2019 BMW X5's updates are more than what meets the eye

BMW is known for manufacturing premium quality cars, from luxury vehicles to performance machines. The German marque is restating this by unveiling the 2019 generation of the X5 nameplate, which is by far the most necessary update done this year in our opinion. It’s more appealing, way techier, and slightly bigger than the outgoing one.

Fortunately, BMW got rid of the black thing under the rectangular grille. Thankfully, the grille on this one is larger, which looks pretty darn good and not awkward. The bumper, on the other hand, gets larger center and side vents that gives the SUV a sportier appeal. Even the headlights are now different, kind of like the ones in the X2.

One notable exterior change is the two-section tailgate which is designed for a much easier luggage loading. The optional Comfort Access will make these sections automatically open and close – perfect if you do the grocery regularly. If you are into technical information, the SUV now has 42-mm longer wheelbase, 36-mm longer body, 66-mm wider, and 19-mm taller.

There are also no disappointments in the cabin as there are carefully-selected materials to welcome its passengers. These include the Vernasca leather upholstery for the new multifunction seats feature. Meanwhile, the instrument cluster and Control Display both measure 12.3 inches and features BMW's Live Cockpit Professional system.

In addition, the launch of X5 also debuts the new BMW Operating System 7.0 display and control concept. This system features highly-customizable and personalized interface that makes passing of information clearer and timelier. Other new techs on the 2019 X5 are the Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Steering and Lane Control Assist, Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision protection and evasive aid, Crossing Traffic Warning, among others.

So, what powers it? It will be retaining the V6 engine, although BMW said that a V8 is ready to nestle under its hood. The inline six option, xDrive 40i variant, will have 340 hp and 450 Nm of torque. It’s larger counterpart, the V8, will be capable of putting out 462 hp and 650 Nm of torque. Both mills will be coupled to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.

Comfort is another big part of the all-new X5. Highlighting this aspect is the Dynamic Damper Control as a standard feature. Adaptive M suspension Professional with active roll stabilization and Integral Active Steering further improve the SUV's driving characteristics, making it more agile and dynamic. Finish it off with a two-axle air suspension, which adjusts the height by up to 80mm at the touch of a button.