Thanks a lot, X6: BMW is Contemplating a Smaller X4 Crossover

Could a smaller Sport Activity Coupe (SAC) be coming from BMW? According to Autocar, the answer is "yes". Fans of the X6 should be pleased. Everyone else? Sorry.

Said to be called the X4, it would be to the X3 what the X6 is to the X5: a four-door, four seat coupe-ish thing based more around style than functionality.

Considering that the X4 would share the X3's platform, expect similar power trains to the X3. That means the most recent versions of BMW's inline-sixes: naturally aspirated, turbo'd, and (hopefully) diesel.

The fact that this is being discussed begs the question: with the X4 a possibility (due to the "success" of the X6), could an X1-based X2 coupe be far behind, and if yes, what are your thoughts? Have your say in the comments section below.

By Phil Alex

*All photos: BMW X6

»»  read more

Bavarian Cops Testing BMW X3 Police Car

The Bavarian State Police has begun testing a prototype version of the BMW X3 fitted with all the necessary equipment to patrol the German highways. The all-wheel drive X3 police car is powered by a 218HP turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine and comes equipped with more LED lights than a Las Vegas Christmas tree show. You can check out the rest of the pictures right after the jump.

»»  read more

VIDEO: All-New 2011 BMW X3 Spied with Less Camoluflage

With the European market launch of the new X1 small SUV, BMW is now rushing the second-generation of its larger X3 SUV towards production.

Spied here testing on the streets of Germany, the video reveals that the new X3 gets a more sloping front hood and larger front air intakes, while the crossover's profile is cleaner and resembles the crossover's smaller brethren.

It also appears that the new X3's dimensions have grown a bit allowing some breathing distance between itself and the X1.

Based on the next 3-Series platform architecture, the new X3 will come with all-wheel drive, though it is possible that the Bavarian automaker may also offer rear-wheel drive only variants of the compact SUV.

Depending on the market, engine options will include four- and six-cylinder diesel and gasoline units topping out with the 306HP 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six petrol. A new hybrid version is also expected to be on offer.

The new X3 will be produced alongside the X5 and X6 models at BMW's Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, with sales expected to start in 2011.

Video via: Bimmerpost

»»  read more