BMW updates 2024 X5, X6; now with all-hybrid powertrains

It's been almost five years since the BMW X5 underwent a full model change, and now the crossover is ripe for a mid-cycle refresh.

BMW has introduced the updated X5 and X6 with slight changes to its exterior. And in line with the manufacturer's efforts towards electrification, the popular crossover now features an all-hybrid powertrain lineup consisting of mild hybrids and an updated PHEV version.

Let's start with its looks. For one, BMW did not mess up the good looks of the X5, especially its kidney grille. Instead, the German manufacturer focused on updating minor details like new bumper designs, and slimmer headlights. The M sport package basically deletes all the chrome bits outside in exchange for piano black accents.

Inside, the most obvious update is the new BMW Curved Display, merging the 14.9-inch infotainment screen with the 12.3-inch instrument cluster in a single panel. An ambient light bar adds some illumination to the cabin and comes in 15 selectable colors.

The X5 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, and X6 xDrive40i get a more powerful version of BMW's 3.0-liter inline-six turbo engine supplemented by some mild-hybrid assistance courtesy of a 48-volt system. From 335 PS and 450 Nm, the updated powerplant now puts out 375 PS and 519 Nm of torque.

Meanwhile, the X5 xDrive45e PHEV is no more; in its place of it is the new xDrive50e PHEV variant. As the name suggests, the total system output has also been increased. From the previous model's 389 PS and 600 Nm, the 3.0-liter inline-six turbo and the electric motor is now producing a combined 483 PS and 700 Nm of torque. As a result, the X5 can sprint faster to 100 km/h, clocking in at 4.6 seconds from the previous 5.3.

Speaking of its electric motor, the new xDrive 50e PHEV produces 194 PS and 380 Nm of torque. On short bursts, it can even go up to 449 Nm. Also, it gets a new battery with a bigger capacity. The new 25.7 kWh unit can now charge on AC power at up to 7.4 kW and can run up to 64 km on pure electric power.

Lastly, the V8 power lives on with the X5 and X6. Available in the M60i xDrive variant, the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 gets a 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance of its own, but the power output remains at 523 PS and 750 Nm of torque.

All three engine options come with an updated 8-speed automatic gearbox, which now has an electric oil pump and torsion dampers that BMW claims will make for smoother shifting. Opt for the M sport package, and the transmission gets a Sprint setting which optimizes the gears, the powertrain, and the mild-hybrid system for maximum performance.

BMW also expanded the selection of the X5 and X6's automated driving and parking systems. Updates include enhanced capabilities for the standard front-collision warning system, as well as an automatic Speed Limit Assist, Exit Warning, Active Navigation, Route Speed Control, Traffic Light Recognition (depending on the market), Emergency Stop Assistant, Lane Change Assist and Merging Assist. The new, optional Parking Assistant Professional also enables automated parking in and out of spaces over a distance of up to 200 meters, which can be controlled from the outside using the My BMW App.

The German manufacturer says the refreshed X5 and X6 will go into production this April at the BMW Spartanburg plant in South Carolina. As for its Philippine release, we could expect the refreshed model to come before the end of the year, or early 2024.