BMW has given its X5 and X6 large SUVs a major mid-life facelift, with revised looks, updated interior and upgrade drivetrains; tentative Singapore arrival Q3

MUNICH, GERMANY

BMW has announced a major mid-life update for its X5 and X6 large SUVs, with both models featuring revised looks and a major upgrade to the interior and tech. The cars will go on global sale in April, with a tentative Singapore arrival date due some time in the third quarter of this year.

Externally, the X5 now gets slimmer headlights that incorporate arrow-shaped daytime driving lights, that also double as indicators. They are complemented by a mildly updated grille, as well as a redesigned front bumper that incorporates new air intake elements. Matrix adaptive LED headlights are available as an option, as is the BMW Iconic Glow illuminated front kidney grilles.

The X6 gets a similar design update, but it also now has the M Sport package as standard. This means it gets a large black lower bumper intake, and the styling package is complemented by M-specific side skirts and trapezoidal tailpipes at the rear.

Inside, the biggest change for both cars is the inclusion of the BMW Curved Display, which has been progressively rolled out on BMW’s recent new models recently. It consists of a 12.3-inch driver information display, combined with a 14.9-inch infotainment display, combined into one large curved screen. The car also now runs on the latest BMW Operating System 8, and the dashboard now incorporates an illuminated light bar with a graphic denoting the model (X5 or X6).

BMW has also updated the drivetrains for both cars, with the most significant one being the introduction of a new X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid. It features a 3.0-litre inline six paired with an electric motor, for a combined output of 490hp and 700Nm of torque, allowing it to go from 0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds. Electric driving range is rated at between 94 to 100km under the WLTP cycle.

The regular X5 and X6 xDrive40i models have also been given a slight power boost, and the units now produce 380hp and 520Nm of torque, an increase of 47hp and 70Nm from before. The flagship X5 and X6 M50i models meanwhile get new 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo engines that pump out 530hp and 750Nm of torque, good for a 0-100km/h sprint time of 4.3 seconds.

BMW’s smallest SUV has also recently been refreshed. Check out our review of the new X1 here!

BMW has also expanded the X5 and X6’s driver assistance systems, and they now come with enhanced capabilities for the front-collision warning system, which can now also reduce the risk of a collision with cyclists, pedestrians or oncoming traffic when turning off a road. There is also now the optional Parking Assistant Professional, which allows the user to manoeuvre the car in and out of spaces up to a distance of 200 metres using the My BMW app.

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