BMW is about to launch its new X3 M, a mid-sized SUV and spy photographers have managed to capture the car in action before the reveal.

The photographs emerge from the race track in Nurburgring where the model is being tested at the moment. With the third generation X3, BMW will have another notable addition to its lineup. The SUV is poised to take on the Porsche Macan and the Audi Q5. It is expected to arrive in dealership stores by the mid of 2017. The product lineup is going to keep growing as the auto brand will not only launch the mid-sized SUV but will also bring the X2 and the larger X7. Anyone who enjoys large seven seaters can go with the X7 as it is designed to offer the best in-class space and comfort.

The automobile company is interested in adding a M performance variant to the X3. They already did it with the X5 M and this one will be designed on the same lines. In terms of design, the car isn’t going to undergo any radical changes. Instead, it will retain some of the elements from the second generation model. Despite the heavy camouflage, we can spot the extended side skirts, bumpers and sleek body of the SUV from these spy photos.

With a lower ride height, the car will have much better aerodynamics and controls. A new rear spoiler adds the style quotient to the model which now features an upgraded front bumper with air inlets. While BMW is yet to confirm the specifications of the model, new updates confirmed that they will most probably go with a 3.0-liter twin turbo straight six engine capable of producing up to 425 horsepower. It is constructed on the CLAR architecture which makes the car lighter than the second generation model.

The M performance version of the BMW X3 will be powered by a 3.0-liter tri turbo-diesel V6 engine which is already being used in the X5 model. The engine will be detuned so as to bring its performance to match the X3 architecture and its overall design. With months to go before the official launch, we will know more about the model at one of the upcoming auto expos. There is a possibility that BMW could talk about it at the Detroit motor show next month. We will bring those updates as soon as they announce it to the press including pricing and availability date.