BMW has taken the wraps off its perennial X5 SUV and the reinvention is definitely more evolutionary rather revolutionary. The 2014 BMW X5 SUV is the third generation of the highly popular car since its introduction in 1999, more than 14 years ago. Has it been that long? A new rear-wheel drive base model has been added to the line-up.
Stylistically, the new BMW X5 blends the obvious profile with the detailing of a regular 3-Series sedan. The new BMW X5 gains the 3-Series’ connected headlamps and distinctive BMW kidney grille. LED accent rings surround the headlamps and LED fog lamps sit below that. BMW says they’ve included unique air curtains to redirect air around the wheel arches and these work in tandem with air breathers located on the side of the car.
Around at the rear, the new BMW X5 gets a more streamlined look. LED tail lamps are standard, as are new “aero blades” that work with the roof spoiler to further reduce wind turbulence. He car retains mostly familiar proportions, with short overhangs, upright roof supports in profile. Interior wise, the new BMW X5 copies the company’s 3-Series. The dashboard features a 10.2-inch high-resolution screen with navigation and the climate control displays include black panel technology.
Interior materials are typical BMW; with wood, gloss black, and metallic elements available. Two interior design packages are available: the Ivory White package includes Ivory White Nappa leather upholstery, an Atlas Grey leather-wrapped dash, contrast stitching, and Fineline Oak wood trim; the Mocha package brings Mocha Brown Nappa leather upholstery, a black Nappa leather dash, contrast stitching, and Fineline Pure wood trim. Either interior design package can also be ordered with other trims.
A BMW M Sport performance package will bring with it an M-designed body kit, sports steering wheel, upgraded 20-inch alloy wheels and other styling additions; most notably, an M Adaptive Suspension. This being BMW, the new BMW X5 will offer optional equipment like active cruise control system; a ‘Traffic Jam Assistant’ system that provides a degree of autonomous driving at speeds below 40 km/h. This keeps the new BMW X5 at a pre-set distance from the vehicle in front, its active steering system will keep it in the centre of the lane.
In an attempt to curb fuel consumption it is little surprise a new rear-wheel-drive model will be offered for the first time ever on the new BMW X5, but xDrive all-wheel-drive system will most likely be fitted the majority of models bought. BMW’s 3.0-litre TwinPower turbo six-cylinder engine cranks out 225 kW at 5 800 r/min and 410 Nm of torque from 1 200 to 5 000 r/min.
The new BMW X5 will offer this engine in both sDrive35i (rear-wheel-drive) and xDrive35i (all-wheel-drive) configurations, and a sprint to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds will result. The X5 xDrive50i models will use a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 that includes BMW’s Valvetronic variable valve timing to develop 330 kW and 650 Nm of torque. The new BMW X5 benefits from an increase of 45 and 30 in each department respectively. As a result, 100 km/h will arrive in less than 5.0 seconds.
The diesel-powered xDrive35d with 190 kW and 560 Nm of torque reduces emissions, and gains the favour of a close-coupled NOx absorber catalyst and an SCR catalyst with urea injection just like you get on Mercedes-Benz’s S-Class. The diesel BMW X5 will hurl itself to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.
All models will use an eight-speed automatic transmission that now includes both launch control and ‘eco pro’ mode for more fuel efficient driving. Auto start/stop is standard across the line. Combined with a healthy weight savings the new BMW X5 should improve its fuel economy for all three engines.
Here is some BMW promo footage of the new BMW X5 strutting its stuff: