BMW X5 Hybrid

On the inside, BMW has tried to keep things as simple and subtle as possible. As the X5 Hybrid here is based on the previous generation version, it misses out on the oomph factor which makes it look less modern as well.

The three-spoke steering wheel with center round boss is borrowed from the sporty M-range of BMWs. The instrument console is fully digital, however, it looks not so appealing due to boring fonts. The trapezoidal touch screen infotainment screen at the center of the dashboard features display for the iDrive as well as audio system. The central console looks posh, thanks to the nice flowing brushed silver finish at the center of the dashboard, which separates the dashboard and center console and house AC vents as well. Talking about the center console, it looks too simple with a range of buttons.

BMW offers the interior cabin in two upholstery options – Terra Dakota leather and Black Dakota leather.

With the new X5 Hybrid, BMW tried to make the big SUV look much smarter but still pertaining to the bold essence which was in abundance in all the previous forms of the SUV. The new version of the X5 Hybrid features a lot of details which are common to the BMW range but still make the SUV look distinctive.

The double kidney grille indeed has grown in size, but horizontally, which has made the X5 now look wider than the previous versions. As seen in all the other BMW models, the headlamps are placed adjacent to this front grille which tries to maintain the continuity of the front fascia in a balanced form. With full LED headlamps and daytime running lights surrounding them, the headlamps score marks when it comes to the bling factor.

The side profile, however, looks less dramatic and follows a rather conventional path with simple lines and creases. We would have definitely loved to see the presence of bigger roof rails, smarter alloy wheels and prominent wheel arches with side body cladding, all of which could have raised the appeal of the X5 Hybrid even more.

The rear profile of the X5 Hybrid comes with a pair of full LED tail lights, and here, the rear bumper features large skid plates to make it look rough and go well with the SUV theme.

The BMW X5 has always had a reputation of being a driver’s SUV, thanks to its potential driving dynamics. With the X5 Hybrid, the BMW X5 continues to perform well on that front, as it features all the BMW’s active electronic driving aids, including the xDrive four-wheel drive tech as well as Dynamic Stability Control.

Powering the BMW X5 Hybrid is a combination of a 2.0-litre inline-four petrol engine and a lithium-ion battery. Coupled to the BMW’s standard 8-speed automatic gearbox, the powertrain in combined mode generates a maximum power output of 313PS and a peak torque rating of 450Nm. This powertrain alloys the X5 Hybrid to cover a 0-100kmph sprint in just 6.5 seconds, making it quite fast. At the same time, with a claimed fuel economy of nearly 33 kmpl, this SUV is incredibly fuel efficient as well.

The X5 Hybrid is equipped with safety features up to the brim, such as front, side and knee airbags, Active Driving Assistant with Surround View which includes Speed Limit Info, Frontal Collision Warning, Pedestrian Protection and City Collision Mitigation, BMW Assist eCall which includes Emergency Request (SOS button) and Enhanced Automatic Collision Notification, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Cornering Brake Control (CBC).

The X5 Hybrid available in Malaysia is in its previous generation, due to which it scores slightly less in terms of visual novelty. However, under the skin, it is highly advanced, thanks to the potent hybrid powertrain which offers both performance and efficiency of higher orders. At the same time, the great balance of performance and driving dynamics have been retained well in this variant of the X5 as well.