Prototypes of the third generation BMW X5 have been spotted several times near the Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, U.S.A. and it is expected that BMW will introduce the upcoming X5 in 2014. According to the spy shots of the camouflaged BMW X5, the SUV will come equipped with a functional air vent. The design language of the upcoming X5 looks much sportier, featuring the same headlight treatment done in the new 3-Series; the headlights are merging with the kidney grilles. Both headlights and tail lights will get updated with new LED treatment.
The 2014 BMW X5 with its increased dimensions will be sharing the 5-Series platform, which will help in weight reduction of more than 100 kgs, providing the SUV with improved driving dynamics like better handling, strong performance, increased fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. Smaller, four-cylinder engines are likely to power the light weight X5 with turbocharged petrol and diesel options. The next generation BMW X5 is likely to go into production by August 2013.
The X5 was BMW’s first SUV, which made its debut in the year 1999 featuring four-wheel drive. The second generation X5 was introduced in 2006 with a torque-split all-wheel drive system known as BMW x-Drive. Currently, X5 offers two engine options in India, a 3.0-litre diesel engine producing 245 PS of power and 540 Nm of torque and a 4.4-litre petrol engine producing 407 PS of power and 600 Nm of torque mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This is a much needed update for the X5, as the current model looks lackluster as compared to its more contemporary rivals.
Source – BMW Blog