BMW X4 SPORTS ACTIVITY COUPE AND M4 CONVERTIBLE MAKE WORLD DEBUT

Woodcliff Lake, NJ –  The all-new BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupe as well as the BMW M4 Convertible make their world debuts at the 2014 New York International Auto Show. North American debuts include the all-new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe as well as the BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe. Also making its North American debut will be the updated 2015 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle which will include the X3 xDrive28d, the first BMW Advanced Diesel X3 model for the US. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive will show the potential of plug-in hybrid electric vehicle technology in a full-size Sports Activity Vehicle.

The 2015 BMW M4 Convertible will share its 425 horsepower 3.0-liter M TwinPower Turbo inline six with the new M4 Coupe and M3 Sedan and will arrive in US showrooms in summer 2014. The 2015 BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupe, 4 Series Gran Coupe, ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe and X3 Sports Activity Vehicle arrive in the US later this spring.

The new BMW X4: A powerful presence
The all-new BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupe represents a new dimension of the mid-sized premium Sports Activity Vehicle. Like the X6 before it, the BMW X4 combines the performance and capability of a premium Sports Activity Vehicle, with the style and elegance of traditional coupe. In the US, the X4 will be offered with a choice of two TwinPower Turbo engines. The X4 xDrive28i, with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $45,625 (including destination and handling), will feature BMW’s award-winning 240 horsepower 2.0-liter four cylinder while the top-of-line X4 xDrive35i, with an MSRP of $48,925 (including destination and handling) will feature BMW’s venerable 300 horsepower 3.0-liter inline six. Both models include an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission with shift paddles as well as xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system.

Compared to its stable-mate, the BMW X3, the X4 Sports Activity Coupe reveals a dynamic personality all its own and an even more ebullient character. At 184.3 inches in length, it is 0.6 inches longer than the X3, but is also 1.5 inches lower (height: 63.9 in.) and cuts a persuasive figure with its perfectly balanced proportions and distinctive character. The large air intakes positioned on the outer edges of the front facia and the precise character lines in the front apron lend the X4 a more muscular appearance. This lowers the car’s visual centre of gravity closer to the road, signaling its sharper dynamics. The effect is further enhanced by the LED foglights located below the signature twin round headlights, an arrangement that defines the striking face of every BMW X model.

The coupe-like roofline of the BMW X4 reaches its highest point over the front seats, reflecting the traditional driver focus of every BMW, before dropping gently down towards the trailing edge of the tailgate. These stretched lines underline the sporting coupe character of the X4. The unique design of the BMW X4 is further reinforced by the fresh interpretation of the signature swage line running along the flanks of BMW models which, for the first time, is split into two. The first section rises smoothly from the front wheel arches to the rear door handles, highlighting the dynamic ability of the new BMW X4, while the second part accentuates the powerful sculpting of the rear fenders. The contoured C-pillars – complete with muscular shoulders – represent a continuation of the theme, as does the broad and low-set rear end, which reminds the driver and passengers of the performance potential served up by the new BMW X4 before they even climb aboard.

The interior of the new BMW X4 reveals a synthesis of sportiness and exclusivity. The X4’s body is mounted 1.5 inches lower than that of the BMW X3. The driver and front passenger sit 0.8 in. lower and the rear passengers 1.1 in. lower, creating the feeling of a classic sports coupe. It is a sensation reinforced by the rear seat bench, which comes with the type of continuously molded side bolsters normally only provided by two individual seats, but still offers space for three passengers. Equally impressive is the load capacity available, 17.7- 49.4 cu. ft., which can be used in a wide variety of ways thanks to the standard 40:20:40 split rear seat bench. Everyday usability is enhanced even further by the standard power tailgate. It is available with the extra convenience of the optional Smart Opener, which allows it to be opened with a movement of the foot. All X4s include BMW’s iDrive Controller and central display. When equipped with the available on-board navigation system, the new BMW X4 receives the new iDrive Controller with touchpad, which allows drivers or passengers to use their finger to write letters for text inputs, such as a navigation destination, for example.

The premium quality and exclusivity of the interior are underlined by selected materials, subtle electroplated accents, a high-gloss black-panel look and aluminum trim strips in the wood paneling. The unmistakable character of the BMW X4 is further highlighted by a level of standard equipment even more generous than that found on the BMW X3. All X4s include the aforementioned power tailgate as well as a sports leather steering wheel with shift paddles, variable sport steering, Performance Control and rear Park Distance Control.

Available M Sport brings the outstanding dynamics of the BMW X4 into greater focus. One element of M Sport is the M Aerodynamics package, which gives the BMW X4 a particularly striking appearance. The High-gloss Shadow Line trim lends even greater emphasis to the unique character of the Sports Activity Coupe and the sporty suspension set-up raises driving pleasure another notch. Six selected paint finishes (including Melbourne Red metallic), four special interior trim strips, sports seats with various leather upholstery options, an Anthracite headliner, an M leather steering wheel, M door sill finishers, an M driver’s footrest and a choice of 19 or 20-inch M light-alloy wheels add the finishing touches to the car’s appearance.

In addition to the broad-based and high-quality selection of different colors, light-alloy wheels, upholstery variants, interior trim elements and trim strips for which BMW is renowned, the xLine equipment package gives BMW X4 customers the chance to shine an even brighter spotlight on the X character of their car.

The state-of-the-art TwinPower Turbo engines available for the new BMW X4 boast High Precision Direct Injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft control and Valvetronic fully variable valve timing. These technologies join forces to provide the high-revving character for which BMW is renowned, along with excellent power delivery, refinement – and impressive efficiency. Drivers with sporting ambitions will appreciate the top-of-the-line X4 xDrive35i. Its 3.0-liter inline six conjures up maximum output of 300 hp between 5,800 and 6,400 rpm and peak torque of 300 lb-ft at 1,200–5,000 rpm. That’s enough to power the X4 xDrive35i from
0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds. The 240 hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder powering the BMW X4 xDrive28i produces peak torque of 260 lb-ft and a 0 to 60 mph time of six seconds flat. Both engines are mated to BMW’s 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission.

All X4 models have a sporty suspension set-up and come standard with xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system.  Performance Control is standard on the X4. It uses the Dynamic Stability Control system to direct power to the outside rear wheel when cornering which improves traction, turn-in and directional stability. Working in tandem with the standard variable sport steering, these systems allow the BMW X4 to deliver driving dynamics that one would expect of The Ultimate Driving Machine. An xDrive status display in the Control Display uses three-dimensional graphics to keep the driver informed of the car’s body roll and pitch. If the navigation system is specified, a compass display in the instrument cluster is included.

The BMW X4 offers the unique blend of style, driving dynamics and all-road capability that can only be offered by a BMW Sports Activity Coupe.

The all-new BMW M4 Convertible
The arrival of the new 2015 BMW M4 Convertible sees BMW M GmbH making another addition to its legendary high-performance sports car line-up. The new M4 Convertible replicates the performance of the new BMW M4 Coupe and M3 Sedan, but emphasizes its stylish and distinctive appearance through its retractable hardtop that places open-top driving at center stage. The new model finds BMW M GmbH drawing inspiration from a long tradition. BMW’s high-performance, top-down sports car enters its fifth generation globally with this new chapter in its history.

The BMW M4 Convertible shares the elegant lines of its open-top 4 Series siblings. Its design language allows it to skillfully blend a distinctive and graceful silhouette boasting finely balanced proportions when the roof is open with an exceptionally dynamic coupe line, shorn of B-pillars, with the hardtop closed. At the same time, the M4 Convertible’s styling cues – including a signature power dome for the bonnet, distinctive front air dam, signature rear apron with four-round tailpipes and flared front and rear wheel arches bulging over forged light-alloy wheels available in 18 or 19-inch design – all identify it clearly as a member of the BMW M3/M4 model family.

Powering the BMW M4 Convertible is the newly developed in-line six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving character already familiar from the M3 Sedan and the M4 Coupe. It generates maximum output of 425 hp from its 3.0-liter displacement and serves up peak torque of 406 lb-ft across a wide rev band. The BMW M4 Convertible offers the driver not only exceptionally sporty performance attributes – the sprint from 0 to 60 mph takes just 4.2 seconds with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission, 4.4 seconds with the standard 6-speed manual – but also sufficient reserves of power to cruise along in relaxed but rapid style with the roof down.

Like the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe, the BMW M4 Convertible also displays a strict adherence to the intelligent lightweight construction principle. For example, the hood and front fenders are made of aluminum, as are many components of the high-performance chassis. Ultra-lightweight and strong carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) is employed in many areas of the new M4 Convertible. The drive shaft is just one example. The use of CFRP enables the M4’s driveshaft to be constructed as one single piece which not only offers significant weight saving but a reduction in rotating masses as well. The CFRP high-precision front strut brace in the engine compartment, meanwhile, weighs only 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) yet offers rigidity superior to that of a comparable aluminum component. It provides an added measure of steering response and precision.

The BMW M4 Convertible will arrive in US showrooms in late summer 2014.

The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe: new performance-luxury 4-door coupe

The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe adds a fresh dimension to one of the company’s newest model ranges.  It combines the sleek look and sporty character of the 4 Series Coupe with the functionality provided by four-doors and a spacious, flexible luggage compartment. The 2015 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe arrives in the US in early summer of 2014 with two engine choices. The 428i Gran Coupe will feature BMW’s award-winning 240hp TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder while the 435i Gran Coupe will be powered by the much-lauded 300hp TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline six. The 428i xDrive Gran Coupe will also be available at launch with BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system. An
8-speed sport automatic transmission will be standard. Prices in the US will start at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $41,225 (including $925 destination & handling) for the 428i Gran Coupe. The 428i xDrive Gran Coupe will have an MSRP of $43,225, including destination & handling while the top-of-the-line 435i Gran Coupe will have an MSRP of $46,725, again, including destination & handling.

While this model shares the same length, width, wheelbase and track with its two-door sibling, the roofline of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is 4.4 inches longer and slopes gently to the rear of the vehicle. What’s more, the silhouette is half an inch higher to offer more headroom and comfort for rear-seat passengers. This contributes to more headroom for all passengers and the overall feeling of interior spaciousness. At the same time, the short front and rear overhangs, the long wheelbase relative to the vehicle length, and the set-back passenger compartment are typical BMW touches that add to the perfect balance of the body design and the sleek appearance of this car, which is derived conceptually from the elegant BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.

In contrast to a two-door coupe, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe offers passengers easier access when entering or leaving the vehicle thanks to the four-door configuration. The doors are frameless, having the characteristic design features of BMW midsize coupes. The wide-access tailgate blends perfectly with the overall silhouette. When closed, the precise flow of the lid seams simulates the look of a typical coupe trunk. The volume of the trunk is 17 cu-ft, based on EU measurements. The back of the rear seat can be folded down in a 40:20:40 configuration as desired to increase the load capacity to 46 cu-ft. The Smart Opener function of Comfort Access is included as part of the Premium Package on US models, which automatically opens the tailgate via gesture control – namely a foot movement under the rear bumper when arms are full carrying groceries, packages, etc.

The interior of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe presents a stylish fusion of sporty allure and luxury. An approach known as layering – the intelligent utilization of space through the structuring of lines and surfaces into layers – expresses the hallmark BMW driver orientation without compromising the passenger experience. The stylish and functional elegance of the interior is highlighted by prominent round instruments with a black panel look and the free-standing flat-screen iDrive monitor. The cockpit and rear passenger compartment are visually joined by trim strips originating in the instrument panel and extending along the upper sections of the door panels into the rear, and embellished by dual-color window sills. The B-pillar blends into the side panel design and includes flowing graphic effects across the entire surface. The side supports and slender head restraints in the rear seat are contoured for a modern, seemingly molded one-piece look that adds to the sporty character of the 4+1 seater.

The premium ambience of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe results from exclusive colors, high-quality and rich material combinations along with special equipment packages for a customized look. In addition to the standard equipment, which highlights the classic character of the vehicle, two design Lines (Sport and Luxury) as well as M Sport are available. These optional packages endow each 4 Series Gran Coupe with a particular character and identity by embellishing the interior and exterior of the vehicle. Sport and Luxury lines offer various renditions of the following elements in contrast to the basic standard equipment: appearance and color of the kidney grille and air intakes, Air Breathers and mirror covers, side window design, front and rear apron trim, door sill finishers, and an interior center stack finished in high-gloss black. To make the strongest dynamic statement, the M Sport package is also available at model launch with special body elements, exterior colors, light-alloy wheels and interior elements.

The networking of driver, vehicle and the outside world with new assistance systems and information and entertainment features is increasingly enhancing safety and comfort within the vehicle. BMW was early in recognizing the significance of networking and began integrating the digital world in its cars many years ago. The BMW ConnectedDrive systems offered in the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe either as standard or as an option underline the technological leadership. The extraordinarily high level of development in mobile automotive communication is reflected in the fact that even after purchasing a BMW, customers can, for a limited period of time, flexibly order and subscribe to a range of technologies and services.

The all-new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe will offer a new dimension in mid-sized performance-luxury coupes when it arrives in US showrooms this spring.

The 2015 BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe
The 2015 BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe combines ALPINA’s unique blend of super-high performance and individuality in a stunningly beautiful 6 Series Gran Coupe body and featuring xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system. It delivers exceptional 0 to 60 mph acceleration in only 3.7 seconds. The 540-horsepower and 540 lb-ft output of the 4.4-liter ALPINA Bi-Turbo V8 is channeled through an 8 speed Sport Automatic Transmission with ALPINA Switch-Tronic and BMW’s xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system.

A carefully tuned high performance stainless steel ALPINA exhaust system with twin elliptical tailpipes resonates with a deep but unobtrusive exhaust note.

Electronic Damping Control and Active Roll Stabilization technology work together with the fully variable torque distribution of the xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system.  The seamless integration of chassis and powertrain enables agile and neutral driving dynamics that meet the highest demands for sportiness, comfort and all-weather traction.

With a top speed of 198 MPH, the BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe impresses not only through its effortless and confident super-high performance, but also with its finely balanced handling and smooth refinement.

Typical ALPINA design features blend stylishly into the elegant lines of the B6 Gran Coupe, accentuating its dynamic and powerful appearance. The delicate and refined 20-inch ALPINA CLASSIC 21-spoke wheels complement the long and smooth contours of the B6 Gran Coupe.

As beautiful as the ALPINA design features are, the aerodynamic elements are also fully functional. The front apron with integrated, slightly protruding splitter elements directs airflow over and around the body rather than underneath the vehicle and thus contributes to increased high speed aerodynamic stability.

The front apron was carefully designed to provide sufficient airflow for the cooling needs of the powertrain, directing air to the intercooler, as well as to the different heat exchanger elements for coolant and oil. The 14.7-inch diameter front brake rotors and the 13.6-inch diameter rear brake rotors benefit from NACA ducts at the front of the underbody to direct cold air towards them.

The ALPINA exclusive LAVALINA leather is used to cover the hand stitched steering wheel, door sill trims are highlighted with an illuminated ALPINA logo and exclusive ALPINA Myrtle wood or Piano Black trim finishes are available.

A wide range of individualization possibilities are available for ALPINA customers The BMW Individual and the ALPINA equipment ranges are available to create a truly unique vehicle using the Gran Coupe body as a canvas for the personal preferences of BMW Alpina B6 drivers. Exclusive ALPINA exterior colors available for the BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe include ALPINA Blue and ALPINA Green.

The 2015 BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe will be available in the US at authorized BMW centers with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $118,225 including $925 destination and handling.

The 2015 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle: New engine and drivetrain options lead a list of enhancements
The 2015 BMW X3 is set to build on the leadership established when the mid-sized Sports Activity Vehicle was launched in 2003. The newest X3 builds on the success of the second generation model with a host of enhancements which include new engine and drivetrain options. A new offer of BMW Advanced Diesel power for the US in the X3 xDrive28d will enhance efficiency while further reducing emissions. There will also be the first-time offer of the rear-wheel drive BMW X3 sDrive28i for the US market, providing a great consumer entry point into the X3 family.  The exterior and interior design of the new BMW X3 receive stylistic revisions that add further depth to the vehicle’s practicality, while updates to other details promise to impress the X3 customer.

The 2015 BMW X3 will go on sale in spring 2014 as a 2015 model with prices starting at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $39,325 for the X3 sDrive28i (new offer: rear-wheel drive). The X3 xDrive28i (with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive) will have an MSRP of $40,725, while the top-of-the-line X3 xDrive35i will have an MSRP of $46,025. The all-new X3 xDrive28d with BMW Advanced Diesel technology will start at $42,825. All prices include $925 Destination & Handling fee.

The new BMW X3 cuts a visually more powerful figure with its new, modified twin-circular headlights (LED headlights are optional), a more eye-catching kidney grille, new front and rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators – all of which shine a figurative spotlight on the signature BMW X model design features. A high level of perceived quality also defines the interior of the new BMW X3. Chrome applications, a center console with automatic climate control system in a high-gloss black-panel display, and new cup holders with a sliding cover for the center console underline the vehicle’s premium appearance. New exterior colors, upholstery designs, interior trim strips and light-alloy wheels enable even more refined individualization. The new xLine allows owners to lend greater emphasis still to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the BMW X3. And the Smart Opener for the automatic tailgate further enhances the already impressive functionality of the BMW X3.

The new BMW X3 is available from launch with a choice of one diesel and two gasoline engines, with outputs ranging from 180 hp to 300 hp. The state-of-the-art engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology guarantee outstanding performance combined with low fuel consumption.

The new X3 xDrive28d will feature BMW’s 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine. It produces 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, available from 1,750 rpm, and will be mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The X3 xDrive28d will accelerate from 0 – 60 mph in just under eight seconds. BMW Advanced Diesel technology includes Selective Catalyst Reduction to make the new X3 a clean diesel.

Like its xDrive all-wheel drive counterpart, the new X3 sDrive28i features BMW’s brilliant 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine, which produces 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. For customers with driving habits in which all-wheel drive might prove superfluous, the X3 sDrive28i provides an excellent alternative. Zero to 60 mph may be accomplished in a swift 6.2 seconds.

Aside from its length, which has grown by a single centimeter, the new BMW X3 has the same compact, usable dimensions of its successful predecessor. However, the new BMW X3 comes with a host of exclusive details. At the front end, for example, the newly designed twin circular headlights stand out immediately. They can also be ordered in full-LED specification as an option and, like the LED front fog lights, lend even greater expression to the premium profile of the BMW X3. The characteristic, more strikingly-presented BMW kidney grille has an even sharper visual impact with its new surround, and powerful, newly designed front and rear bumpers highlight the poised and assured appearance of the new BMW X3. The LED turn signal indicators are now housed in the new exterior mirrors, while four new exterior paint shades and four newly styled light-alloy wheel variants broaden the scope for individualization.

The high-quality material and color concept shines the spotlight on the premium profile of the new BMW X3. xLine, which lends even further emphasis to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the X3, sees BMW expanding the scope for individualization. xLine can be identified from the outside by gleaming metallic inserts in the bumpers, satin aluminum side cladding and bars in the air intakes, and simulated under guards at the front and rear. It also allows customers to choose from additional leather upholstery variants, trim strips and 19-inch light-alloy wheel options.

The superb dynamic qualities of the new BMW X3 can be showcased to even greater effect by specifying M Sport, with the M aerodynamic package and High-gloss Shadow Line trim maximizing the vehicle’s presence on the road. In addition, customers can choose from six paint finishes and two exclusive light-alloy wheel options in 19 and 20-inch format. In the cockpit, Anthracite roof liner and sports seats in various leather upholstery variants intensify the sporting theme. Technical highlights include the eight-speed sport automatic transmission, sport steering and suspension settings tuned to deliver even sharper dynamic performance.

The BMW X3 also builds further on its segment-leading status when it comes to everyday usability and versatility. All BMW X3 models are fitted with a 6.5-inch iDrive display and iDrive Controller. BMW Assist eCall, meanwhile, uses an integrated telephone unit to summon rapid assistance. Access to this service is now included for ten years as standard equipment. A range of other innovative options adds further to the functionality of the new X3. The Smart Opener, for instance, makes accessing the load compartment much easier; a short movement of the foot below the rear bumper causes it to open or close the tailgate automatically. A storage package including a reversible floor section, folding box, partition elements and a range of different luggage nets allows objects of any kind to be stowed away easily, safely and tidily, and the 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat enables maximum flexibility. Elsewhere, the optional sound system from Harman Kardon promises audio pleasure for the new BMW X3.

The 2015 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle will arrive in US showrooms this spring.

The BMW Concept X5 eDrive

The new BMW X5 has already raised efficiency to a whole new level in the world of the luxury Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). BMW is using the New York International Auto Show 2014 to present what it sees as the logical next step towards bringing about a radical reduction in fuel consumption and emissions in the SAV segment. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive succeeds in fusing the familiar brand of driving pleasure generated by the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and a luxurious ambience enshrined within an interior offering tremendous versatility of use with a plug-in hybrid drive system. A conventional combustion engine works together in perfect harmony with the cutting-edge BMW eDrive technology to produce the sporty drive for which the brand is renowned while operating with exceptional efficiency. As a result, the car is able to drive on electric power alone at speeds of up to 75 mph and for a distance of up to approximately 20 miles, while recording average fuel efficiency figures of approximately 62 miles per gallon (US) in the EU test cycle.

The concept study has undergone a series of detailed refinements in preparation for its appearance at the New York International Auto Show and is equipped with a drive system comprising a 245 hp four-cylinder gasoline engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and a 95 hp electric motor. The motor is supplied with power from a lithium-ion battery that can be charged from any domestic socket and has sufficient capacity to enable all-electric driving with zero local emissions for a range of up to approximately 20 miles. To ensure a particularly high level of crash safety, the high-voltage battery developed for the BMW Concept X5 eDrive has been housed underneath the luggage compartment, whose load capacity remains virtually unchanged as a result.

Various drive system and driving modes are available to suit requirements and the situation in hand. The familiar COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO modes can be selected with the Driving Experience Control switch, allowing the intelligent hybrid drive system to be fine-tuned to produce the desired balance between sportiness and efficiency. What’s more, two further drive system modes can be activated at the push of a button as an alternative to the AUTO eDrive setting: MAX eDrive for driving solely on electric power in city traffic and SAVE Battery for maintaining the current battery charge.

Thanks to the BMW eDrive technology that has been developed specifically for this model, the concept car brings a whole new brand of poise and assurance to the SAV segment. The formidable power reserves produced by its duo of drive units, its outstanding levels of motoring comfort and the optimised traction, handling stability and dynamic performance qualities over any terrain courtesy of BMW xDrive technology endow it with the all-round sporty prowess typically associated with BMW X models, while its landmark efficiency blazes a trail for its rivals to follow. The ability to operate purely on electric power with zero local emissions, especially in city traffic, puts a whole new slant on the SAV driving experience that shows the shape of things to come. At the same time, the plug-in hybrid drive concept does not impinge in any way on the exemplary versatility offered by the Sports Activity Vehicle’s interior or its wonderfully luxurious ambience. In short, the BMW Concept X5 eDrive shows itself to be supremely talented in every way, deftly bringing major advances in cutting fuel consumption and emissions into harmony with state-of-the-art functionality and everyday practicality that never fails to impress.

A number of understated styling touches have been meticulously incorporated into the exterior design to underline the groundbreaking character of the BMW Concept X5 eDrive. The kidney grille bars, air intake bars and the insert in the rear bumper are all finished in the BMW i Blue colour developed for the BMW i brand, for instance, creating a contrast to the Silverflake metallic exterior paintwork. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive also comes with body-colored wheel arches, specially styled roof rails, a connector for the charging cable that lights up during charging, as well as 21-inch light-alloy wheels in an exclusive, streamlined design.

To make sure that the styling of the luxurious passenger compartment echoes the highly sophisticated drive concept, light blue double-felled seams adorn the Ivory White exclusive leather upholstery covering the seats, door trim panels and dashboard. Further highlight features of the specially designed interior include the Piano Finish Black interior trim with blue accent strips, ambient lighting with a blue hue, and an eDrive button that is also illuminated in blue. And in the luggage compartment lined in blue velour, a transparent cover affords a clear view of the high-voltage battery for the electric motor.

Electrification of the powertrain allows BMW to unlock tremendous potential for reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The BMW eDrive technology developed for this purpose comes in various versions, each precisely tailored to the particular vehicle concept. Both the BMW i3, the first all-electric production vehicle from the BMW Group, and the soon-to-be-launched BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car are powered by BMW eDrive technology. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive now follows in the tracks of the BMW Concept Active Tourer, seen last year at NYIAS, by demonstrating how model-specific BMW eDrive technology can be employed in plug-in hybrid models from the BMW core brand.

This is the first time that BMW eDrive technology has been hooked up with the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive boasts the superior driving characteristics that stem from the electronically controlled and fully variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear wheels. Regardless of the selected driving mode, the drive power generated by the electric motor, the engine or the two units acting in unison is channelled swiftly and precisely to wherever it can be converted into forward propulsion most effectively. This allows the concept study to deliver all the qualities that SAVs are renowned for – superb traction and optimized handling in all weather and road conditions coupled with enhanced agility when taking corners at speed – in remarkably efficient fashion. The versatile and sporty driving abilities of the BMW Concept X5 eDrive are accompanied by average fuel efficiency on the EU test cycle of 62 miles per gallon (US).

Both driving pleasure and efficiency in the BMW Concept X5 eDrive are given an extra boost by an electric motor generating a maximum output of 95 hp together with the instantaneous power delivery that has become a hallmark of electric drive units thanks to the high levels of torque available from the word go. The electric motor variant developed for the BMW Concept X5 eDrive also comes with sporty performance credentials and a weight-saving design. The electric motor is capable of propelling the BMW Concept X5 eDrive to a top speed of 75 mph on its own. With 184 lb-ft of torque on tap from stationary, it gives the vehicle spontaneous response that translates into dynamic acceleration. It also works in tandem with the combustion engine to boost its power significantly whenever a quick burst of speed is called for. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive is able to complete the standard sprint from rest to 60 mph in under 7.0 seconds.

The task of ensuring the engine and electric motor team up together to optimum effect is handled by the power electronics that were developed by the BMW Group and apply the same basic concept used in the BMW i cars. The power electronics combine a liquid-cooled inverter for driving the electric motor, supplying energy to the onboard electrical system from the high-voltage battery and for centralized control of the hybrid-specific drive functions into a single integrated system.

Like other members of the current BMW production line-up, the BMW Concept X5 eDrive also includes a Driving Experience Control switch for selecting not only the COMFORT and SPORT settings but also the ECO PRO mode that fosters a particularly economical driving style. This default driving mode is activated automatically when the car is started and is programmed for highly intelligent hybrid functionality, whereby the energy management system orchestrates the interaction between engine and electric drive unit as the driving situation changes in order to maximize efficiency. A hybrid-specific Proactive Driving Assistant has furthermore been included, which works together with the navigation system to allow the route profile, any speed restrictions and the traffic situation to be factored in as well for the purpose of drive management.

In addition to this, the driver also has the option of engaging the all-electric driving mode by switching from AUTO eDrive to the MAX eDrive setting at the push of a button. With the battery fully charged, the vehicle is able to cover a distance of up to approximately 20 miles on electric power alone, meaning zero tailpipe emissions. There is also a SAVE Battery mode, which can be selected to deliberately preserve the battery’s energy capacity. This might be the case, for example, if a longer journey is due to end with a final stage through urban traffic that drivers wish to complete in all-electric mode.

In order to capitalize as much as possible on the superior efficiency of its electrified powertrain, the BMW Concept X5 eDrive is designed as a plug-in hybrid, allowing its high-voltage battery’s energy levels to be renewed from any domestic power socket, a special Wallbox that can handle higher currents, or at a public high-speed charging station. The Wallbox Pro is designed for installation in the customer’s garage and offers complete ease of use as well as exceptionally short battery recharging times, thanks to a maximum charging rate of 7.4 kW. It is controlled by means of a high-resolution touchscreen including proximity sensor, while LED light strips provide an additional indication of the charge status. The built-in load management facility governs the charging current in accordance with the current draw on the household electricity supply. The Wallbox Pro even makes it possible to use home-generated electricity, such as that obtained from solar panels. There is also a function for creating different user profiles and displaying the respective charging histories. The corresponding data can be sent online on request, e.g. for billing purposes.

The high degree of flexibility drivers can enjoy when it comes to choosing an energy source is given an added boost by the charging cable that is carried in the vehicle and stored underneath the luggage compartment’s flat load floor. The battery unit is located one level lower again, meaning that there is only a small loss of load capacity overall – the luggage compartment is able to hold two large suitcases or four 46-inch golf bags. The SAV’s excellent versatility – helped by the 40:20:40 split-folding rear backrest – has been fully retained, along with its ample sense of spaciousness and the impressive level of comfort offered to the occupants of all five seats.

Innovative functions from BMW ConnectedDrive assist with planning journeys in such a way as to maximize the amount of time spent driving on electric power alone. In the BMW Concept X5 eDrive, the current electric range appears as a numerical value in the instrument cluster. Intelligent connectivity enables the vehicle’s dynamic range display to constantly make allowances for any factors affecting the range, such as traffic conditions, route profile and driving style.

When route guidance is activated, the location of local charging stations is added to the selection of points of interest shown on the navigation map. Drivers are able to call up charging stations situated along the planned route or at their destination, while the system additionally notifies them of the charging time needed to fully replenish the battery’s energy levels. What’s more, information graphics indicating the current operating status when engine and motor work together in unison, the impact of the driving style on vehicle efficiency and the fuel consumption history for selected periods of time can be shown in the iDrive operating system’s Control Display, along with other information.

Drivers are also able to view all information relating to the battery’s charge level and electric driving range on their smartphone. A Remote app from BMW ConnectedDrive that has been specially designed with electric mobility in mind even enables them to control the charging process from their phone. It also allows the vehicle to be pre-programmed whenever it is connected to an electricity supply: the heating and air conditioning systems can be activated remotely in this way to get the passenger compartment to a pleasant temperature ready for the start of the journey.