BMW X5 xDrive45e - this package has plenty of size and power!

The X-series SUVs are already available in BMW’s range in numerical order from X1 to X7. Thanks to its 24 kWh battery pack, the X5 Charging Hybrid, which has now been test-driven, offers a real-life range of over 60 kilometres on electric power alone, and ample space for a larger party.

Respecting tradition

Despite its electrification, the X5 45e has managed to keep the three-litre straight-six under the bonnet, which has been one of BMW’s most recognisable trademarks throughout the years. So the engine has not been compromised, although an electric motor has been added to provide extra power and, in particular, to reduce fuel consumption.

The petrol engine has a maximum output of 286 horsepower and the electric motor 113 horsepower. The maximum combined output of the engines is 394 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque. Zero to 60 km/h acceleration for this 2,500 kg “lump” is a commendable 5.6 seconds.

Fuel consumption remains at a moderate level compared to the above figures. Combined fuel consumption in mixed driving with the combustion engine alone was around nine litres during the test drive.

These figures drop to around a few litres when the car is regularly recharged. An impressive range of more than 60 km on electric power alone is easily achievable even with a slightly more vigorous driving style – thanks to the new 24 kWh capacity battery.

BMW advertises a range of up to 87 kilometres on electric power alone, but this was not achieved in the test drive, even with a light accelerator foot.

Battery range is definitely one of the best things about the big ‘eco SUV’. Most charging hybrids on the market today are capable of a maximum of 30-40 km on their 10-15 kWh batteries.

In addition to the petrol engine, BMW’s tradition is respected in terms of drivability. The steering is very responsive and the ride quality is high.

The feel of the chassis is comfort-oriented. The car’s centre of gravity is clearly higher due to the raised ground clearance, and this is noticeable in the form of a slight body roll in corners.

This is not a problem, but the X5 has clearly been designed with comfort in mind, also through the softness of the chassis. The chassis does have some stiffness and character when the going gets tough. The chassis is a balanced compromise between sportiness and softness.

Even for larger loads

The boot door opens in two sections. The downward-opening hatch makes loading easier, while also reducing the size of the upward-opening hatch. The smaller, downward-opening hatch is easy to sit in and can easily accommodate a small picnic for two.

The floor height of the luggage compartment can be lowered by pressing a button. The air suspension on the rear axle lowers for easy loading or trailer hitching. The maximum towing capacity for a trailer with brakes is an impressive 2,700 kg.

The fully automatic tailgate comes up in about ten seconds at the touch of a button.

The luggage compartment has a capacity of 500 litres with the rear seats upright. In terms of size, the space appears to be larger. The trunk has a clear square shape at the bottom and the height allows for the transport of larger items. With the rear seats up, the volume is 1720 litres.

Coffee mug heating and skinny trouser legs

The BMW X5 is one of the best-selling SUV models in the United States, and no wonder, because the new X5 exudes American-driven solutions.

There’s excellent visibility out of the cabin, the cabin is really spacious, drinks are heated and cooled in the cup holder, and the steering wheel folds away from the belly when the car is switched off. In addition to the above, the new X5 has a long list of other small but useful features that make everyday life easier.

A major improvement, however, would be the protruding hem at the bottom of the door, where in the miserable Finnish weather you can easily get your trouser leg tangled when getting out of the car.

The new BMW X5 is clearly an improved version of its already impressive predecessor. Externally, the changes have been kept to a minimum.

But this does not detract from the fact that the X5 is an excellent car, which in terms of size and features can be folded into many sizes. The test-driven 45e model brings green values to the car, and a much lower price in terms of taxation.