X5 gets new look, cabin and faster, cleaner engines

08/02/10

BMW revamps its luxury 4x4 to take on new rivals from Volkswagen and Porsche

BMW’s X5 is to get a new look, new engines and a more generous specification this summer. Each of three new engines will be up on power but will also go further per gallon. They will also emit lower levels of carbon dioxide.

The move comes as revamped versions of key rivals, the Volkswagen Touareg and the Porsche Cayenne, are about to get their first showing.

The entry-level xDrive 3.0 diesel now travels up to 38.2mpg overall and that’s a 3.3mpg improvement over the current 3.0. Carbon dioxide emissions, meanwhile, drop by 10% to 195g/km. Yet it now produces up to 245bhp – that’s a 10% hike in power.

The xDrive 4.0 and 5.0, which replace the existing 3.5 and 4.8 units, boast similar power increases, while reducing emissions and fuel consumption. New eight-speed auto transmissions are standard across the range.

The new cars get new front bumpers and headlamps, which have bright white LED ‘corona’ rings. The rear light clusters see changes too, featuring horizontal LED bars that enhance the car’s lines.

Larger exhaust pipes and a redesigned rear bumper complete the look. Inside, leather seating is standard on all models, while servotronic steering is now also fitted as standard. Prices for the new cars run from £43,980 to £58,175 when they go on sale in June.