BMW is giving us a sneak peak of its forthcoming 2011 X3 through a huge gallery of photos of the pre-production model. To keep the interest in the new X3 going, the Bavarian automaker retained some camouflage on the body and the dashboard. However, there are plenty of shots of the new X3 alongside the first generation of the model allowing us to visually compare the two vehicles.
Despite the camouflage, it is evident that the 2011 X3 adopts the less complicated and controversial styling language of the post-Bangle era BMWs such as the new 5-Series along with a more prominent double-kidney grille.
From the photos it also appears that the new X3 has grown in dimensions compared to the current model, thus allowing it to be better positioned between the X1 and X5 crossovers.
Riding on a modified platform of the next 3-Series, the second iteration of the X3 is also said to be lighter than the first model.
When it arrives in European showrooms after its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show this fall, the new X3 will be offered with a mix of four- and six-cylinder diesel and gasoline engines (depending on the market) including the firm's latest version of the 3.0-liter turbocharged petrol with 306-horserpower.
It remains to be seen which of these units will be available for U.S. consumption when the X3 hits retailers on sale on this side of the Atlantic either towards the end of 2010 or early next year .
