The all-new BMW X5 has been spied in testing for the first time. The all-new SUV is tentatively scheduled to be launched later in 2013 and will be the third of four SUVs BMW will be launching, refreshing or replacing before 2014.
Under the skin, the new BMW X5 will share its underpinnings with the new BMW X3, which has been a huge sales success in the UK since its launch in 2011. It will get a longer wheelbase and wider tracks, but will retain just two rows of seats, albeit with increased rear cabin space.
The double wishbone front, multi-link rear suspension system of the X3 will be retained for the new X5.
The biggest news under the bonnet will be a new four-cylinder diesel engine option that will give BMW a rival for the soon-to-be-launched, and sure to be popular, Mercedes ML250 CDI.
The model, potentially badged BMW X5xDrive25d, is likely to be powered by an improved version of BMW’s existing 204bhp twin-turbo 2.0-litre diesel engine, with increased torque output to compensate for the X5’s extra size and weight.
Elsewhere, the engine line-up will consist updated versions of today’s six-cylinder petrol and diesel units, with revised V8 petrol engines mainly aimed at North American, Chinese and Middle Eastern markets.
The new X5’s 2013 launch will be preceded in 2012 by a facelift for the controversial X6 coupe-SUV and followed in 2014 by the firm’s new X6-inspired, and X3-based, X4 SUV. All models will be built at BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina plant to provide even greater economies of scale than before.
Thanks to: Autocar
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