The all-new fourth-generation 2019 BMW X5 has been revealed, the premium SUV has bulked up slightly and will offer a raft new technology features.
Despite the larger X7 getting closer to launch, the new X5 has grown in length by 36mm to 4922 mm, width by 66mm to 2004mm and height by 19mm to 1745 mm. The wheelbase has been extended by a significant 42mm to 2975mm.
There is very little to differentiate the new X5 from the outgoing model, but it does link strongly to the current X3 with the large BMW kidney grille with a one-piece surround, dynamic roofline and rear lights that take on a three-dimensional form.
Interestingly, this is the first BMW model to be available with 22-inch alloy wheels which requires a box to be ticked on the options list.
On the inside, the new X5 will debut BMW’s new Live Cockpit Professional display and control concept (fitted as standard). The instrument cluster features a 12.3-inch digital display along with the latest iDrive software.
At some stage, buyers will be able to option third-row seating.
Four engines will be available from launch including a newly developed 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine capable of 340kW and 650Nm. Badged as the xDrive50i, BMW claims the range-topping engine can take the car from 0-100km/h in only 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 250km/h.
The xDrive40i will use a 3.0-litre inline six which is good for making 250kW of power and 450Nm of torque. It’s no slouch, hitting triple figures in 5.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 243km/h.
There are two diesel units, starting with a 3.0-litre 195kW/620Nm inline six turbo-diesel found in the xDrive30d. The spec sheet states 6.5 seconds is required to reach 100km/h while the top speed is an adequate 230km/h.
Finally, the X5 M50d will get power from a quad-turbo 3.0-litre diesel capable of 294kW and 760Nm. It is rated to sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds and has a top speed of 250km/h.
All X5 variants get an eight-speed automatic transmission fitted as standard.
BMW has upgraded the xDrive all-wheel drive system, the brand says it can now distribute torque more efficiently between the front and rear axle while featuring a rear-wheel bias.
When it comes to off-road driving, BMW is taking up the X5’s capability even though most owners will conquer nothing more than the local grammar school car park.
This is the first X model to be offered with an optional Off-Road package that brings two-axle air suspension, under guard protection at the front and rear, plus specific displays in the instrument cluster. There will also be driving modes that cover sand, rock, gravel or snow.
With the air suspension fitted, the X5’s height can be adjusted by up to 80mm to reach an unladen ground clearance of 214mm.
Local details are expected to be released closer to the X5’s Australian launch late this year.
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