6 Things We Need To Know About The New BMW X5 and X6

BMW’s newest X5 and X6 might have gone way beyond minor nip and tuck, but first impressions still lean towards the cautious end of the spectrum. While prices are still unknown before its global launch in Q2 this year, we’d expect local units to be highly dependent on variants specced for the local market. It’ll be interesting, given that there are now two official BMW dealerships in Singapore, which variants will land on local shores. These 6 key facts about the latest X5 and X6 should trigger your curiosity…

Slimmer eyes, illuminated nostrils

New headlight units now have a 35-millimetre slimmer outline. Matrix LED headlights with adaptive control and BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling high beam, plus M Shadowline lights, are included on the options list. Six-cylinder variants of the X5 will feature illuminated kidney grilles, but it remains to be seen if they will meet LTA’s legal requirements.

There’s M Sport, and also M Sport Pro

All X6 variants will be equipped with M Sport package as standard, while it’s an option on the X5. That means a brawny bodykit to go along with darker inserts all round. M Sport Pro, reserved only for range topping variants, builds on M Sport foundations, adds matte black trims, dark chrome tailpipes and red or blue brake calipers.

BMW Curved Display, finally

Arguably the most predictable update given that the 3 Series received this treatment mid last year. Equipped with BMW Operating System 8, there’s now a more streamlined cabin as with most modern BMWs. A 12.3-inch information display sits behind the steering wheel, and a 14.9 inch control display dominates the centre console. iMax-style display measures identically to the BMW iX we featured earlier last year.

Adaptive suspension now comes as standard

It’ll be tough to shrug off the inherent heft of luxo-barges. BMW engineers gave it a go nevertheless, with modified anti-roll bars tuned for improved response and long distance comfort. These will be standard fare even for base-spec haulers. High-specced models of X5 and X6 will feature adaptive M suspension. Even an active steering setup will come as standard, although it can be opted for other variants if you tick the adaptive M suspension Professional package. Beware, it can be a trigger-happy affair…

Mild hybrid tech for all

This across-the-board application of electrification comes in the form of an electric motor integrated into the transmission. This motor generates an output boost of up to 12bhp and 200Nm of torque, helping the combustion engine to deliver a smooth, dynamic drive along with high efficiency.

There’s a new PHEV option, but only for the X5

While it remains to be seen if Singapore will receive the X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid, a WLTP range of up to 110km from its fully charged 25.7 kWh battery could sway prospective buyers of the i7 who still prefer assurance of proven ICE propulsion if called upon. Other variants for both X5 and X6 include the xDrive30d that can summon a beefy 670Nm on request, inline 6 cylinder-powered xDrive40i and a range topping 530bhp M60i xDrive.

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