New BMW X3 Leaked with XM-Inspired Design & Big Front Grille

The fourth-gen (G45) BMW X3 has been leaked online just months ahead of its planned debut this year.

It is no secret that BMW is preparing the X3 SUV for a next-gen redux with a fourth-gen mode, codenamed G45, which is set to debut sometime this year. Ahead of its grand unveiling, it appears that the new X3 has leaked online, with the new SUV model featuring some design cues taken from Bimmer’s new flagship SUV, the BMW XM.

Leaked via @wilcoblok Instagram account, the new X3 adopts the XM’s massive kidney grille design, featuring the same LED surround as we saw on many newer BMW SUVs. Also similar to the XM here is the X3’s overall front profile, which is noticeably more squared off compared to the current-gen model.

Apart from that, there’s nothing else we can derive from the single spy photo leaked online, besides that the model shown here could be a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant of the new X3, as indicated by the presence of a charging port on the left front fender side of the SUV.

Fourth-gen (G45) BMW X3 teased with a camouflage wrap earlier this year.

According to BMW, the new, ICE-powered X3 will arrive alongside a fully-electric version known as the iX3. While the ICE version rides on the same CLAR platform as the model it replaces, the next-gen iX3 EV SUV will use BMW’s new Neue Klasse platform.

BMW Vision Neue Klasse X concept EV SUV

More importantly, the new iX3 was indirectly previewed by the Vision Neue Klasse X concept unveiled by the Bavarian marque earlier this year. Should this be true, then we’ll be seeing both the X3 and iX3 as their own separate models, unlike both the X1 and X2 that share the same base as their EV twins, the iX1 and iX2.

In terms of powertrain lineup, we can expect the new X3 to follow the same route as its predecessor, where it is expected to feature several pure ICE versions using either a 2.0-litre 4-cyl unit from the 3 Series or a larger 3.0-litre straight-six mill derived from the X5. Along with those, we can also expect both the PHEV and diesel versions, although the latter might not make its way into our market.