BMW has already launched the third-generation X3 Sports Activity Vehicle, so why are X3's still running around South Carolina roads and what appears to be the Nürburgring Nordschleife in test-vehicle camouflage? Because this may be an X3 like no other before it, that's why. If these spy photos portend the future, BMW may be ready to offer a full-on M version of the X3 for the first time.
We're not talking about the M40i M Performance version of the X3. This prototype might be a real M car, which means it would have to be propelled by a real M engine, possibly lifted directly from the current M3. An X3 M would also require styling and aerodynamic elements like other M vehicles, such as a front fascia with two huge M-type side air scoops and a large center air intake. As reported by TheFastLaneCar.com, sharp-eyed photographer David L. caught a virtually uncamouflaged M3 on the road in South Carolina that sported just such a frontal appearance. You know South Carolina, where they Build X3s?
Meanwhile, from Europe come more spy shots from CarPix of an X3 with slightly more camouflage on the nose. This makes it harder to see the M-ness of the air scoops, but they are not inconsistent with David L.'s photos. Peeking out from under the rear fascia are possibly quad tailpipes, a confident M car giveaway.
BMW is expecting great things from the G01 X3, and may even be hoping that the third-generation X3 outsells the company's standard-bearer of the X family, the BMW X5. Since there is already an X5 M, it's only fair that there be an X3 M. The smaller, lighter X3 with an M-tuned suspension and the same 400-plus horsepower motor as the M3 could make the X3 a lot of fun to drive while still maintaining the positive SAV attributes of great visibilit and nice cargo space.
BMW will probably let the normal X3 versions bathe in the media sunlight and glory over the next few months, and it will almost certainly garner its share of praise and awards. Then it might be time to spring the X3 M onto the automotive stage. It should cause quite a stir. We're hoping that's what BMW has planned.—Scott Blazey
[Photos courtesy of David L. via TFLCar.com and CarPix.]
