New G45-gen BMW X3 ‘Teased’ With Vast Improvements All Around

Here's your first look at the upcoming new fourth-gen (G45) BMW X3.

The new fourth-generation BMW X3 is set to debut very soon and go on sale this year. Ahead of which, the Bavarian automaker has released initial details about the new luxury crossover SUV that now bears the new G45 chassis code, which will also underpins BMW’s tried and tested CLAR platform.

A selection of preview images featuring a camouflaged prototype were also released. From which, we can see that the new X3 will arrive with a sleeker body that also allowed the Bavarian marque to lower drag coefficient figure from 0.29 to 0.27 for improved fuel efficiency.

Another notable visual tweak is the exhaust tips present. It appears the new performance range-topper will get X3 M-styled quad-tailpipes – a trait formerly reserved for said M-built model only. That aside, what’s evident too is a wider track compared to the outgoing "G01" generation, along with a reduced rear axle lift.

The new X3 will feature an all-new and sleeker body that's also more aerodynamic. Other enhancements have been made to the chassis too.

Notably, the new-gen X3 is set to see its sporty range-topper bear a new ‘M50’ designation – not the  usual ‘M40i’ naming. This also sees the new X3 stand as BMW’s first SUV model to drop the ‘i' lettering from its designation. Instead, both diesel and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) guises will continue to see their respective ‘d’ and ‘e’ suffixes retained.

BMW notes that its engineers were able to raise rigidity and adopt upgraded anti-roll bars for a more engaging ride, and it comes without penalising on ride comfort. On this front, adaptive chassis featuring electronically controlled shock absorbers will be available as a cost-option. Also primed is a more direct steering ratio for greater comfort, and the latest safety and driver assistances.

On board, the cabin is set to feature a simplified dashboard layout with just a few conventional buttons. Most functions will still be accessible through the touchscreen, as seen in nearly all other BMWs on sale today. Crucially, the latest in safety and driver assistance (ADAS) tech will be laced, and BMW confident of the revamped X3’s ability to pass Euro NCAP crash tests with flying colors.

A bevy of BMW's latest ADAS features will be laced in the new X3 too, and the Bavarian marque is confident of the model's ability to garner high EURO NCAP crash-testing scores.

By the way, an new all-electric iX3 model is also planned, but this will come later and will be a totally different vehicle from this combustion-powered version detailed. In fact, the new iX3 was already previewed in the much hyped about Neue Klasse X concept car.

Expect more details on the new fourth-gen BMW X3 once it debuts in a few weeks’ time.