Automakers are increasingly abandoning plug-in hybrids as they prepare to go fully electric, but BMW isn’t putting all of their eggs into one basket. That’s clear once again as spy photographers have snapped the redesigned X3 with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. aught wearing “Electrified Vehicle” badging, the prototype features a charging port on the front fender. However, we know this isn’t a fully electric variant as we can see an exhaust system hidden behind the rear bumper.
Putting that aside, the model adopts some
cues from the recently introduced X1. While the camouflage hides a number of
details, it looks like the model will have a nearly vertical front fascia like
its smaller counterpart. We can also see an X1-inspired lower air intake,
although the design seems a bit more refined.
Moving further back, there’s streamlined
bodywork and a more dynamic shoulder line. Other highlights include
flush-mounted door handles and a gently sloping roof. Furthermore, the X3
appears to have grown in size as both length and wheelbase seem more generous
than before. There isn’t much to see out back, but the crossover sports a
familiar rear spoiler and a license plate recess that has been moved further
down.
Powertrain details are still fuzzy at this
point, but the model is expected to offer ICE, PHEV, and EV options. That being
said, we can expect a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and three different
plug-in hybrid variants, according to rumors. The entry-level plug-in hybrid is
expected to have rear-wheel drive, while the other two could have all-wheel
drive.
