BMW has sold more than 2.2 million units of the X5 “Sports Activity Vehicle” so far, and the company has revealed the 4th generation model to continue the success story.
Sitting on the Cluster Architecture or CLAR for short, the new X5 is significantly larger than its predecessor. Length has been increased by 36 mm to 4,922 mm, width by 66 mm to 2,004 mm and height by 19 mm to 1,745 mm. Wheelbase now measures 2,975 mm – up by 42 mm.
The design language is new to the BMW X models. The new X5 features powerfully sculpted surfaces, large kidney grille with one-piece surround, sharp character line, and rear lights with a three-dimensional form.
The grille has active air flaps for increased efficiency. BMW Laserlight with Adaptive LED Headlights are available as an option. Standard 18-inch light-alloy wheels round off the exterior looks. Also, the X5 is the first BMW model to be available with optional 22-inch light-alloy wheels.
Interiors get a new ‘BMW Live Cockpit Professional system’ which comprises of digital instrument cluster and a further developed iDrive system – both measuring 12.3-inch, fitted as standard. Other features include a new generation head-up display (7 × 3.5 inch) with 3D graphics.
The options list is big and includes Multifunction seats with massage function, four-zone automatic climate control, heated armrests, cooled/heated cup holders in the centre console, Panoramic glass roof ‘Sky Lounge’ with a 23 per cent larger glass surface, Ambient Air package for interior fragrance, 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, and rear-seat entertainment system with 10.2-inch touchscreen display.
The new X5 is also the brand’s first model that can be unlocked by the BMW Digital Key via a smartphone.
Powertrains
The new X5 is being launched with a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines. Heading the range is the xDrive50i (not available in Europe) with its new 4.4-litre V8 unit, delivering 340 kW/462 hp between 5,250 – 6,000 rpm and 650 Nm of torque between 1,500 – 4,750 rpm. The turbochargers are positioned in the “V” between the banks of cylinders.
There is also M50d powered by a 6-cylinder in-line diesel engine with a quartet of turbochargers (3.0L 400 hp, 760 Nm). A 6-cylinder in-line unit can also be found under the bonnet of the xDrive40i (3.0L 340 hp, 450 Nm) and xDrive30d (3.0L 265 hp, 620 Nm).
All engines are paired to an 8-speed Steptronic transmission that sends power to the all four wheels via rear-biased xDrive AWD system which is now able to split the torque between front and rear wheels as the situation demands. Power can be directed only to the rear wheels when all-wheel drive is not necessary.
Dynamic Damper Control with electronically controlled dampers are fitted as standard. First time in a BMW X model – two-axle air suspension that offers ride height adjustment of up to 80 mm, Integral Active Steering, Adaptive M suspension Professional with active roll stabilization can be picked up from the options list.
The X5’s differential lock at the rear axle provides noticeable enhanced agility, traction and directional stability when accelerating out of corners and in other dynamic driving situations, BMW said.
The two-piece split tailgate features hands-free opening and closing of both sections with optional Comfort Access. Automatic boot cover can be lowered electrically into load compartment floor. The capacity can be increased from 645 litres to a maximum 1,860 litres.
Driver assistance and safety
Driving Assistant Professional includes further developed Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Steering and lane control assistant, Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning, side collision protection, evasion aid, Crossing traffic warning, Priority warning and Wrong-way warning.
Emergency Stop Assistant is available for the first time; brakes the vehicle automatically if required, and steers it to the side of the road. Further systems include Parking Assistant with automated longitudinal and lateral guidance, Reversing Assistant, and Parking Assistant Plus which includes Surround View, Top View, Panorama View and Remote 3D View.
The new X5 will be built at BMW’s Spartanburg plant, United States. Market launch in November 2018.
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