bmw confirms new x5 will keep v8 optionBMW pulled the sheets off the fifth-generation X5 this week.When BMW announced the redesigned SUV would borrow design and tech cues from the heavily electrified Neue Klasse line, a few folks naturally assumed the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 was headed for the scrapyard. That's a reasonable assumption given how hard the industry is sprinting toward downsized plug-in setups, but a corporate spokesperson confirmed to Car and Driver that an M Performance variant packing eight cylinders is locked in for a later release.To be clear, we are talking about an intermediate M60-tier option here rather than a full-bore, track-focused X5 M replacement, which remains unconfirmed for now.bmw confirms new x5 will keep v8 optionBuilding a modern luxury truck that can swallow gas, hybrid, and pure battery-electric drivetrains under one roof is a heavy packaging lift, but it saves BMW from alienating the buyers who still want traditional internal combustion noise.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe entry-level rigs will hit the market first with six-cylinder setups, and there is even an all-electric iX5 60 trim on the books. For the global markets outside North America, BMW is already showing off a hot inline-six plug-in hybrid badge called the M60e that makes a combined 603 horsepower, but it also carries around an extra 650 pounds of battery weight that actually hurts its zero-to-sixty sprint compared to the old V8 model.Keeping a pure, non-hybridized V8 option in the pipeline means buyers looking for throttle response over pure green credentials won't have to look elsewhere.Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
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