BMW X3 hybrid tipped to come

"Obviously, if a hybrid was available in right-hand drive we would look at it," BMW Australia spokesman, Piers Scott says.

The company currently builds 'active hybrid' versions of the X6 and 7 Series but they are only available in left-hand drive. Eventually an X3 hybrid is tipped to join the petrol and turbo-diesel models in some markets. Other details are emerging about BMW's newest X-factor car.

The company is drip-feeding photos and some specifications of the new X3 ahead of its launch at the Paris Motor Show in September. Although wearing psychedelic black and white camouflage, the distinctive styling of the current car has mellowed into a smoother shape that is slightly bigger than the current car.

The second-generation X3 is slightly bigger in every respect than the current car, which translates into more interior and luggage room. BMW has listened to customers too and lifted the quality of interior materials around the cabin. Scott says the lifestyle off-roader is expected to hit local BMW showrooms around next February. "Certainly in the first quarter of next year," he says.

Although specifications are yet to be confirmed for Australia, it is likely to be available initially with a range of turbo-diesel and high-powered petrol six cylinder engines. Unlike the X1, the X3 will have standard four-wheel drive mated to a new ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

All X3s get BMW's Xdrive all-wheel drive system, which directs torque variably to the front wheels through an electronically controlled multiplate clutch. BMW also plans to shift production from the Magna-Steyr plant in Graz, Austria, to its Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, which also builds the X5 as well as X6 petrol and hybrid models.