BMW’s dive into the diesel market included not just the M550d xDrive, but the X5 M50d as well. Just like the M550d, the SUV version is powered by the 3.0 liter six-cylinder in-line diesel engine that delivers a total of 381 HP and a peak torque of 546 lb-ft. With this amount of power, the X5 M50d will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, while top speed is limited to 155 mph. Fuel economy has been reported at 37.7 mpg.
Compared to a standard X5, the new M50d will be distinguished by an optimized aerodynamic balance and enhanced driving pleasure. In the space reserved for the fog-lamps, the new model has received new air intakes joined by horizontal bars painted in Ferric Grey metallic paint and race-inspired air-channeling flaps that sit below the side air intakes to optimize the car’s aerodynamic balance at high speeds. The BMW kidney grille features titanium-colored vertical bars, while the exterior mirror caps are painted in Ferric Grey metallic. The car sits on a standard set of 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design, but there are alsooptional 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in Ferric Grey metallic.
The new BMW X5 M50d will go on sale in Germany on June 16, 2012 at a price of 82,300 euro ($106,500 at the current exchange rates).
The next generation BMW X5 was just caught testing for the first time a few days ago, but once the beast is let out of its cage, there’s no way it’s going back. Unfortunately, this round of testing still has the future X5 under extreme camouflage, but a few new details were still let out.
The next X5 is rumored to make its world debut in 2014 at the Detroit Auto Show and, like most of SUVs, will come forward with an improved fuel consumption and a reduction in weight of about 330 lbs. BMW will be achieving this with the use of all their latest technology.
A first for the X5 will be the availability of two new four-cylinder engines, but the most powerful version will still be powered by its usual 4.4 liter V8 engine. The only difference is that the V8 engine will feature improved figures and an improved fuel economy. A plug-in hybrid version has also been rumored.
More details will be unveiled in the coming months, so stay tuned!
The current BMW X5 went on sale back in 2006 and after what will end up being eight years, BMW will finally release a brand-spanking new generation X5 in 2014, and we were able to grab some spy shots of its first tests. The new model will be completely redesigned, much lighter compared to the current model, and powered by more fuel efficient engines.
It’s no surprise BMW will be working on their X5, considering Audi and Landrover have announced they will be focusing on lighter models for the future. BMW is matching these statements with a 330 lb drop for the new X5, compared to the current model, through the extensive use of aluminum. It will be offered with the company’s latest turbocharged engine in a smaller capacity and an improved fuel economy. The top version, however, will still enjoy its usual 4.4 liter V8 engine, but with improved figures. It has been rumored that BMW will also offer a hybrid X5.
In addition to the weight drop and engine modifications, the next X5 will also get a revised suspension, improved xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, and systems like lane departure warning and compensation, night vision, park assist, traffic sign recognition, surround view cameras, and active cruise control.
German tuning company, Vorsteiner ,has come out with a new aerodynamic package for the BMW X5M and if we do say so ourselves, the German tuning company has done it again.
Incidentally, the new X5M program comes a year after the company unveiled a similar program for the SUV’s big brother, the X6M. Coincidence, or they always appear to be busy this time of the year?
In any case, the addition of Vorsteiner’s new aero components give a fashionable touch to an already classed-up BMW SUV. Among the changes in tow include a new add-on front spoiler, a vented racing hood, and a new rear differ. What makes these materials unique from the rest of the X5M programs we’ve seen in the past is that the components are made from Carbon Fiber Autoclave Pre-Preg. This material adds more strength and durability to the material, yet retains the same high-class look that’s usually attached to anything Vorsteiner does. In addition, the German tuners also added a new set of alloy wheels to complete the SUV’s classy new look.
In terms of performance, Vorsteiner has yet to reveal details regarding any engine improvements for the X5M. Having said that, the high-powered SUV still has plenty of growl under its hood in the form of a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that delivers 555 horsepower and 500 lb/ft of torque. Those numbers are good enough for the SUV to hit 0-62 mph in just five seconds while also boasting of an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
BMW is preparing to recreate its entire X family and the new generation X5 is only part of the job. The BMW X5 was first launched in 1999, and 13 years later, is getting ready to enter its third generation in order to keep with the changing times. The car is rumored to make its world debut in 2014 at the Detroit Auto Show.
BMW will mostly focus on reducing the X5’s total weight and improving the final performance figures for its new generation. It is being rumored that BMW plans to reduce the car’s total weight by about 330 lbs, but it will still be offered with the latest technologies like a lane departure warning and compensation system, night vision, park assist, traffic sign recognition, surround view cameras, and active cruise control.
The new X5 will be offered with two new four-cylinder engines, and the most powerful version will still get a 4.4 liter V8 engine with improved figures and a reduced fuel economy. It is also rumored that BMW plans a plug-in hybrid version.
As for the exterior design, it will be more an evolution of the current car as opposed to a revolution.
Updated 01/13/2012: The next generation BMW X5 has been caught testing for the first time. Enjoy the spy shots!
Updated 01/20/2012: The next generation BMW X5 has been caught testing one more time, now during winter conditions. Enjoy!
