BMW’s all-new 2019 X5 will be more capable off-road
than ever before, according to the German automaker. The fourth-generation X5 will introduce brand new
suspension and chassis systems, said to be virtually unique in this segment.
For starters, there’s a new Offroad Package, which is said to strike an
impressive balance between high ride comfort on the road, and off-road ability.
At the press of a button, you can prep the car for either snow, sand, rocks or
gravel – surfaces already encountered by various X5 prototypes around the
world.
Another type of extreme test aced by the new X5 took
place at BMW’s high-speed circuit in Talladega, USA, as well as in Germany at
the Nurburgring. The 2019 X5 will boast the Adaptive M Suspension Professional
and the Integral Active Steering system, which is also being offered for the
first time.
Reports
have suggested the model could be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show which kicks
off in October. This seems possible as there are only two major auto shows left
this season and BMW will likely use the Los Angeles Auto Show to introduce the
new X7.
Regardless of when the X5 is unveiled, the model
will have a more aggressive appearance as it will feature a new front fascia
with a massive grille. Previous spy photos have also shown the crossover will
have larger air intakes and more distinctive headlights with LED daytime
running lights.
The overall shape will remain largely the same but
the crossover will grow in size and feature a more accommodating cabin.
Speaking of the interior, the model will be more high-tech as it will have a
new digital instrument cluster and the iDrive 7.0 operating system which
promises to be more intuitive and customizable. Drivers will also find a new
steering wheel, updated switchgear and a modern center console featuring a host
of controls.
BMW has been tight-lipped about performance
specifications but the model is expected to be offered with an assortment of
turbocharged petrol and diesel options. On the petrol side, there could be a
2.0-liter four-cylinder with around 248 hp (and a 3.0-liter
six-cylinder developing approximately 335 hp. We can also
expect a 4.4-liter V8 and an X5 M with 592 hp.
If that wasn’t enough variety, we can also expect a
plug-in hybrid variant as well as a handful of diesel engines with outputs
ranging from 228 hp to 394 hp.