BMW has unwittingly let slip dozens of new details of its X3 off-roader - in a brochure issued to customers before the information is officially announced at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
The glossy tome confirms that the X3 will be launched in 192bhp 2.5- and 231bhp 3.0-litre petrol form when UK deliveries begin next May - and there is already a two-month waiting list.
Diesels will eventually include 2.0- and 3.0-litre models, both expected in September. Despite its small capacity, the four-cylinder 2.0-litre diesel should propel the X3 to 62mph from rest in around 10.0sec and on to 120mph, while still returning an impressive 40mpg.
The petrol 3.0i will put Land Rover's class-leading Freelander V6 to shame with 0-62mph in 8.1sec - 2.0sec quicker - and a maximum of 130mph (137mph with the optional sports pack). Performance comes at a price, though, with 23.3mpg average consumption and high 293g/km CO2 emissions.
At 4565mm long, the X3 should offer a spacious cabin, in addition to its 480-litre boot (109 litres bigger than the Freelander's).
Standard equipment is generous, with XDrive intelligent four-wheel drive, stability control, hill descent control, parking sensors front and rear,eight airbags, air-con, a CD player and cruise control.
The 3.0i gains metallic paint and a five-speed auto with Steptronic function, both optional on the six-speed manual 2.5i. Further options include a panoramic glass roof, satellite navigation, Servotronic steering and adaptive headlights.
Prices are set to start at around £25,000 for the X3 2.0d, with the range-topping 3.0-litre petrol and diesels coming in at £30-31,000.
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