Next generation 2019 BMW X5 to be unveiled internationally next month, launch next year

Team OD Updated: July 17, 2019, 02:50 PM IST

It has come to OVERDRIVE's understanding that the latest fourth-generation BMW X5 will be revealed officially, at least on the internet, next month. A physical unveiling might happen at either the upcoming Paris or Frankfurt motor show, but details are hazy at the moment. The car will be launched at the beginning of next year.

The present car has only been on sale for roughly three and a half years and is being replaced much earlier than BMW's usual product life cycle of seven to eight years. This is because the earlier X5's underpinnings were a heavy reworking of the second-generation car which went on sale in 2007. The new X5 will move to BMW's latest CLAR architecture which debuted with the latest 7-Series and is also found in the 5-Series and the upcoming 3-Series. The SUV version of this modular structure debuted with the recently launched X3 and will also be seen on the flagship X7 SUV next year. Another reason for the X5's expedited generation change is that it will help BMW streamline its manufacturing processes.

As with earlier generations of the X5, the new SUV will mimic the engine options seen on the 5-Series. This means a host of four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel motors. The range will likely start with an X5 30i with around 250PS and will go up to the X5 M which will pack the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 from the M5, with upwards of 600PS. An X5 M50i with a detuned version of the V8 will come first and hybrid four-cylinder cars will eventually be made available.

In terms of styling, spy images show the car to have grown in size as compared to the third generation car. The overall design is more aggressive with a prominent grille, slimmer headlights, aggressive bumpers and a more sculpted hood. The rear gets a longer tailgate and flatter bumpers.

Expect the new BMW X5 to be priced around the Rs 60 to 65 lakh when the car launches in India sometime next year. The BMW X5, though still dynamically superior to its rivals, has been facing stiff competition from the likes of the Range Rover Sport, Audi Q7 and the Volvo XC90. The new SUV will hope to match its rivals in terms of refinement and interior quality, while still being the preferred choice for those who are looking for an agile, responsive SUV.

Also see: BMW X5 Road Test Review Video