BMW will roll out updated versions of two key “Sport-Activity Vehicles” next month, and it’s giving us a sneak peek at what the 2024 X5 and X6 models will look like.
Actually, it’s not really their looks that matter. Design updates are relatively minor. It’s what’s under the skin — and in the cabin — that matter. And there, the Bavarian automaker has some big news in store. Among other things, the new X5 and X6 models will get BMW’s new, hands-free Highway Assistant system.
The two big crossovers also will go electric. That is, all versions of the 2024 BMW X5 and X6 will feature electrified drivetrains. That includes the plug-in X5 xDrive 50e, which gains power and EV-mode range. The rest of the line-up will offer a choice of new mild hybrid I6 and V8 powertrains.
2024 BMW Design Updates
To get design changes out of the way, both the more traditional X5 SUV and coupe-like X6 adopt revised double-kidney grilles framed by more slit-like headlamps. You can now opt for an illuminated version of the new grille on some models, as well. There are new “air breathers” up front to improve aerodynamics, and the taillights adopt a new “X motif.” Sporty M versions add unique side skirts and other details.
There are interior finish updates, as well, including the new “Sensafin” leather. And both X5 and X6 get the twin-screen BMW Curved Display. Subtly wrapping around the driver, a single pane of glass covers a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment display.
Both 2024 models also adopt BMW’s latest infotainment control system, iDrive 8. New touch-sensitive surfaces surrounding the iDrive knob are meant to make it easier to control a variety of vehicle functions.
BMW Goes Hands-Free
That includes the new BMW Highway Assistant. It’s added to a package of advanced driver assistance systems — the BMW Driving Assistant Professional Package. With it, X5 and X6 join a growing list of vehicles that can be driven hands-free, albeit under strictly controlled conditions.
Highway Assist, explains a BMW news release, “allows the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel when driving on limited access highways at speeds up to 85 mph.” But the automaker emphasizes, “Drivers must … always maintain focus on the road ahead and be prepared to assume responsibility for steering.”
The technology is similar to Ford’s BlueCruise, recently rated tops in a study by Consumer Reports, as well as General Motors’ Super Cruise.
2024 BWM Powertrains Go High-Tech
Even the new drivetrains offered for the 2024 X5 and X6 models take a high-tech turn.
For the upcoming model year, there are three options, starting with a new inline-six that gets 40% more horsepower than the outgoing six, at 375 horsepower. Torque rises 51 pound-feet to 383 — or 398 pound-feet with the Sprint Mode available in M models.
Give credit to the new mild hybrid system that pairs the internal combustion engine with a compact motor integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. The single motor itself can punch out 12 horsepower and up to 147 pound-feet of torque, which comes on all but instantaneously. With the X5 sDrive40i, it will launch you from 0 to 60 in just 5.2 seconds.
BMW Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) Option
The mild hybrid system — which draws power from a 48V battery under the hood — is also paired with the new V8 used in models like the X6 M60i xDrive. It punches out 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. It can sprint from 0 to 60 in just 4.2 seconds.
The X5 xDrive 50e offers a third powertrain option. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) combines a single electric motor with a TwinPower Turbo 3.0L I6 to produce a peak 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. The electric motor alone produces up to 331 pound-feet of near-instant torque to enhance acceleration. BMW estimates 0-60 times of around 4.6 seconds.
Here, BMW goes with a 25.7kWh lithium-ion battery, enough to deliver up to 40 miles of all-electric range before the gas engine takes over. That’s about 10 miles more than the outgoing PHEV.
2024 BMW X5 and X6 Pricing and Availability
Performance-minded drivers have plenty of options to consider for 2024, including the Adaptive M Suspension.
BMW plans to reveal the 2024 X5 and X6 models to the public during next month’s Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. They’ll go into production in April at the automaker’s big assembly plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Look for them to roll into U.S. showrooms by midyear.
The base model 2024 BMW X5 sDrive40i will start at $65,200, while the X6 xDrive40i will start at $73,900. With its new mild hybrid V8, the X5 M60i xDrive is listed at $89,30, and the X6 M60i xDrive starts at $93,600. The plug-in hybrid X5 xDrive50e starts at $72,500. Add another $995 in delivery fees across the board.
