[cuisine]

First photos of third generation BMW X5
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/01...w-2014-x5.html



Believe it or not, six years have passed since BMW introduced the second iteration of its X5 crossover, which means its replacement is not far away. In fact, if BMW keeps in line with its usual product cycle, we should see the third generation of the X5 arriving sometime as early as next year.

In the meantime, our eagle-eyed spies captured an actual prototype of the next X5, codenamed F15, while returning from testing in Germany.

The new generation of the mid-size crossover looks like it will keep the current model's silhouette adding a new face that will no doubt be inspired from BMW's latest offerings, along with a fresh styling for the rear end.

There are no photos of the interior (yet) but as usual, the cabin will utilize BMW's most recent design elements.

The new X5 is expected to ride on a heavily revised version of the 5-Series sedan's platform architecture while BMW's engineers will focus on reducing the crossover model's weight through the use of lighter materials.

It's still early to know specific details about the engine lineup, but it's a safe bet to say that the new X5 will be offered with a similar range to the current model including straight-six turbocharged petrols and diesels, a force-fed V8 petrol for the xDrive50i, while the X5M and an Active Hybrid model will also be added later on.

BMW is also working on more powerful diesel model that will be marketed under its M Performance subrand that slots between the regular and M-badged vehicles, more details of which will be announced at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

[jl215]

Better pics, showing the front kidney grilles


http://www.xbimmers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=636908

[Fatddyslam]

Hmmm....it looks like it may have a similar front-end treatment to the 3-series in terms of the front headlights connecting to the kidney grill. I really hope it's more progressive than it is evolutionary. The current X5 is quite the handsome SUV even given it's aged design.

[IcedG35]

As with the previous generation, BMW did a grat job with the facelift. Its still the freshest looking design in the segment. The only thing lacking is the interior, which is a little bland compared to newer BMW's. Subtle exterior changes and a new interior is hopefully what's in store.

[jl215]

First 2014 X5 video - http://www.xbimmers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=636908

[jl215]

First interior photos:

http://www.xbimmers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=644916

[Ascariss]

Judging from the sketch it appears that the 3er-like grill and headlights are a new design scheme for bmw. Not sure how this will work on the x5 vs a sedan.

[IcedG35]

the high gloss black panel that covers the whole center dash, as in the 5/6/7 really makes the interior look much more upscale versus most manufacturers who put plastic surrounds around all buttons. other than that the inteiror looks liek an enlarged 5 series interior, whcih shouldn't be of much surprise to anyone.

[CosworthKid]

I hope they don't try to blend the X5 styling too closely to the 5-Series and 3-Series. The current X5 is probably the only BMW SUV i really like, the X1 to me looks mostly wrong, the X3 is good but it depends on the color for me and the X6 while impressive its too heavy looking and i don't like the front as much

[boston]

Originally Posted by CosworthKid

I hope they don't try to blend the X5 styling too closely to the 5-Series and 3-Series. The current X5 is probably the only BMW SUV i really like, the X1 to me looks mostly wrong, the X3 is good but it depends on the color for me and the X6 while impressive its too heavy looking and i don't like the front as much

Surprising that the X3 is almost as long as the original X5. Wonder how closely this X5 and the Range Rover Sport will compete.....