Building on its current and highly successful formula, the 2014 BMW X5 Sports Activity Vehicle gets a
significant remake as the line enters its third generation. In addition to more
style, enhanced comfort/convenience/safety features and even better
performance, this focused makeover also includes the introduction of the first-ever
rear-drive X5 variant -- the sDrive35i -- which will join the existing
all-wheel drive xDrive35i, xDrive35d and xDrive50i models.
Visually, the 2014 BMW X5 adds new edge to the exterior which
can be most clearly seen in its recast fascia highlighted by bigger, bolder
twin kidney grille elements that now stretch all the way to the restyled
headlamps. Standard corner-following Adaptive Xenon main lights can be upgraded
to full LED counterparts while LED foglamps appear on all models. This is the
first BMW X model to get drag-reducing Air Curtains that help channel air
around the wheel arches and out through equally new Air Breathers located in
the rear portion of the front fenders. More dynamic character lines add
interest to the X5's profile while its restyled rear quarters boast thinner
3-dimensional LED taillamps, a more aggressive exhaust/lower valance treatment
and subtle new black Aero Blades that work with the roof spoiler to further
enhance the X5's aerodynamic profile.
In addition to its basic spec, the 2014 BMW X5 will offer new
xLine and Luxury Line trims as well as a more performance-oriented M Sport
package. Like other BMW models, each features its own unique exterior and
interior cosmetic/functional upgrades, including bespoke 19-inch standard and
20-inch optional alloy wheels. The 2014 X5's option roster also adds a pair of
Interior Design Packages. The Ivory White group nets Ivory White Nappa Leather
upholstery, an Atlas Grey leather dash and Fineline Oak Wood trim, while the
Mocha alternative brings Mocha Brown Nappa Leather, a Black Nappa Leather dash
and Fineline Pure Wood accentlng.
Inside, the 2014 X5's cabin continues to have seating for five
with an optional third row that ups the count to seven. A bounty of new
standards -- the latest version of BMW's iDrive controller with direct
character recognition capability, BMW Navigation with a 10.2-inch control display
monitor and Advanced Real-time Traffic, a full suite of BMW Apps, Mobile
Office, heated seats, a panoramic moonroof, and BMW Assist eCall with a 10-year
subscription -- add new charm to this spacious inner sanctum, as does its power
tailgate that now can now be both opened and closed by remote control.
Optional kit for the 2014 X5 also has been enhanced with the
addition of things like harman/kardon and Bang & Olufsen premium audio
systems, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment package, heated and fully
adjustable second-row Comfort Seats, 4-zone climate control and an enhanced
Head-Up Display. The extras roster also features the latest generations of BMW
Parking Assistant and Night Vision, Active Blind Spot Detection, Active Cruise
Control with Stop & Go, Lane Departure Warning, pedestrian and collision
warning with braking function and Rear-View and Surround View camera systems.
Motivation for the 2014 BMW X5 comes in three forms. The
standard engine in the sDrive35i/xDrive35i continues to be the familiar
3.0-liter/300-horsepower TwinPower Turbo inline-6 that also makes 300 lb-ft of
torque. However, the 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbodiesel inline-6 in the xDrive35d
is an all new engine that features a new variable-geometry turbocharger and
produces 255 horses with 413 lb-ft of torque. The range-topping X5 xDrive50i
gets an upgraded version of the 4.4-liter TwinPower twin-turbo V8 that adds BMW's
Valvetronic variable valve timing to the mix. That change pops its pony count
from 400 to 445 and moves peak torque from 450 to 480 lb-ft. All of the engines
are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with an efficiency enhancing
ECO PRO mode which is expected to help each version generate slightly to
significantly better EPA numbers -- although those figures won't be finalized
for some time -- as well as improved 0-60 mph sprint times.
Exceptional handling has always been a hallmark of the X5, and
this new iteration is set to further embellish that tradition. While nearly
identical in size to the current X5, the 2014 benefits from a redesigned unit
body that incorporates more high-strength steel to help trim a bit of curb
weight while creating an even stiffer foundation. In addition to its more
refined standard chassis tune and revamped multi-mode Driving Dynamics Control
programming, the 2014 X5 will be the first to offer BMW's Dynamic Handling
Package. Buyers of xDrive versions also can opt for the extra refinement of
Dynamic Performance Control. An Adaptive M Suspension also will be on offer as
part of the M Sport package.
The 2014 BMW X5 sDrive35i/xDrive35i, and xDrive 50i will be arriving in showrooms sometime during the fourth quarter, while the xDrive35d is set to turn up in early 2014. All will be manufactured at BMW's plant in Spartanburg, S.C. and pricing will be announced closer to their actual on-sale dates.
By Bob Nagy
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