It is significantly larger than its predecessor: Length increased by 36mm to 4,922mm, width by 66mm to 2,004mm and height by 19mm to 1,745mm and its wheelbase extended by 42mm to 2,975mm.
Its exterior has clear design language that is new to BMW X models, with powerfully sculpted surfaces and precise lines and a large BMW kidney grille with a one-piece surround.
Like its predecessors, the BMW X5 will be built at BMW Plant Spartanburg in the US. Its worldwide market launch will begin in November 2018.
The new V8 engine in the BMW X5 xDrive50i (not available in Europe) and a host of chassis systems making their debut in a BMW X model – such as two-axle air suspension, Integral Active Steering and the Off-Road package – enhance the car’s versatility, dynamic ability and comfort levels.
The highlights of its significantly expanded suite of driver assistance systems, meanwhile, are the Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Plus with Reversing Assistant.
In addition, the new BMW X5 hosts the unveiling of the BMW Live Cockpit Professional (fitted as standard), which allows the display and control system to be geared even more precisely to individual driver needs.
The new BMW X5 comes as standard with LED headlights, while BMW Laserlight with Adaptive LED Headlights can be specified as an option to optimise the high beam function.
Other new features designed to maximise well-being on board the BMW X5 include multifunction seats, cooled/heated cupholders, the Panorama glass roof Sky Lounge, Dynamic Interior Light, the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System (expected to be available from 12/2018), the Rear-seat entertainment Professional system with 10.2-inch touchscreen display and glass applications for selected controls.
Folding down the 40 : 20 : 40 split rear seat backrest increases boot capacity from 645 litres to a maximum 1,860 litres.
A third row of seats for two additional passengers can be ordered as an option.
The new BMW X5 also has a two-section tailgate for ease of loading. If the optional Comfort Access is specified, both sections can be opened and closed automatically and hands-free.
The optional two-axle air suspension allows the loading sill to be lowered. And the boot cover can now be lowered electrically into the load compartment floor.
The new BMW X5 will be available from launch with a choice of one V8 and three six-cylinder in-line engines. All will team up with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
The newly developed eight-cylinder unit under the bonnet of the BMW X5 xDrive50i delivers maximum output of 462hp and peak torque of 650Nm.
Meanwhile, the new BMW X5 xDrive40i is powered by a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine developing a maximum 340hp and peak torque of 450Nm.
A quartet of turbochargers allow the six-cylinder in-line diesel engine fitted in the new BMW X5 M50d to produce maximum output of 400 hp, while peak torque of 760Nm means the BMW M Performance model can call on a particularly forceful wave of power.
The BMW X5 xDrive30d also comes with a six-cylinder in-line diesel engine which in this case, develops 265hp and peak torque of 620Nm.
The X5 comes as standard with Dynamic Damper Control, while Adaptive M suspension Professional with active roll stabilisation and Integral Active Steering (making its debut in a BMW X model) enable extremely agile and dynamic driving characteristics.
The two-axle air suspension caters to anyone seeking greater ride comfort and also allows the vehicle height to be adjusted by up to 80 millimetres at the touch of a button or using the BMW Display Key.
Plus, customers can now order an Off-Road package – another new feature for a BMW X model.
Here, a separate button gives drivers the choice of four driving modes, allowing them to activate the ideal settings for the vehicle’s ride height, the xDrive system, the car’s accelerator response and transmission control, and the DSC system’s corrective inputs in preparation for driving on sand, rock, gravel or snow.
