South Carolina-based spy photographer Palbay just spotted a prototype of the upcoming BMW G05 X5. Judging by this image, we might be looking at the top model in the new X5 lineup, which is likely to be once again the BMW X5 xDrive50i or maybe a new model, the X5 M50i. The test mule showcases production style wheels and kidney grille, along with an M Performance braking system and its typical blue calipers. The camouflaged front-end also hides an aggressive front spoiler with large air intakes, which are typically reserved for M Sport packages or M Performance Automobiles.
The new G05 generation of the X5 should be introduced during the second half of next year, as a major upgrade of the current F15 generation, including a change of platform. The new X5 will be based on the new CLAR platform, a modular architecture that will considerably reduce the final weight of all models thanks to the use of lightweight materials such as aluminum or CFRP, a compound that will be used for certain elements and reinforcements of the frame.
The BMW X5 will be available in sDrive40i, xDrive40i and xDrive50i guises when it finally arrives in the US. The 40i badge will bring a revised version of the B58 3-liter straight six engine which will be so changed that technically speaking it will be considered a new engine altogether. The B58TU will have 335 HP in models without the M Performance logo on them which is a 15 HP increase compared to what we’re used to today, on the 340i for example. Furthermore, the N63 4.4-liter V8 will also get a makeover, making it a new engine altogether due to its extensive changes. It will be making 465 HP and yes, it will be different from the one we have on the M550i model today, making the X5 a model without any legacy petrol engines in its range.
Moving away from the US market, where the fate of the diesel engines is still unsure, other countries will also get diesel mills offered under the hood of the X5 but they won’t be completely new as is the case for petrol. The base xDrive30d model will be using the B57 engine with 265 HP, the xDrive40d will have 320 HP while the M50d model will come with the new quad-turbo B57S mill with 400 HP.
With the G05 BMW X5, BMW has skipped the typical mid-cycle facelift and instead shorten the production of the current model in order to deliver a far improved SAV.
