On Tuesday, BMW unveiled the 2024 X5 and X6 SUVs. A multitude of upgraded engine options, including plug-in and mild hybrid configurations, are available in addition to the exterior and interior esthetic upgrades.
There will be four alternative powertrain trims available for the 2024 X5: a plug-in hybrid xDrive50e model, an entry-level V-8-powered M60i xDrive, and a base straight-six vehicle with rear- or all-wheel drive. There are only two trim levels available for the X6: the M-badged V-8 variant and the standard straight-six xDrive40i.
If you choose the standard engine, the 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine produces 398 lb-ft of torque and 375 horsepower, which is an increase of 40 horsepower and 66 lb-ft, respectively. A standard 48-volt mild hybrid system that uses a motor housed inside the eight-speed automatic transmission and a battery installed in the engine bay is partially responsible for that boost. BMW claims that the X5 and X6 with this engine can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.2 seconds.
The same inline-six engine is used in the X5 xDrive50e, but it is mated to a new synchronous motor that can provide up to 194 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque by itself. When paired with the engine, the powertrain can provide up to 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. A floor-mounted lithium-ion battery also allows for a 40-mile electric-only range. With the extra thrust, 4.6 seconds is the stated 0-60 time.
The engine of the X5 and X6 M60i xDrive is the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo S68 V-8 that debuted in the X7 and Alpina XB7. It comes standard with 48-volt mild hybrid assistance, which translates into 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque—numbers that are identical to those of the S68-powered X7. If you’re concerned about acceleration, be aware that BMW claims a 4.2-second 0-60 time. For those who are interested, this engine will also be used in the next BMW XM.
Not only have the engines been modified for 2024. Numerous chassis enhancements are also available for the X5 and X6, such as an optional two-axle air suspension system and a freshly calibrated adaptive M suspension. All X5 and X6 vehicles have factory-installed 20-inch wheels, while those with V-8 engines come standard with four-wheel steering. There is also an assortment of wheels measuring 21 and 22 inches.
The most recent iteration of the BMW interior, available for the 2024 X5 and X6, features a digital gauge cluster and a large curved center display that are operated by iDrive 8, the company’s infotainment system. The company’s upgraded “Intelligent Personal Assistant” technology, which can identify natural speech for things like air conditioning adjustment, window functions, navigation, volume, and more, is reportedly included in this most recent version of iDrive from BMW.
The 2024 X5 and X6 will go on display by BMW in March at the Amelia Concours d’Elegance, and production is scheduled to start in April. Starting at $66,195, the base rear-drive X5 sDrive40i will cost $68,495 in the xDrive variant. The base price of the X5 xDrive50e plug-in is $73,495; the maximum price of the X5 M60i xDrive is $90,295. The cheapest X6, the xDrive40i, is priced from $74,895, while the X6 M60i xDrive starts at $94,595.
