2018 BMW X3 Release Date, Specs News: Compact Crossover Undergoes Rigorous Winter Testing in Official Images
BMW has released the first official images of the 2018 X3 as it undergoes rigorous winter testing in North Sweden so that it will deliver outstanding driving dynamics and reliability when it is introduced later this year.
According to the German luxury automaker, the upcoming compact crossover is undergoing testing in extreme weather conditions such as icy surfaces and remote roads to ensure optimal levels of both driving pleasure and safety.
Through this process, engineers are able to detect the vehicle's behavior and fine-tune settings via Driving Experience Control function and make precise adjustments for the driver-assistance systems like Dynamic Stability Control or Dynamic Traction Control.
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In the final rounds of winter trials, the 2018 BMW X3 drove around the small town of Arjeplog in North Sweden — which is just 35 miles south of the polar circle. Prototypes of the upcoming compact crossover had to endure extremely cold temperatures of minus 20 degrees, as well as ice and snow.
These conditions allow the testing team to observe the 2018 X3's steering, suspension and drive characteristics and make the necessary adjustments.
According to BMWBlog, the third-generation X3 will be built using a new rear-wheel drive flexible modular system. The use of lightweight materials such as high-strength steel will make the upcoming compact crossover about 220 pounds lighter than its predecessor. The new platform will also translate to a more comfortable and spacious cabin.
In terms of powertrains, the 2018 BMW X3 is expected to offer a range of four-cylinder and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The former will most likely be mated to a six-speed manual transmission while the latter will be mated to a new nine-speed automatic gearbox. All powertrain options are said to come with fuel-saving technologies.
Furthermore, BMW may also unveil a hybrid variant of the compact crossover with up to 300 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque.
The 2018 BMW X3 is rumored to make its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September before going on sale early next year.
