sleeker appearance; the current car's looks have been criticised for their fussiness, and designers want to make things simpler.

The biggest changes come inside. Bringing BMW's smallest off-roader in line with the X5, trim will be dramatically upgraded. High quality soft-touch plastics will replace the cheap-feeling material found on the dashboard, while equipment levels are expected to be revised to improve value for money.

Under the bonnet, the X3 will feature cutting-edge powerplants from the new 3-Series. The 2.5-litre petrol unit will get a 23bhp power boost to 215bhp, while the more costly 3.0-litre engine is also uprated from 231bhp to 254bhp.

Extra sound-deadening material will improve refinement on all variants. But no chassis alterations are expected - rather than deliver a complete overhaul, BMW intends to address specific minor weaknesses in the X3 package.

Facelifted models will go on sale in Germany in September next year, with right-hand-drive cars due before the end of 2006. Competition in this class is set to be fierce, with the Volvo and Land Rover using the next Ford Mondeo platform.

Face lifted X3 - Next year
 

If it looks anything like the images of the factlifted model that have been floating around this site, I don't want one.

The sound deadening material is definitely needed though.

It's such a matter of perspective....the X3 is the quietest car I've had! My friends have also remarked on how quiet it is. :dunno: It is also my first BMW, so maybe others are quieter.

I agree about the exterior. More black bumpers = bleck! If they keep going that way, it'll look like a Nissan X-Turda!

just the article i wanted to read jeff, new engine on x3 3.0! yyyyyyyeeeeeeeeeeeeeeahw