BMW has offered the first insight into the plug-in hybrid version of the all-new X5, which is due in South Africa before the end of the year.
The new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance combines a model-specific in-line six-cylinder petrol engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology with the very latest BMW eDrive technology. Consistent progress in the area of plug-hybrid drive has produced a system output now increased to 290 kW, a tangible enhancement in terms of electrically powered range and a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 levels as compared to the predecessor model.
It sprints to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds, but can also drive on electricity alone for around 80km.
The combined fuel consumption of the new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance drops to 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres, while the relevant CO2 emissions figure is now 49 grams per kilometre.
The combustion engine and electric motor deliver their power to an eight-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.
