The third generation of the BMW X5 has arrived. Launched in 1999 for the first time, the 2014 BMW X5 renews the arguments for maintaining global leadership in the segment for years to come. New standards in terms of design, power, space, luxury and pleasure are the premises of this 3rd generation.
Without breaking in stylistic terms with the model that at the end of this year ceases to function, the Bavarian brand is preparing to launch a new BMW X5 next year. The final photos have just been posted on the internet and confirm our news at the beginning of the year. In this third generation, as we said, there is a stylistic continuity, evident in the elegant silhouette that is supported by athletically shaped wheel arches and strong horizontal lines.
Interested parties can now choose between two versions of equipment, Luxury and Sport, where they will be able to combine the exterior and interior characteristics according to their «lifestyle», either more dynamic or calm, with choices made to suit everyone. For an even more exclusive experience, various equipment packages will be available, including an adaptive suspension for comfort and an adaptive M suspension (more sporty) for driving pleasure.
Electric Power Steering for all model variants and as an option an active steering, already used in several models of the brand. The BMW Parking Assistant system will also be available, a function that, when activated, locates a parking space and automatically parks the vehicle.
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The increased range, the elevated driving position and the low-set instrument panel with horizontal lines that extends all the way to the door enhance the new BMW X5's sense of luxury and quality. The iDrive system is now, like the brand's latest models, with a large screen (10.25”) not fully incorporated into the dashboard.
The rear seats fold individually (40:20:40) and the trunk has a capacity of between 650 – 1870 liters depending on the use of the third row of seats. Automatic tailgate operation as standard and can now also be opened and closed by remote control.
Engines
At the launch of this new model, only three engines will be available: the BMW X5 xDrive50i, the BMW X5 xDrive30d and the magnificent BMW X5 M50d which uses a tri-turbo diesel in-line six-cylinder engine.
In December 2013, new powertrains will be introduced: the BMW X5 xDrive40d, BMW X5 xDrive35i and the novelty, the BMW X5 xDrive25d (4-wheel drive) and sDrive25d (with CO2 emissions of just 149 g/km and reduced consumption) will be added to the range.
To improve fuel consumption and reduce C02 emissions across the BMW X5 range, the Bavarian brand has reduced the total weight of the package by around 170kg and has worked on aerodynamics around the bodywork to reduce aerodynamic drag and increase penetration coefficient. Solutions that, combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and traditional EfficientDynamics measures such as the Auto-Start-Stop function and ECO PRO mode, allow the BMW X5 to achieve the EU6 classification (mandatory for 2015).
Regarding the engine of the BMW X5 xDrive50i version, it equips a 4.4 liter V8 TwinPower Turbo unit with 450hp, which combines two turbos with the precision of direct injection and the Valvetronic system. With 650Nm available at 2,000rpm, it reaches 100km/h in just 5 seconds, and a top speed of 250km/h with average fuel consumption of just 10.5l/100km, an improvement of 2l at 100km.
The BMW X5 xDrive30d manages to generate 258hp from a 3.0 liter inline 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine with variable geometry and common rail direct injection. Capable of delivering 560Nm from 1,500rpm and reaching 100Km/h in just 6.9 seconds. It reaches 230Km/h and has consumption in the order of 6.2l/100Km (1.2 liters to 100Km savings)
The standard carrier of the diesel engines will be the BMW X5 M50d version, equipped with a 3.0 liter engine with three high-pressure turbos, variable geometry and common rail direct injection, all this to extract 381hp of maximum power and 740Nm at 2,000rpm. This engine is capable of fulfilling 0 to 100Km/h in 5.3 seconds at the same time, according to the brand, consumes only 6.7 liters for every 100Km traveled. Stick with the presentation videos:
Closer look.
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Text: Marco Nunes