On the same day, two luxury SUVs emerged from Germany – Audi launched their brand-spanking-new Q8, and now BMW have confirmed that a fourth-generation of the X5 is coming soon. They’re both awesome, but it’s clear to acknowledge that Bimmer have paid special attention to the in-car tech.
Plus, it has a more ‘rough around the edges’ look, in comparison to the sleek and smooth lines of the Q8. To be honest, the appearance isn’t too dissimilar to the previous version of the X5, but now there’s a new grille with much wider gaps between the strips. Of course, it comes standard with the adaptive LED headlights, but now you have the option to purchase BMW’s Laserlights.
On the rear of the car, they’ve introduced a hatch that’s divided into two sections in a bid to make loading small items easier. In terms of the interior, it’s still pretty much the same as the third-generation. A pair of 12.3-inch screens sit nicely on the dash which are for both the instruments and the infotainment system.
Optional extras are plentiful, too – massaging chairs, glass gear leaver and a Bowers & Wilkins audio system with 20 speakers and 1,500-watt output to name a few. If you have a big family and desire a larger SUV, then don’t worry, because BMW are implementing a third row of seats which will become available in December.
As for the specs, buyers will be presented with two options. The first, is the x5 xDrive 40i with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six that racks up a massive 335-BHP and hits 60-MPH in a mere 5.3 seconds. The second, is the x5 xDrive 50i with a 4.4-liter V8 that generates 456-BHP and smashes 60-MPH in just 4.6 seconds. Both specs significantly outshine the Q8.
The word on the market is this X5 should be a real smooth ride, with it boasting dynamic dampers as standard. Although, there is the option to upgrade to the Adaptive M Suspension Professional which comes with rear-wheel steering and active roll stabilization. On top of that, you can add air suspension which empowers you to adjust the height of the car by as much as 1.6-inches either way.
Additionally, safety features such as lane departure warnings, blind-spot monitoring, pedestrian monitoring, front & rear collision warnings and city collision mitigation come already equipped. If you want to go all out and purchase the Active Driving Assistant Professional, you’ll also get automatic lane changing, traffic jam assist and collision evasion aid.
If the fourth-generation X5 has peaked your interests, mark November on your calendar, because that’s when it’s going to arrive in the US. Pricing won’t be announced until closer to the time, though, so continue saving!