With a couple of months left before its official unveiling, the second generation BMW X3 continues the final evaluation phase testing. The recent test mule was spotted in Germany and compared to the previous shots, more “skin” is being revealed.
The 2011 BMW X3 runs on the next generation 3 Series platform and measures 15.15 feet in length, two inches longer than the current model featuring more rounded design lines and a sleeker look. The F25 is moving up in size with dimensions closer to the first generation BMW X5.
The “kicked-up” window line that first saw the daylight in the X3 will be again evident and it will be seen as an X3 characteristic, a design element that will be associated with the model.
While sitting higher than the X1, the new X3 seems to have inherited some of the features from the new entry-level compact SAV, mostly around the front-fascia.
The kidneys are sitting lower than in the current model and below them, there is another air opening as seen on the X5.
Inside, we expect to see a similar design as in the newly X1, a far more luxurious approach that will fix some of the complaints the X3 owners previously had. Along with high quality materials, the 2011 X3 will offer several options seen in higher end models: Night Vision System, Head-Up Display, Adaptive Headlights or seats with ventilation.
While the first generation X3 was assembled in Austria by Magna Steyr automaker, the new F25 model joins the X-family at their Spartanburg plant in South Carolina.
[Source: Car Magazine ]
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/03/26/spy-p ... unveiling/