BMW takes the X5 and X6 seriously

Sometimes a facelift appears that requires a microscope to see the differences. Not in the case of the new BMW X5 and X6. Both the interior and the exterior of the fat Germans have been thoroughly revised. Other engines are also offered.

Almost five years after the presentation of the current generation of the BMW X5, the SUV is getting a facelift. It’s not as extreme as its bigger brother, the X7, but still a definite change.

Facelift BMW X5 versus pre-facelift BMW X5

Among other things, the double headlights of the X7 are omitted, but the lamps of the new X5 are narrower. The interior of these lighting units is also designed differently. The pre-facelift model of the BMW X5 still had hexagonal shapes, while the new model has more acute angles.

There are also different front bumpers on the updated X5. In addition, the grille has a different frame, which makes it stand out a bit more. The taillights also stand out. While the headlights have gotten thinner, the taillights seem to have gotten thicker. You have to find out for yourself whether it has gotten better or not.

The interior of the new BMW X5 and X6 has also undergone some changes. From now on it will also be big with these models Curved BMW display hoisted. This eliminates the roof that the previous model still had over the digital clocks. By the way, it’s still two separate screens disguised as one.

Fewer physical buttons in the new BMW X5 and X6

What some will see as a downside is that that spacious screen has bullied away a number of physical buttons. That’s not the only thing that’s disappearing. The “gear lever” was also reduced to a glass slider. It is reminiscent of a slightly fancier version of the shift lever in the Volkswagen Golf.

We just talked about the BMW X6. Most of these changes, like the flatter headlights, different bumpers and updated interior, also apply to the founder of SUV coupes. However, the rear lights of the new BMW X6 have remained the same.

Hybrids only

Perhaps one of the most drastic changes can be found in the engine compartment of the BMW. The X5 and X6 now come standard with a 48-volt hybrid system. These help the six- or eight-cylinder with 12 extra hp and no less than 200 additional Nm of torque. The electric motor is integrated into the transmission of the new eight-speed automatic transmission.

Fan of plugs? Then you’ve come to the right place with the X5 plug-in hybrid. From now on it is no longer called X5 xDrive45e, but xDrive50e. The model now delivers 490 hp and no less than 700 Nm. Sounds good, such a plug-in hybrid. Fast and sustainable, right? Unfortunately, this turns out not to be the case.

If that doesn’t help Mother Nature, then you might as well grab the new M60i. The V8 with two twin-scroll turbos now delivers (with the help of the new electric motor) 530 hp and 750 Nm of torque.

Unfortunately, we can’t yet tell you what the new X5 and X6 will cost in the Netherlands. It is known that the new models will be ready for delivery in the showroom from April. Until then, enjoy the photos below.

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