It's no secret that a next-generation BMW X3 M is coming. While we've seen camouflaged prototypes being put through their paces, our first look at the sporty SUV completely undisguised comes from an unusual source. Photos sent to us by our spy photographers show the production model pictured on the iDrive infotainment system.

At the front, the 2020 BMW X3 M sports a more aggressive front fascia with a black twin-kidney grille. There's also a new front bumper with large air intakes featuring honeycomb mesh inserts, a black bar above the central air intake, front fender vents, black M-style side mirrors, and more prominent side skirts. The high-performance crossover rides on sporty alloy wheels with a five-spoke design.

While we don't get to see production 2020 X3 M's rear end in the images, previous spy photos have revealed the model will have a modified rear bumper, a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system, and a more aggressive rear spoiler.

As well as giving us an early look at the 2020 BMW X3 M's meaner styling before covers officially come off, the spy photos also show the SUV's new digital instrument cluster. As you would expect, it looks identical to the one found in modern BMWs, with an X3 M designation positioned in the center. The cluster's speedometer tops out at 330 km/h (205 mph), though, which is probably optimistic.

Under the hood, BMW says the X3 M will pack a "newly developed straight six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving characteristics." If recent rumors about the 2020 BMW M3 are to be believed, the new X3 M could have a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six that produces up to 474 hp. A rumored Competition variant could even pack over 500 hp.

The engine will likely be paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and an M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Stiffer suspension and bigger brakes should also improve the handling. No word yet when the 2020 BMW X3 M will break cover, but we could see it debut at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show in March.