(September 8, 2018) MUNICH, Germany —  Efficiency meets supremacy — the drive portfolio of the new BMW X5 will be extended during 2019 with the addition of a new plug-in hybrid system. The new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance combines a model-specific in-line 6-cylinder gas engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology with the very latest BMW eDrive technology.

The BMW X5 plug-in hybrid will be launched in the U.S. in 2020 as a 2021 model. The U.S. version will have a system output of 290 kW/394 horsepower. BMW says the electric-only range will be about 50 miles.

More impressively than ever, the second generation of the plug-in hybrid model combines the purely electrically powered driving pleasure of a BMW iPerformance automobile with the versatility that is typical of a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). In doing so, the new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance offers optimized qualities in terms of both driving dynamics and efficiency. It does the sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds — more than one second less than the predecessor model.

The top speed when driving on electric power alone is increased from 74 mph to 87 mph. Its electrically powered range is now approximately 50 miles, almost three times that of its predecessor.

These improved levels are the result of a completely newly developed drive technology. It comprises a 3.0-liter and 210 kW/286 hp in-line 6-cylinder engine from the current BMW EfficientDynamics drive family and the latest generation of BMW eDrive technology. An electrical system output of 82 kW/112 hp, a lithium-ion battery with extended storage capacity and further developed power electronics for intelligent energy management give the plug-in hybrid system of the BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance unique performance characteristics as well as an impressive level of efficiency.

Together, the two drive units generate a system output of 290 kW/394 hp along with a maximum system torque of 442 pound-feet. The combustion engine and electric motor deliver their power to an 8-speed Steptronic transmission of the latest generation and the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive.

In this way, the drive torque is transferred to all four wheels when driving on electric power alone as well as when using the combustion engine or indeed both drive units: this ensures sporty driving pleasure on the road and supreme off-road performance over loose terrain at all times. The top speed of the BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance is 146 mph.



Thanks to the high-voltage battery positioned in the underbody area of the vehicle, the centre of gravity is lower than in conventionally powered SAV model variants. The luggage compartment volume of the BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance is only about 5 cubic feet less. When all seats are used, the storage volume is 17.6 cubic feet; if the rear backrests are folded down, a volume of 60.5 cubic feet is available. The volume of the fuel tank is 18.2 gallons — suitable for long distances.

The new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance is fitted as standard with a two-axle air suspension and electronically controlled dampers. The optional suspension systems available for the plug-in hybrid model include integral active steering. In addition to a comprehensive selection of features in the area of intelligent connectivity, new digital services are also offered that are geared specifically towards electromobility.

In addition, all driver assistance systems developed for the Sports Activity Vehicle as well as high-quality options to enhance comfort and luxurious interior ambience are also available for the new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance.