BMW starts testing X5 M facelift SUV on the Nurburgring circuit – Michmutters
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BMW starts testing X5 M facelift SUV on the Nurburgring circuit

BMW X5 M facelift

BMW X5 M facelift is likely to be introduced by next year. (Image: Autoexpress)

BMW has started testing its upcoming X5 M facelift SUV. It has been over a decade since BMW last slapped on the M-badge to its X5 SUV back in 2009. However, things are about to get interesting again now as the company was spotted pushing the new X5 M around the Nurburgring test track. The latest spy shots arriving from the UK suggest that BMW is working on a new X5 M, based on the upcoming facelifted X5 SUV.

Majority of the test car profile can be seen smartly hidden under thick sheets of camouflage, however some key details are still visible hinting at the remastered design of the SUV. At the front the car can be seen featuring a slimmer pair of headlight units. A similar design language was also seen on the company’s newly revealed 7 Series and iX electric SUV. The snout of the SUV can be seen sporting a new pair of kidney grilles with a more angular design. Also, the company hasn’t used any wider/larger grille design which has been a topic of debate among critics lately. Inside the new grille can be seen horizontal slats – a change from the vertical ones found on the existing model. Although, BMW has covered up details like a pair of fog lights and vertical cooling slats, the use of a reprofiled intake is evident.

(Also Read: BMW M4 Competition 50 Jahre M Edition launched)

The test prototype continues to ride on a set of 22-inch alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. The wheels are also the same kind as found on the current Competition car. Other than this, details such as X5 M’s roof spoiler and quad tailpipe setup remain the same as the outgoing model, however, thicker camouflage around this section hint that it could feature minor design change on to the diffuser. Another key change expected on the rear profile is the use of new tail-lights which could be updated from the current model.

On the inside, expect the new X5 to come with BMW’s new iDrive 9 infotainment system that has appeared on the new i7 as well as the iX electric SUV. This infotainment system features a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen beneath a single sheet of curved glass. The company will also provide the car with a redesigned dashboard to accommodate the new infotainment system.

Concrete details on the upcoming X5 M facelift’s powertrain will be unknown in the later stage. However, the current X5 M Competition is available with a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 producing 616bhp and 750Nm of torque. Th new X5 M is also expected to retain the same drivetrain, albeit more power could be on the cards.

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