The BMW X5 has been given a design overhaul and has been updated to offer lower emissions and give increased performance.
On sale from June 5, three new engines will be launched for the xDrive30d, xDrive40d – replacing the xDrive35d – and the xDrive50i – replacing the xDrive48i. All of the new powerplants now meet EU5 standards.
The entry level xDrive30d has been upgraded, making it the first conventionally-powered luxury Sports Activity Vehicle to record a sub 200g/km CO2 reading. The engine consumes 38.2mpg on the combined cycle and emits 195g/km of CO2 – a 10 per cent improvement – yet produces 245hp, up 10hp on the previous xDrive30d. Acceleration to 62mph now takes 7.6 seconds – a six per cent improvement over the previous model.
The replacement of the twin-turbocharged xDrive35d with the new xDrive40d sees an improvement in emissions of 10 per cent, emitting only 198g/km CO2 while delivering 37.7mpg on the combined cycle. The performance of the car has also increased. The zero to 62mph time is now 6.6 seconds, down from 7.0 seconds, courtesy of a 306hp output, 20hp more than the outgoing engine.
Powered by the world’s first twin-turbocharged V8 engine with the catalytic converter located in the vee, the xDrive50i has an extra 53hp compared to the model it replaces, taking the total to 408hp. This leads to a lower zero to 62mph time of 5.5 seconds, an improvement of 1.0 second over the outgoing powertrain.
The BMW X5 will be mated to a standard eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission helps to lower the X5’s CO2 output and allows smoother shifting and greater driving dynamics.
The new 4×4 vehicle includes a number of exterior changes. Revised front bumpers with enlarged vents, to increase the air supply to the engine and brakes, and matt aluminium-look lower scuff plates and vent fins have been added.
BMW says new xenon headlights, with bright white LED corona rings, modernise the face of the car while the more centralised front fog lights complete the new front end and at the rear is a revised red light cluster, enhancing the lines of the car with horizontal LED light bars. Enlarged tail pipes, within a redesigned rear bumper, finish off the look.
Completing the updates is a raft of additions to the standard equipment list. As well as the new eight-speed automatic transmission, for the first time leather upholstery comes as standard across the entire X5 range. Xenon headlights will light the way for the entire range whilst Servotronic steering now comes as standard.
A wider range of high-tech options are available, including Lane Departure Warning, Active Cruise Control with ‘Stop and Go’ function, speed limit display and side-view cameras. Aesthetically, a new colour pallet is available.
