Our own test drive review of the BMW X5 facelift is just a day away, but in the mean time, let’s enjoy some new photos from the beautiful Florida where BMW photographers had a blast with the premium Sports Activity Vehicle.
The changes in the model year 2011 are quite significant, both in terms of exterior design, but most important, underneath the hood. The front-end went through an extensive facelift, the lower front bumper/fascia have been lifted and given a little redesign from the X6, offering an appearance that makes the front end look lower and more aggressive. It also allows for wider air openings to feed the larger and more powerful engines more air.
To go along with what BMW has been doing lately for the 3-Series LCI, 335is, and F10 5-Series, the X5 features corona rings that are full LEDs. The rear taillights get a new L-shaped LED design as well.
The outgoing X5 had three engine types, the X5 xDrive30i, xDrive48i and xDrive35d. While the diesel xDrive35d survives, the 30i and 48i die are being phased out.
In to replace the outgoing naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-6 and 4.8-liter V8 are the N55 twin-scroll single turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 making 300hp and 300lb-ft of torque, as well as the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 making 400hp and 450lb-ft of torque, similar to the engine in the X5 and X6 M models. So it will now be the X5 xDrive35i and xDrive50i, same with the X6.
The European market also sees the addition of a new model: 2010 BMW X5 xDrive40d powered by the same the 3.0-liter engine found in the 740d. The engine delivers 300 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque (600Nm).
North American sales will begin in May.
