car news

In a closed room, we get the opportunity to get a sneak peek at the updated BMW X5. Potential buyers and other interested parties are also offered that opportunity. Currently, a hand-built example at BMW in the Netherlands is bivouacked in that enclosed showroom. Without incident daylight, the new gem is bathed in darkroom-like spotlights.

BMW X5 xDrive50e is new plug-in hybrid

Frontally, the X5 appears slightly wider and at the same time more elegant. Without being able to put our finger on it right now, because the big lines have not changed, nor is the so-called kidney grille of a different size. In the closed room, though, it is the illuminated version, called Iconic Glow, and with dark bars and black frames. In this configuration, it adorns the X5 xDrive50e with the M Sport Package Pro.

Narrower headlights

Surely the more elegant image is mainly in the narrower headlights. As a result, the front appears somewhat wider, also because the lamp windows are extended far around the corners. What a relatively small designing operation can do to an overall picture. Once again, it is very clear here. The new headlights are 35 mm narrower than before. The arrow-shaped daytime running lights “point” to the side of the body, and the outer elements also act as turn signals.

And the price of the BMW X5

The X5 xDrive50e is the plug-in hybrid successor to the outgoing xDrive45e. With its price starting at 95,512 euros, that xDrive50e is also the most attractive. After all, it is the starting price of the updated X5. But then you immediately get one of the most powerful versions. The combination of a six-cylinder in-line gasoline engine and an electric motor is good for a total output of 360 kW (490 hp) and 700 Nm of pulling power. Why is this version so cheap? Because the plug-in hybrid’s low average CO2 emissions yield low BPM, that’s why.

Up to 110 km purely electric

To notch those low emissions, the plug-in hybrid powertrain must have a lot going for it. Or rather, it should be able to drive considerable distances electrically, and the xDrive50e can do that. Thanks to a 25% larger battery pack than in the xDrive45e (now 25.7 kWh), up to 110 km can be covered electrically. The electric motor delivers a maximum of 145 kW (197 hp), so that’s quite a lot, too. With both engines combined and full throttle, the X5 xDrive50e accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Pretty fast for a car of this size.

Interior X5 most updated

You will recognize the updated X5 mainly by the completely different dashboard with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Operating System 8. The display consists of a 12.3-inch instrument panel behind the steering wheel, followed by a 14.9-inch Touch Control Display – together behind a one-piece glass surface. Thanks to the touch function of the latest display, the number of buttons and switches has been significantly reduced and the operation of numerous functions has been digitized.

Illuminated list in dashboard

Standard equipment now includes dashboard upholstery in Sensafin and an elegantly curved trim in refined wood. Another new feature is the Ambient Light Bar with LED lighting, which is integrated under the trim on the front passenger side. The illuminated model indicator is integrated into it.

Comfort seats

Comfort seats for driver and front passenger can be ordered as an alternative to the sports seats included in the standard equipment and upholstered in Sensafin. Other options include BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery, active seat ventilation and a massage function. Those comfort seats adorn the closed room in this X5 xDrive50e.

When is the updated X5 coming?

Production of the updated BMW X5 will begin in April at the plant in Spartanburg, United States. At the time of writing, it is not yet exactly clear when it will be in the showroom at Dutch dealers. Later this year is expected, in the second half of 2023.