NEW YORK MOTOR SHOW: BMW refines X5 plug-in
'Detailed refinements' for BMW Concept X5 eDrive before it enters production next yearBMW has revealed an improved version of the Concept X5 eDrive, its first plug-in hybrid SUV, ahead of this week’s New York motor show.
First revealed in Frankfurt last year, the electrified X5 is based on BMW’s third-generation large SUV and follows the release of full-hybrid 3, 5 and 7 Series models, and the plug-in i3 and i8.
A showroom version of the plug-in X5 is expected to become available globally next year – including in Australia, where Mitsubishi has just released the first plug-in SUV.
BMW says the new prototype, which has undergone “a series of detailed refinements”, but its already-impressive vital statistics appear to remain unchanged.
The first electrified BMW model with all-wheel drive combines a 180kW turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a 70kW electric motor integrated into its transmission.
BMW says the result is 0-100km/h acceleration in less than seven seconds, electric-only mode for up to 30km and the ability to reach 120km/h only using electric power.
This is despite claimed average fuel consumption of just 3.8L/100km and CO2 emissions of less than 90g/km
The X5 PHEV almost matches the practicality of its purely petrol- and diesel-powered stablemates by offering the same 20/40/20-split second row of seats, and a flat cargo floor.
However, since its lithium-ion battery pack is situated under the rear boot floor, luggage space is slightly reduced and there are no third-row seats, making it strictly a five-seater like the Outlander PHEV.
Instead, the black velour-lined cargo compartment features a blue-illuminated transparent cover through which the high-voltage battery can be seen.
Subtle changes for the blue-themed New York show car include new Silverflake metallic exterior paint and a BMW i Blue colour for the car’s kidney grille bars, air intake bars and rear bumper insert.
There are also body-coloured wheel-arches, specially styled roof rails, exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels with a streamlined design and charging connector that, as with the i3, now lights up during charging.
Inside, the Concept X5 eDrive features light blue double-stitched seams for the exclusive Ivory White leather upholstery on the seats, door panels and dashboard.
Completing the unique cosmetic highlights are piano-black interior trims with blue accent strips, ‘eDrive’ lettering embossed on the head restraints, blue-hue ambient lighting and a blue-illuminated eDrive button.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
