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2014 BMW X5 Spy Shots

 
2 17,116 views May 23, 2012
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2014 BMW X5 spy shots

HI-RES GALLERY: 2014 BMW X5 spy shots
A prototype for the upcoming third-generation BMW X5 has been captured in testing once again, this time with the least amount of camouflage we've seen yet.

Code-named F15, the new X5 will bring sleeker looks, lighter weight, more efficient engines, and more high tech to the luxury SUV brand.

Weight reduction, as with other recent BMW models, will likely come through the use of high-tech steel, more aluminum, and smarter design.

Cutting weight is, after all, one of the best ways to get more efficiency out of a given vehicle while preserving or even enhancing performance, and both are important to BMW and X5 buyers.

Starting with the advances made on the F10 5-Series platform, a version of which is expected to underpin the new 2014 X5, will help the SUV's high-performance handling. Weight savings of up to 450 pounds over the current model are possible.

As for powertrains, expect an eight-speed automatic transmission paired with a variety of turbocharged engines, including inline six-cylinder and V-8s. A turbocharged four-cylinder is possible, as used in the new 528i, but perhaps unlikely given the X5's still-greater mass.

A diesel version will also be available, likely even in the United States, with an evolution of the M Performance model coming to the current X5 range soon possible as well. An X5 M is possible, as well, though given small volumes, high costs, and low fuel economy, it may not see another generation.

2014 BMW X5 spy shots

2014 BMW X5 spy shots

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The 2014 X5 is also likely to get an ActiveHybrid variant, with this model perhaps the best candidate for use of the turbocharged four-cylinder, since the electric hybrid drive system would help with low-end torque and the turbo four would deliver good cruising fuel economy. On the other hand, the same system used in the ActiveHybrid 5 might be a more natural fit.

Other technologies we’re likely to see include self-leveling air suspension, night vision, park assist, traffic-sign recognition, and fuel-saving measures such as engine stop-start capability.

With almost two years until the expected late-2013 debut of the next X5, however, details and specifications are still on the table. By that time a brand new Acura MDX should also be in showrooms, so competition will be fierce.

We'll keep you updated with the latest as we learn what BMW plans for its next luxury SUV, but in the meantime click here to watch a spy video of the new 2014 BMW X5 via our YouTube page.



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Comments (2)

  1. fb_100001137592380 avatar Yo Ma Posted: 1/18/2012 11:17am PST

    Is it just me or are they getting uglier every year. I wasn't fond of the look when they came out, but this is ridiculous!
     
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  2. WizardsLore avatar WizardsLore Posted: 2/6/2012 7:23pm PST

    if you can see the design of the car under all the cammo you are doing well. The finished design isnt close to what you may see. the latest version doesnt look too shabby. What shoudl be enforced though is that all those mums (and dads) who get them bought for them shoudl take drving lessons to actually understand and appreciate the dimensions of their new behemoth, along witht he new owners of the Q7 Audi
     
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