BMW has recently updated its X5 and X6 SUV lineups, with revised looks, updated interiors and performance.
The cars will be launched in April, and will tentatively reach our shores closer to the end of the year.
The X5 is now sleeker thanks to slim slit-like headlights that incorporate arrow-shaped daytime driving lights and indicators. The updated grille is honestly not offensive, and dare I say fits well on the car, complemented by a redesigned front bumper that incorporates new air intake elements. Lots of options can opt for the car, including the BMW Iconic Glow illuminated front kidney grilles… if you are someone that likes it.
The X6 receives a similar design update, with an M Sport package now coming as standard. This means customers will get black trim pieces, M-specific side skirts and trapezoidal tailpipes.
Inside, the biggest tech update for both cars is the inclusion of BMW’s modern Curved Display. This display array consists of a 12.3-inch instrument cluster display and a 14.9-inch infotainment display, morphed into one smooth curve. The new SUVs also run the latest BMW Operating System 8 (iDrive 8), and each dashboard is now illuminated with an LED light bar.
In line with more sustainable powertrains, both cars feature new platforms, with the most groundbreaking one being a new X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid (PHEV). In this, a 3.0-litre inline 6-cylinder is paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 490bhp and 700Nm of torque.
Even with its SUV heft, it’s still able to do the century sprint in just 4.8 seconds. Plus, you actually get real-world EV use, with an electric driving range rated between 94 to 100km (WLTP).
The BMW X5 and X6 also feature a regular xDrive40i ICE variant, and this new rendition has been given a slight power boost. The newly released numbers are 380bhp and 520Nm of torque, which is an increase of 47bhp and 70Nm from before.
Spring for the flagship M50i trim, and a thumping new 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo engine greets you loud and proud. These puppies pump out 530bhp and 750Nm of torque, good for a 4.3 second 0-100km/h sprint.
Not only are they more powerful, but the new X5 and X6 are safer too. BMW has developed an updated driver assistance system suite with enhanced capabilities for the front-collision warning system, which can now reduce the risk of a collision with cyclists, pedestrians or oncoming traffic when turning off a road.
There is also now the optional Parking Assistant Professional, which allows the user to manoeuvre the car in and out of spaces up to a distance of 200 metres using the My BMW app.
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