Prices are up, but BMW’s mid-life facelift for the superb X5 SUV includes enhanced specifications, three new models and a significant performance boost for the range-topping X5 xDrive50i Sport.

The new range is:

xDrive30d - $92,100
xDrive35i - $103,900
xDrive40d Sport - $113,300
xDrive50i Sport - $133,400

Among the improvements, all models gain a new eight-speed automatic transmission and speed-dependent Servotronic steering assist with optional Active Steering. 

The range-topping xDrive50i Sport scores a new twin-turbo V8 petrol engine with 300kW/600Nm. That’s an extra 39kW and 245Nm over the current model and delivers zero to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds (1.1 seconds faster).

As the replacement for the current xDrive30i, the new xDrive35i is powered by a new twin-turbo straight six cylinder petrol engine providing a significant performance boost and reduced fuel consumption (down from 11.7l/100kms to 10.1l/100kms).

The xDrive 40d replaces the current xDrive 35d and features an all-aluminium straight six cylinder twin-turbo diesel with common rail high-pressure direct injection. With 225kW/600Nm, it too is significantly faster and more economical with consumption improved by 15 per cent to 7.5l/100kms 

X5’s entry-level xDrive30d is also 15 per cent more economical, sipping diesel at the rate of 7.4l/100kms.

External styling changes are noticeable with new front and rear aprons featuring larger side air intakes and front spoiler. At the rear are new L-shaped taillights.

All option packs – Executive Package, Innovations Package, Sport Package and M Sport Package – have been boosted substantially. 

The X5 has been a global phenomenon for BMW – locally the model has topped the sales charts for luxury SUVs for the past seven years and the mid-life upgrade has delivered an even more impressive package.