Don’t expect too many big changes, but some new tech is definitely on the table
by Robert Moore, on LISTEN 02:34The facelifted fourth-gen BMW X5 is expected to enter production in April of 2023, just four years after being introduced in 2019. With more than a year left to tweak the facelift for the standard X5, it’s quite surprising that we’re already laying eyes on prototypes for the updated, range-topping X5 M. Since the X5 M is still at least 2 years out of being revealed, it shouldn’t be a surprise that there’s a lot of camo, a lot of padding, and a lot of mystery.
This prototype was spotted cruising around public roads in Germany, so it’s not exactly venturing too far away from home. Since this is a facelift, only the front and rear ends are covered as that’s where the changes will occur. In the front, we’ve been able to make out the new headlights. These will be the same shape and size as those on the current model but will be a bit sharper and feature a new LED layout. The grille has also been slightly modified and will ultimately sport a mild design change. You can’t make out the new design yet, but the front fascia will be the recipient of a decent update as well – probably including larger corner air intakes and a revised air dam.
The rear end, on the other hand, should see an updated fascia as well, but it won’t change nearly as much as in the front. The rear diffuser should see some updates, although it’ll be all for visual enhancement as there’s no need to revise the aerodynamics on a facelifted model. The taillights will be the same shape and size but will feature a new matrix for an added burst of freshness. Finally, BMW has left the roof spoiler alone, but it could end up being marginally reshaped to tie the whole facelift together.
Curious to know how the X5 M drives? Check out our driven review of the current model!
We weren’t lucky enough to get any shots of the interior this time around, but the 2024 BMW M5 should come complete with BMW’s latest iDrive 8 infotainment system. It’ll take inspiration form the revised 8 Series range, which means the dual-screen layout with a larger screen for the instrument cluster and new customization options for the interior.
As for the powertrain, the X5 M won’t see any updates. The 4.4-liter V-8 will carry over with as much as 617 horsepower (X5 Competition), and this would be a good time to buy if you don’t want to have a hybrid model – this is likely the last X5 M that won’t feature some kind of electrification.
| BMW X5M Competition | Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S | Porsche Cayenne Turbo | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4.4-Liter V-8 | 5.5-Liter V-8 | 4.0-Liter V-8 |
| Fuel | Premium | Premium | Premium |
| Horsepower | 617 HP | 577 HP | 541 HP |
| Torque | 553 LB-FT | 561 LB-FT | 567 LB-FT |
| Transmission | 8AT | 7AT | 8AT |
| Drive | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Towing Capacity | 1,653 LBS | 7,200 LBS | 7,700 LBS |
| Fuel Economy | 13/18/15 | 14/18/15 | 15/19/17 |
| Curb Weight | 5,425 LBS | 5,225 LBS | 5,056 LBS |
| Fuel Capacity | 21.9 Gal | 24.6 Gal | 23.7 Gal |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.7 Seconds | 4.1 Seconds | 3.9 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 177 MPH | 174 MPH | 177 MPH |
