BMW has given its big SUV a mid-life facelift with subtle tweaks to the exterior, revised standard specification and new, more powerful engines.
Since its launch in 2001 the X5 has been a huge success for the Bavarian car maker in Ireland but the recent recession and the change to a climate-aware society has made its popularity wane. So, BMW has decided to hit back with a facelift for the X5. The big news is the arrival of revised diesel and petrol engines to the range.
The entry level xDrive30d has an increased power output of 245hp - up 10hp - with CO2 emissions of just 195g/km. It returns a combined 7.4 litres/100km and accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.6 seconds. The twin-turbocharged xDrive35d is replaced by the xDrive40d, which sees power increase to 306hp (up from 286hp) with CO2 falling to 198g/km. Topping the range is the xDrive50i V8 petrol model - replacing the xDrive48i - with 306hp (up from 355hp) and emissions 292g/km (up from 289g/km). All versions have an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard.
On the outside, a revised bumper and xenon headlights with LED rings (now standard) give the X5's face a fresh appearance. A red light cluster encompassing LED light bars, a redesigned bumper including larger tail pipes completes the rear-end restyle. Inside, the cabin remains unchanged though leather upholstery is now standard. New options include lane departure warning, while side view cameras are now available along with some new paint colours to choose from.
The face lifted BMW X5 is now on sale with prices starting at €76,580.