Prices up for new X5

BMW has upped prices across the board with its updated X5, reflecting the introduction of a new range of petrol and diesel engines as well as the inclusion of a new eight-speed auto transmission.

A slight change in hierarchy also means the least expensive X5 is now the base turbodiesel version rather than the 3.0-litre petrol six-cylinder.

If you were expecting the latest X5 to stand out like a beacon compared to its predecessor, you are bound to be disappointed. The visual changes amount to little more than revised front and rear bumpers, new LED corona rings around the headlights and redesigned taillights.

Manufacturer's list prices are up from a bit less than $4000 on the now entry-level xDrive30d turbodiesel to the six-cylinder petrol xDrive35i, which approaches $20,000 more.

The entry xDrive30d uses an upgraded turbodiesel six-cylinder producing 180kW/540Nm compared to the outgoing model's 173kW/520Nm, improving fuel consumption by 15 per cent to an average 7.4L/100km.

The new xDrive35i uses twin turbocharging to up power from 200kW/315Nm to 225kW/400Nm, yet drops fuel consumption averages from 11.7L/100km to 10.1L/100km.

The xDrive40d turbodiesel bumps power over the outgoing xDrive35d from 210kW/580Nm to 225kW/600Nm, while the xDrive50i adopts the 300kW/600Nm twin-turbo petrol V8 from the BMW X6. The normally aspirated xDrive48i V8 produced 261kW/475Nm.

BMW's press release doesn't tell us how the new, smaller-capacity but far more powerful twin turbo 4.4-litre V8 compares on fuel consumption, although it does point out it's 1.1sec quicker than the old xDrive48i to 100km/h. It is up to speed in merely 5.5sec.

Australian X5s bring previously unavailable features including BMW's Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and lane departure warning. Carryover features include BMW's Head-up Display, adaptive headlights, high-beam assistant, park distance control and a reversing camera.

BMW's Active steering system is optionally available, as is Adaptive Drive which uses variable dampers to improve handling and minimise body roll.

The updated X5 is due to arrive in Australian showrooms next month. Check out our video footage of the facelifted BMW X5 on Carsales TV.

BMW X5 pricing, excluding dealer delivery, statutory and on-road charges:   
X5 xDrive30d $92,100   
X5 xDrive35i $103,900   
X5 xDrive40d Sport $113,300   
X5 xDrive50i Sport $133,400

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