The next-generation of BMW X3 is an important car for BMW. It brings a new model into an extremely popular segment and replaces one of the brand’s oldest cars. If there was a single car from BMW that you could label the least competitive in its segment, it has to be the X3. At least for the next few months.

Soon, the Bavarians will have a new little SUV (Sorry, SAV) of its own, to compete with its newer rivals. We’re excited to see and drive the new X3, as it will pack a lot of our favorite modern BMW features. Mainly, the 3.0 liter turbocharged I6 engine, dubbed B58 internally, that will make 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque in the X3 M40i. It’s the same engine that you see in the BMW M240i and it’s brilliant.

BMW X3 M40i1 830x608

But the model in question is the BMW X3 xDrive30d. This will be the larger diesel-engined X3, with a 3.0 liter turbocharged I6 diesel. It will pack 261 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque. This engine has ample torque, enough to probably make it almost as quick as the hotter M40i variant. This specific model also has an M Sport package, which gives it some more aggressive touches.

In these new photos, we see the upcoming BMW X3 xDrive30d roaming around public streets. We’re not sure what BMW is doing with it, because its development is essentially done. Which is why it’s not wearing any camouflage, as BMW has already debuted it, so we already know what it looks like. Still, though, it’s cool to see it live, on the streets, rather than in heavily edited stock, manufacturer photos.

BMW X3 M40i3 830x579

It looks good, the new X3. We’re excited to take it for a test drive and see how it competes with its newest competition.