Spied! BMW X3 M Caught Looking Production-Ready

Back in June, BMW took the wraps off the 2018 X3. At the time, we got a look at the base xDrive30i and the sportier M40i. But based on the latest spy photos we've seen, it looks like an even sportier X3 M is about to join the lineup.

Granted, we've heard for a while that an M-badged X3 was on its way, so it's not a huge surprise. But as far as we know, BMW hasn't officially confirmed that the X3 M is on its way. When it does land, expect the sportiest X3 to pack much more of a punch than the X3 M40i's 355 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. We've heard it will get BMW's new S58 engine, an upgraded version of the B58 inline-six found in the 340i and M240i. Expect about an extra 100 hp, bringing it to the 450-460 hp range.

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The X3 M will need every bit of that power if it expects to outperform its rivals. Back in April, Mercedes showed off the GLC63 with 469 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, as well as an S version that makes 503 hp and 516 lb-ft. You can also already buy a Porsche Macan Turbo with the Performance Packagewith 440 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque.

As you can see, BMW's got most of the M-specific bodywork covered, but you can still get a pretty good idea of what the new X3 M will look like. And other than more aggressive front and rear ends, you can see BMW's fitted this prototype with a big ole quad exhaust. The biggest changes, though, are likely more than skin-deep: suspension and powertrain upgrades that will set the X3 M apart from its more pedestrian stablemate.

Check out the spy shots in the gallery below.

Photo source: CarPix

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