Exterior changes are fairly minimal for the upcoming X5, but we can expect it to feature BMW’s curved interior displays
Images of BMW’s updated X5 midsize SUV have emerged online from what looks to be a launch event of the vehicle.
As is the case with most BMW LCI updates, most recently seen with the 3 Series, exterior changes to the new X5 are minimal from what we’ve seen in the pictures that were first posted by Instagram user ‘cochespias1’. We can expect to see more on the inside when it officially makes its debut.
Though an official date hasn’t been given for the updated X5’s arrival, we can expect to see it in either late 2023 or 2024, where it will face competition from its traditional rivals in the Audi Q7, the Mercedes-Benz GLE and the Volvo XC90.
The updated X5 looks to be wearing a more streamlined front end. Credit: cochespias1
Given that the X5 is already making appearances behind closed doors around the world, we can expect to see the model revealed in the coming months, with a new SUV potentially hitting the market next year.
What changes can we expect for the BMW X5?
From these leaked images, it’s clear that the headlights have been slimmed down, giving the front end a more streamlined look over the outgoing model. The same goes for the bumper, which has been mildly redesigned.
It’s clear that BMW designers have taken some inspiration from the recently launched X1 in the headlights, with an aggressive shape and bold daytime running lights.
Despite this, the large kidney grilles look to have stayed the same size, avoiding going the way of the new 7 Series, or M3/M4 pairing.
Larger and more aggressive taillights can be seen in the leaked images. Credit: cochespias1
The X5 in question isn’t an M-Sport model, so the air intakes on the bumper are small, and none of the trimmings have been blacked out.
It’s a similar story at the rear, with updated taillights that look to be larger, and make use of a redesigned housing.
Any interior changes?
Though the leaked images don’t give us a look into the cabin of this updated X5, there has been much speculation that it will get the same dual-screen iDrive 8 set up as the iX, with the recent update to the 3 Series and 2 Series coupe also introducing this more modern setup
The iDrive 8 infotainment system is also in the BMW iX electric SUV
If this is the case, we can expect to see a pair of curved 12.3-inch screens stretched across the dash, angled towards the driver.
What about beneath the bonnet?
The X5 in the leaked images looks to be wearing an xDrive40i badge, meaning that it’s powered by a 3.0-litre petrol straight six engine, which makes 250kW/450Nm in its current form.
Six engine options are currently available on the X5 in Australia, ranging from the xDrive25d with 170kW/450Nm through to the X5 M Competition with 460kW/750Nm from its twin-turbo petrol V8.
The updated range-topping X5 models (M60i, X5 M) are expected to get the new S68 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine after first making an appearance in the current X7 M60i.
Keyword: 2024 BMW X5: LCI facelift leaked showing fresh front and rear end design, curved touchscreens expected