The upcoming BMW X3 M headed back to the track this week for more high-speed testing. The third M SUV to be launched was spotted at the Nurburgring giving us another look at its driving dynamics and performance. And its new powerplant.

Building upon the S55 3.0 liter six-cylinder unit found in the M3/M4, BMW M engineers will give us the S58 unit with upgraded hardware and a power output between 450 and 460 horsepower.

The front-end of the X3 M present itself flatter, yet beefier than the current model and with a new set of LED headlights. A character line runs from the front wheel arch on both door handles to the rear lights, which – are finally running used full LED technology.

The F97 X3 M will sport the typical M design, with an aggressive front fascia including a sculpted bumper and large air curtains, along with flared wheel arches and a lower stance. The X3 M also gets a more muscular look with flared whee larches, wider fenders and a lower stance. The rear-end will deliver the M signature quad tailpipes integrated into a redesigned and sporty bumper.

BMW will unveil the X3 M next year and it’s likely to go on sale in late 2018.