Do you know what’s and where’s Arjeplog? Of course, you don’t know. It’s a small town that lies near the Polar Circle. More precisely, it’s around 35 miles south, which is still extremely cold, yet suitable for various car tests. According to guys from BMW, Arjeplog isn’t just suitable, but the perfect place for that job. Moreover, the manufacturer released some official spy shots of the 2018 BMW X3 while it was circling around the Polar Circle.
They claim that there is no better place for mechanical testing, while it’s pretty useful for ultra-precise calibration of the electronics. This would definitely have a great influence on crossover’s quality, especially on drive feel, which should be amazing because the 2018 X3 is definitely getting the amazing Dynamic Stability Control system.
The spy shots are pointing out that the new generation BMW X3 sports a number of styling changes. The exterior seems to have more dynamics now, which is due to a more aerodynamic hood and sloped roof. The particular model shows a production-ready face with all-new headlights and BMW’s signature kidney grille, while the rear hatch appears to have totally redesigned taillights and new exhaust layout. The carmaker has stayed short for interior photos this time, but we had a glimpse earlier, so we have a clue what’s going on inside. The crossover will feature a big head-up display at the center, while the new gauge cluster should be totally analog. It also seems that the producer plans to use better quality materials this time, so the 2018 BMW X3 should look incomparably better than the predecessor.
As we already announced, the next generation BMW X3 will switch the platform as well. The new CLAR platform will make the SUV lighter and larger, so except more space inside, the high-riding car will also improve efficiency. BMW’s powertrain department plans some serious changes for the next X3. The luxurious crossover will start with inline-4 units, but this won’t be all. They will add the impressive B58 modular 3.0-liter inline-6, as well as some diesel units and definitely a plug-in hybrid. The vehicle will step into the M division too. This will bring a “monster” under the hood, most likely the outstanding 4.0 twin turbo V8 mill.
BMW hasn’t said anything when we can expect the completely redesigned 2018 X3, but we think it will be introduced at this year’s New York Auto Show.
