This is the new BMW X3 drifting merrily through the snow

BMW has released pictures of the next-generation X3 testing north of the Arctic Circle. The company has not revealed any information on the new model.

The X3 is a big deal for SA because it will replace 3 Series production when BMW begins manufacturing the new SUV at its plant in Rosslyn, near Pretoria. The new X3 is likely to debut in 2018.

BMW has not released pictures of the replacement for the 6 Series testing, leaving it up to the professional spies. The rumour is that BMW will kill off the 6 Series and replace it with a revival of the 8 Series nameplate, expected to make its debut towards the end of the year.