The new generation of the mid-size luxury SUV debuted last year and we can expect the first update on the 2022 BMW X5. The German carmaker will definitely refresh the vehicle and the first renders are available. Images are showing two big vertical kidneys on the grille. The highlight feature split the opinions of enthusiasts. While some are looking forward to seeing it, others think it is too much aggressive. Still, the BMW is not going to be afraid of radical changes, so the render could be a teaser by the manufacturer.
Cosmetic changes are the priority and the engine lineup will remain the same. At least, the existing units are going to be back. Besides the current squad, the iX5 electric SUV is also possible. Still, this is a far-fetched story, since we are still looking for a debut of a smaller iX3. Nevertheless, in the future, the mid-size SUV will become the EV. But, it is not going to happen with the 2022 BMW X5.
Image credits: Autoevolution
Specifications: 335-525 Horsepower
The 2022 BMW X5 will offer three standard configurations. The base SUV is using a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, which is good for 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. On this setup, you can select the front-wheel drive and it is the only trim where the AWD is not standard. Both versions on the base version will return 23 mpg combined. An eight-speed transmission is standard all across the lineup.
If you need more power, the xDrive50i is packing 456 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. To achieve this, engineers had to install a V8 under the bonnet. It resulted in more power and torque. All-wheel drive is standard, as all the fans can guess from the name of the version. That is not all from the 2022 BMW X5. Engineers prepared a special twin-turbo setup that will enhance total outputs, including a towing capacity, which raises to 7,200 pounds. The M50i setup is good for 525 hp and 553 lb-ft of twist. According to tests, this model can accelerate 0-60 in less than 4 seconds. But, there is a version of the BMW X5 that can do it better.
2022 BMW X5M (+Competition Package)
The same 4.4-liter V8 is used for the 2022 BMW X5M version. This time, the SUV is squeezing the maximum power from this unit, reaching 600 horsepower. Again, an 8-speed gearbox and xDrive are there, but the company also adds special sport suspension to enhance the ride. Furthermore, the X5M is getting a cosmetic treatment with a moonroof, a power liftgate, unique wheels, and a few badges. Buyers willing to spend even more on the highest performance can purchase the Competition Package that will add another 15 ponies and drop the 0-60 mph time to 3.5 seconds.
2022 BMW X5 Facelift Changes
Usually, companies are trying to make the grille wider and their cars more aggressive. BMW is coming with a different approach. The fresh kidney grille on the Series 4 Coupe introduces a radical change with the horizontal position. That was enough to start the rumors and fans didn’t waste time to make the first renders. The styling looks like something we could see on the new 2022 BMW X5, but there are a lot of questions about it – the affection to aerodynamics is the major one.
The interior will also be under reconstruction. The mid-size SUV is already very spacious, with the three-row layout as optional. But, BMW is always looking forward to improving the offer. One of the downsides was the lack of Android Auto. Fans will definitely want to see this service included in the 2022 BMW X5, but we don’t have any clue of this actually happening. Also, the German carmaker is working on a high level of autonomous drive. These features are going to be available with the iX5. Compared to the main rivals, Audi and Mercedes, the X5 is on the line with Q7 and GLE. The self-driving technology will challenge other luxury carmakers from the same country.
2022 BMW X5 Release Date and Price
In the US market, Mercedes and Audi are not the only rivals. There are also Lincoln Aviator, Cadillac XT6, and Volvo XC90. The best-selling vehicles are coming from Japanese manufacturers – Acura MDX and Lexus RX. The 2022 BMW X5 will be more expensive, and it could be the main reason why it is not going to be among best-sellers. On the other hand, the SUV offers more at the base trim, than many other vehicles in some mid-range packages. There are also optional upgrades with more power, and the Competition edition for the X5M will make the SUV one of the most potent in the market. More details about the redesign will appear in 2021 and the release date is expected in the second half of the year. After the update, the price might go up a bit.