BMW adds plug-in hybrid to X5 line-up
Electrified vehicle combines low running costs with good performance
BMW has strengthened its X5 line-up with the reveal of a new plug-in hybrid version.
Called the X5 xDrive45e iPerformance, it comes as a direct replacement for the older xDrive40e – offering improvements over its predecessor in terms of power and refinement.
Powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 282bhp combined with an electric motor, the car’s total power output is an impressive 389bhp – 80bhp more than the older model. These power outputs mean that the X5 manages the sprint to 60mph in 5.4 seconds. An impressive 600Nm of torque means that there’s plenty of punch, too.
Despite the performance on offer, the X5 xDrive45e is capable of travelling around 50 miles on all-electric power alone, at speeds of up to 87mph. BMW also claims that the X5 will return 134.5mpg while emitting just 49g/km CO2. The X5 also benefits from a 69 litre fuel tank, giving it a better touring range.
Power is sent to the wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, while four-wheel-drive should give it good capability off-road.
All cars benefit from all-round air suspension with adjustable dampers, while four-wheel-steering will be available on higher-spec cars.
Though the batteries do take up some of the car’s luggage space – the xDrive45e is down 150 litres over a regular X5 – there are still 500 litres available with all seats in place, rising to 1,716 with the rear seats folded flat.
BMW has yet to announce a release date for the X5 xDrive45e iPerformance, though has said that market launch will be ‘in the course of 2019’.
