As of March 2014 a large selection of BMW M Performance parts will be available for all model variants of the Sports Activity Vehicle, giving the new BMW X5 an even more athletic look as it lines up at the start. Its powerful appearance can be further highlighted by means of a black decorative grid for the BMW kidney grille, a front splitter and exterior mirror caps in carbon, air ducting elements, a diffuser insert for the rear apron and side sill foils with M Performance inscription. For individual flair with a sporty touch in the cockpit, there is the BMW M Performance sports steering wheel with red central marking, gear lever with carbon surface, accelerator, brake pedal and driver footrest in high-grade steel and BMW M Performance floor mats. The product range in the suspension area comprises an BMW M Performance brake system with brake calipers finished in blue and 21-inch BMW M Performance light alloy wheels in Bi-Color finish.

The BMW M Performance Power Kit available from spring 2014 for the BMW X5 xDrive35i provides an increase in output which does not affect fuel consumption. A precisely modified engine control system puts peak output up by 15 kW/20 bhp to 240 kW/326 bhp. Maximum torque is likewise raised by 50 Nm to 450 Nm. The spontaneous response of the engine can now be felt even more intensely due to an optimised accelerator pedal set-up. This optimised performance is noticeable both when accelerating from standing and in terms of elasticity, and when the driving experience switch is set to SPORT mode it is accompanied by a striking engine sound Another option available for the BMW X5 xDrive35i is a BMW M Performance silencer system. All variants of the new BMW X5 can be fitted with M Performance tailpipe trim elements in chrome or carbon.

The new BMW X5 has already raised efficiency to a whole new level in the world of the luxury Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). BMW is using the New York International Auto Show 2014 to present what it sees as the logical next step towards bringing about a radical reduction in fuel consumption and emissions in the SAV segment. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive succeeds in fusing the familiar brand of driving pleasure generated by the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and a luxurious ambience enshrined within an interior offering tremendous versatility of use with a plug-in hybrid drive system. A conventional combustion engine works together in perfect harmony with the cutting-edge BMW eDrive technology to produce the brand’s hallmark sporty drive coupled with a significant reduction in fuel consumption, making it an impressive example of the effectiveness of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy. As a result, the car is able to drive on electric power alone at speeds of up to 120 km/h (75 mph) and for a distance of up to 30 kilometres (approx. 20 miles), while recording average fuel consumption figures of less than 3.8 l/100 kilometres (more than 74.3 mpg imp) in the EU test cycle.

The concept study underwent a series of detailed refinements in preparation for its appearance at the New York International Auto Show and is equipped with a drive system comprising a 180 kW/245 hp four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and a 70 kW/95 hp electric motor likewise developed by the BMW Group. The motor is supplied with power from a lithium-ion battery that can be charged from any domestic socket and has sufficient capacity to enable all-electric driving with zero local emissions for a range of up to 30 kilometres (approx. 20 miles). To ensure a particularly high level of crash safety, the high-voltage battery developed for the BMW Concept X5 eDrive is housed underneath the luggage compartment, whose everyday usability remains virtually uncompromised thanks to the 40:20:40 split-folding rear backrest and an almost level loading floor.

In addition to the settings that can be activated using the characteristic BMW Driving Experience Control switch, three driving modes can be selected according to requirements and the situation at hand: intelligent hybrid drive with an optimal relationship between sportiness and efficiency (AUTO eDrive), pure electric and thus local emission-free driving (MAX eDrive) and SAVE Battery to maintain the current charge level.

Majestic poise at its most sophisticated: dynamic, flexible, luxurious, plus zero local emissions if required.

Thanks to the BMW eDrive technology that has been specifically honed for this model as part of the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, the concept car brings a whole new brand of poise and assurance to the SAV segment. The formidable power reserves produced by its duo of drive units, its outstanding levels of motoring comfort and the optimised traction, handling stability and dynamic performance qualities over any terrain courtesy of BMW xDrive technology all endow it with the all-round sporty prowess typically associated with BMW X models, while its landmark efficiency blazes a trail for its rivals to follow. The ability to operate purely on electric power with zero local emissions, especially in city traffic, puts a whole new slant on the SAV driving experience that shows the shape of things to come. At the same time, the plug-in hybrid drive concept does not impinge in any way on the exemplary versatility offered by the Sports Activity Vehicle’s interior or its distinctly luxurious ambience. In short, the BMW Concept X5 eDrive shows itself to be supremely talented in every way, deftly bringing major advances in cutting fuel consumption and emissions into harmony with state-of-the-art functionality and everyday practicality that never fails to impress.

A number of understated styling touches have been meticulously incorporated into the exterior design to underline the groundbreaking character of the BMW Concept X5 eDrive. The kidney grille bars, air intake bars and the insert in the rear bumper are all finished in the BMW i Blue colour developed for the BMW i brand, for instance, creating a stunning contrast to the Silverflake metallic exterior paintwork. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive also comes with body-coloured wheel arches, specially styled roof rails, a connector for the charging cable which – as on the BMW i models – lights up during charging, as well as 21-inch light-alloy wheels in an exclusive, streamlined design.

To make sure that the styling of the luxurious passenger compartment echoes the highly sophisticated drive concept, light blue double-felled seams adorn the Ivory White exclusive leather upholstery covering the seats, door trim panels and dashboard. Further highlight features of the specially designed interior include the Piano Finish Black interior trim with blue accent strips, “eDrive” lettering embossed in the front of the headrests, ambient lighting with a blue hue, and an eDrive button that is also illuminated in blue. In the luggage compartment lined in black velour, a transparent cover – again illuminated in blue – affords a clear view of the high-voltage battery for the electric motor.

BMW eDrive in a Sports Activity Vehicle: intelligent hybrid technology promises outstanding efficiency and hallmark driving pleasure.

Electrification of the powertrain is a key component of BMW EfficientDynamics technology and allows BMW to unlock tremendous potential for reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The BMW eDrive technology developed for this purpose comes in various versions, each precisely tailored to the particular vehicle concept. Both the BMW i3, the first all-electric production vehicle from the BMW Group, and the soon-to-be-launched BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car are powered by BMW eDrive technology. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive now follows in the tyre tracks of the BMW Concept Active Tourer unveiled in 2012 by demonstrating how model-specific BMW eDrive technology can be employed in plug-in hybrid models from the BMW core brand.

This is the first time that BMW eDrive technology has been hooked up with the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive boasts the superior driving characteristics that stem from the permanent and fully variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear wheels. Regardless of the selected driving mode, the drive power generated by the electric motor, the combustion engine or the two units acting in unison is channelled swiftly and precisely to wherever it can be converted into forward propulsion most effectively. This allows the concept study to deliver all the qualities that SAVs are renowned for – superb traction and optimised handling stability in all weather and road conditions coupled with enhanced agility when taking corners at speed – in remarkably efficient fashion. The highly versatile and sporty driving abilities of the BMW Concept X5 eDrive are accompanied by average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of less than 3.8 l/100 km (more than 74.3 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of under 90 grams per kilometre.

Both driving pleasure and efficiency in the BMW Concept X5 eDrive are given an extra boost by an electric motor generating a maximum output of 70 kW/95 hp together with the instantaneous power delivery that has become a hallmark of electric drive units thanks to the high levels of torque available from the word go. The electric motor variant developed for the BMW Concept X5 eDrive as part of the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy also boasts sporty performance credentials, a compact design and optimised weight. The electric motor alone is capable of propelling the BMW Concept X5 eDrive to a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). With 250 Newton metres (184 lb-ft) of torque on tap from stationary, it gives the vehicle wonderfully spontaneous response that translates into thrillingly dynamic acceleration. It also works in tandem with the combustion engine to boost its power significantly whenever a quick burst of speed is called for. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive is able to complete the standard sprint from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 7.0 seconds.

The task of ensuring the engine and electric motor team up together to optimum effect is handled by the power electronics that were developed by the BMW Group and apply the same basic concept used in the BMW i cars. The power electronics combine a liquid-cooled inverter for driving the electric motor, supplying energy to the onboard electrical system from the high-voltage battery and for centralised control of the hybrid-specific drive functions into a single integrated system.

ECO PRO mode and all-electric driving: BMW EfficientDynamics à la carte.
As in other members of the current BMW production line-up, the Driving Experience Control switch in the BMW Concept X5 eDrive can be used to select not only the COMFORT and SPORT settings but also the ECO PRO mode that fosters a particularly economical driving style. This driving mode is programmed for highly intelligent hybrid functionality, whereby the energy management system orchestrates the interaction between engine and electric drive unit as the driving situation changes in order to maximise efficiency. As a further component of the BMW EfficientDynamics technology, a hybrid-specific Proactive Driving Assistant has also been included, which works together with the navigation system to allow the route profile, any speed restrictions and the traffic situation to be factored in as well for the purpose of drive management.

In addition to this, the driver also has the option of engaging the all-electric driving mode by switching from AUTO eDrive to the MAX eDrive setting at the push of a button. With the battery fully charged, the vehicle is able to cover a distance of up to 30 kilometres (approx. 20 miles) on electric power alone, which means zero local emissions. There is also a SAVE Battery mode, which can be selected to deliberately preserve the battery’s energy capacity. This might be the case, for example, if a longer journey is due to end with a final stage through urban traffic that drivers wish to complete in all-electric mode.

Everyday usability: flexible charging scenarios and impressive viability.

In order to capitalise as much as possible on the superior efficiency of its electrified powertrain, the BMW Concept X5 eDrive is designed as a plug-in hybrid, allowing its high-voltage battery’s energy levels to be renewed from any domestic power socket, a special Wallbox that can handle higher currents, or at a public charging station. The Wallbox Pro is designed for installation in the customer’s garage and offers complete ease of use as well as short battery recharging times, thanks to a maximum charging rate of 3.7 kW. It is controlled by means of a high-resolution touchscreen including proximity sensor, while LED light strips provide an additional indication of the charge status. The built-in load management facility governs the charging current in accordance with the current draw on the household electricity supply. The Wallbox Pro even makes it possible to use home-generated electricity, such as that obtained from solar panels. There is also a function for creating different user profiles and displaying the respective charging histories. On request, the corresponding data can be sent online, e.g. for billing purposes.

The high degree of flexibility drivers can enjoy when it comes to choosing an energy source is given an added boost by the charging cable that is carried in the vehicle. The battery unit is located underneath the luggage compartment, so that there is only a small loss of load capacity overall – the luggage compartment is able to hold two large suitcases or four 46-inch golf bags. The SAV’s excellent versatility – helped by the 40:20:40 split-folding rear backrest – has been fully retained, along with its ample sense of spaciousness and the impressive level of comfort offered to the occupants of all five seats.

Intelligent connectivity for yet greater efficiency.

Innovative functions from BMW ConnectedDrive assist with planning journeys in such a way as to maximise the amount of time spent driving on electric power alone. In the BMW Concept X5 eDrive, the current electric range thus appears as a numerical value in the instrument cluster. Intelligent connectivity enables the vehicle’s dynamic range display to constantly make allowances for any factors affecting the range, such as traffic conditions, route profile and driving style.

When route guidance is activated, the location of local charging stations is added to the selection of points of interest shown on the navigation map. Drivers are able to call up charging stations situated along the planned route or at their destination, while the system additionally notifies them of the charging time needed to fully replenish the battery’s energy levels. Furthermore, information graphics indicating the current operating status when engine and motor work together in unison, the impact of the driving style on vehicle efficiency and the fuel consumption history for selected periods of time can be shown in the iDrive operating system’s Control Display, along with other information.

Drivers are also able to view all information relating to the battery’s charge level and electric driving range on their smartphone. A Remote app from BMW ConnectedDrive that has been specially designed with electric mobility in mind even enables them to control the charging process from their phone. It also allows the vehicle to be pre-programmed whenever it is connected to an electricity supply: the heating and air conditioning systems can be activated remotely in this way to get the passenger compartment to a pleasant temperature ready for the start of the journey.

From May 14 to 16, 2014, the BMW Group will be displaying an extensive range of custom-designed special-purpose and emergency vehicles at the 14th RETTmobil trade fair in Fulda.

RETTmobil ranks as the leading European trade fair for emergency services and mobility, acting as an important information platform for paramedics, rescue services and firefighters, as well as public services, local authorities and trade associations. More than 450 exhibitors will come to Fulda to present their latest technologies and developments in the fields of emergency rescue, technical intervention, firefighting and disaster recovery.

As a leading manufacturer of premium cars and motorcycles, BMW also has decades of experience in developing and building special-purpose vehicles. In Fulda, BMW will present an extensive range of practical and purposedesigned emergency vehicles which meet highest standards not only in performance, practicality and safety but also in cost efficiency and fuel economy.

BMW emergency vehicles: customised functionality and performance.

BMW is presenting a total of six different models at this year’s RETTmobil, beginning with an attractive and eye-catching exhibit at the main entrance to the show: a BMW M235i paramedic vehicle. Highlights at the trade fair stand itself include paramedic vehicles based on the new BMW X5 xDrive30d and on the BMW X3 xDrive20d, and a BMW X1 xDrive20d fire command vehicle.

Finally, the BMW Group is also exhibiting a BMW 325d Gran Turismo covert emergency vehicle and the new BMW R 1200 RT motorcycle.

BMW X5 as a fast, high-performance emergency vehicle.

When every second counts, a powerful engine and optimal handling are crucial qualities in an emergency vehicle. The new BMW X5 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 6.2* l/100 km [45.6 mpg imp]; combined CO2 emissions: 164–162 g/km) is a natural choice for the job. Equipped with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system and 8-speed Steptronic transmission, this Sports Activity Vehicle is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line diesel engine which combines impressive performance with high efficiency. Peak output of 190 kW (258 hp) and powerful peak torque of 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) ensure that this paramedic vehicle wastes no time getting to the scene of an emergency. The special advantages of this model include its high seating position and precise, light-action steering. Further plus points are the outstanding spaciousness, extensive interior adaptability and an automatic tailgate which allows emergency equipment to be quickly accessed. Amongst other things, the new-generation BMW X5 boasts an extended engine line-up that includes a new entry-level version, the BMW X5 sDrive25d (combined fuel consumption: 5.7–5.6* l/100 km [49.6–50.4 mpg imp]; combined CO2 emissions: 151–149 g/km).

Further information on BMW emergency vehicles can be found on the internet at www.bmw-authority-vehicles.com.

The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M (fuel consumption combined for both models: 11.1 l/100 km (25.5 mpg imp); CO2 emissions combined for both models: 258 g/km)* see BMW M GmbH setting the pace once again in the high-performance Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) segment. When the previous generation of the two cars arrived in 2009, it was the first time the high-performance character distilled by BMW M GmbH had been transplanted into an all-wheel-drive BMW X model. The result was class-leading dynamics. The new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M pull no punches in writing the next chapter in this success story with another significant step forward in dynamic excellence, emotionally rich M design and outstanding efficiency.

The new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M combine the characteristic features of the successful BMW X family – exclusivity, robustness, agility and everyday usability – with the commitment to high performance that defines an M car. The latter is resoundingly highlighted by the cars’ impressive performance figures. Both models complete the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.2 seconds in conjunction with the standard eight-speed M Steptronic transmission.

Innovative engine technology.

The new M TwinPower Turbo engine for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M is the most powerful unit ever developed by BMW for an all-wheel-drive vehicle. Boasting innovative M TwinPower Turbo technology with a pair of TwinScroll turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, VALVETRONIC and High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, the 4.4-litre V8 produces maximum output of 423 kW/575 hp between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm. That represents a four per cent increase over the predecessor models. The step up is even clearer when it comes to the power development of the new engine. Peak torque has been boosted by 70 Nm (52 lb-ft), which equates to a rise of 10 per cent. Its 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) can be enjoyed across a broad rev range between 2,200 and 5,000 rpm.

At the same time, fuel consumption of the new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M in the EU cycle has been cut by 20 per cent – from 13.9 l/100 km (20.3 mpg imp) to 11.1 l/100 km (25.5 mpg imp). CO2 emissions are likewise
down by more than 20 per cent, to 258 g/km. The two models accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.2 seconds through the standard eightspeed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).

Powerful looks and exclusive equipment.

With their striking use of forms, the new BMW X5 M and new BMW X6 M clearly flag up their sporting ambitions. With their exteriors painted fully in body colour, both models cut a low-slung figure on the road, while mixed tyres showcase their sporty track width and lend extra credence to their premium perception. Additional exterior design modifications, moreover, elevate the M models even further than before from the standard BMW X5 and BMW X6. Large air intakes at the front end, side gills with a model badge and Air Breathers, signature M exterior mirrors in twin-stalk style, a typically M fourtailpipe exhaust system and a rear spoiler (for the BMW X6 M) give them a standalone look M fans will immediately recognise. Setting the seal on this exclusive range of features are M-specific 20-inch light-alloy wheels with mixed tyres or forged 21-inch M light-alloy wheels (optional).

The high-quality interior impresses with its well-thought-through combination of sporty features, exclusive materials and flawless workmanship. The M instrument cluster, M leather steering wheel with aluminium gearshift paddles and M gearshift lever – which works in the same way as the familiar
M Double Clutch Transmission – are complemented by electrically operated M sports seats for the driver and front passenger, an M driver’s footrest and the optional Head-Up Display which, in addition to the standard system, also includes an M-specific display with gear indicator, rev band and shift lights. New BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M customers also have the choice between various options exclusive to the M models, such as 21-inch M light-alloy wheels, Merino full-leather trim and M multifunction seats. And there’s also a choice of two new and exclusive M paint finishes.

Look, it jumps! BMW’s fourth-gen SUV goes for a little workout

This isn’t the new, fourth-generation BMW X5 SUV. It is a prototype version of the new, fourth-generation BMW X5 SUV, which is set to be revealed later on this year.

And, as you can see, it likes to jump around. BMW has released a set of images showcasing the gruelling training regime its new SUV is undertaking to make sure it’s fighting fit. Yeah, we’re gonna need a montage.

Apparently, the next X5 will feature “new suspension and chassis systems” that allow the SUV to adapt to whatever terrain you throw at it, “be it snow, sand, rocks or gravel roads”. Should also work exceedingly well on that other terrain of ‘massively-potholed-and-congested-road-to-my-child’s-school’.

We’re told the new X5 has tested at BMW’s winter centre in Sweden, on gravel tracks in South Africa and in America’s deserts. It’s even been on a high-speed circuit in Talladega and at that Other Scary Racetrack in Germany. Name escapes us.

Those last couple of places give an insight into just how important pointiness is to the new BMW SUV. Indeed, BMW says adaptive M suspension and ‘integral active steering’ will be offered for the first time on the X5 with the new generation.

The very first X5 of course, kind of set a standard for how a big, heavy SUV can bend physics to its will, with many other carmakers following suit. These days everyone’s going on about sporting ability in their 4x4s.

Stay tuned for more…

BMW is offering just 350 of these X5 Black Vermilion Edition models in the United States, and the limited-edition package gives the luxury SUV a blacked out appearance with bright red accents. They're scheduled to start arriving in September.

Each X5 Black Vermilion Edition is finished in Frozen Black Metallic paint. Their kidney grilles have red vertical slats, and the adaptive LED headlights are darkened to match the blacked-out look. The M Sport package is standard, a $5400 option, and includes the Shadowline black trim along with more aggressive front and rear bumpers. The limited-edition SUVs are equipped with Orbit Grey 22-inch wheels and red M Sport brake calipers.

It's based on the X5's xDrive40i model, meaning it has a 335-hp turbocharged inline-six under the hood paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. In our test, a 2019 model reached 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. The Black Vermillion Edition comes with an M Sport exhaust system.

Red flows into the black interior as well with piping and stitching on the front and rear seats and binding on the floor mats. And there's a special edition logo on the lid for the cupholders. The glass controls for the gear selector, start/stop button, and drive mode selector, typically a $650 option, come equipped along with carbon fiber trim and an Alcantara headliner.

The 2022 BMW X5 Black Vermilion Edition is available to order now starting at $83,295, which is $20,600 more than the xDrive40i model on which it's based, but it's nearly fully loaded. And it's only $500 cheaper than the 523-hp twin-turbo V-8–powered X5 M50i model, but much more exclusive.

The BMW X5 mid-size luxury crossover SUV has been around since 1999 and holds the major honor of being the first Bavarian SUV – or “Sports Activity Vehicle” (SAV), as the German maker likes to call its high riders. No worries, the sleeker yet less practical X6 sibling is not below its dignity, as the five-door coupe-SUV is, in turn, the harbinger of the sports activity coupé (SAC) niche.

As far as the X5 is concerned, now people can snatch its fourth iteration (G05 international, also G18 long wheelbase version for China) while the X6 fans must contend with ‘only’ the third G06 generation after their debuts in late 2018, and the middle of 2019, respectively. But now, what are a few months apart in the grand scheme of things? That is what BMW probably thought, and ultimately decided both refreshed models deserve an ensemble presentation of the 2024 model year upgrades.

First, let us take the elephant out of the china shop, or at least part of it. This is because BMW has (at least partially) refrained from bloating the grille hardware on the X6 whereas the X5 was not that lucky. Sure, depending on your POV, maybe that’s for the better, and the loser is the X6, who knows? Anyway, one thing is for sure. Both come with “new design details, expanded standard equipment, electrification across the board, and advancements in digital technology.”

For example, the 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid has more power and EV range, with up to 483 hp and 516 lb-ft (702 Nm) of torque, plus an estimated electric-only range of up to 40 miles (64 km). Additionally, all ICE versions for X5 and X6 benefit from 48V mild hybrid technology that adds 12 hp and 147 lb-ft (199 Nm) of torque for both inline-six and V8 models. Even better, the X5 M60i xDrive and X6 M60i xDrive mill is a new S68 V8 engine generating 523 hp and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm), which enables both models to sprint to 60 mph (96 kph) in 4.2 seconds, according to preliminary BMW data.

Now, let us also talk about the competition in the United States, as some of the base MSRPs have also arrived along with the updated goodies. The X5 sDrive40i is $65,200 (plus $995 destination and handling for all subsequent prices), the X5 xDrive40i goes for $67,500, and the X5 xDrive50e PHEV can be had from $72,500 whereas the X5 M60i xDrive is at least $89,300.

Meanwhile, the X6 xDrive40i goes for $73,900 and the X6 M60i xDrive is at least $93,600. Those quotations compare well against the $72,200 Porsche Cayenne or $80,700 Cayenne Coupe, plus the $81,200 Mercedes GLE Coupe and $90,700 Maserati Levante, for example. But the “well-rounded” GLE remains a better deal, at least on paper, when starting from $57,700.