2019 BMW X5 first impressions: Giant with a personality

BMW launched the latest variant in its successful X5-lineup in India on Thursday, bringing a full-size SUV to the Indian consumers. The all-new 2019 X5 is part of the company's upcoming portfolio that comprises 12 new models in India this year. After the global success of the fourth-generation BMW X5, the Bavarian automaker has decided to test the waters in India and it remains to be seen if it will continue the global success despite stiff competition from rivals.

BMW X5 2019 comes in three variants, Sport, xLine and M Sport, priced at Rs 72.90 lakh, Rs 82.40 lakh and Rs 82.40 lakh, respectively. The first two variants, Sport and xLine come with diesel engines while the top-of-the-line M Sport is a petrol turbocharged machine.

The X5's engine options will include the 3.0-litre straight-six turbo petrol and diesel mills. The turbo diesel motor is tuned for 265 bhp and 620 Nm of peak torque, while the six-cylinder petrol will belt out 335 bhp and 450 Nm of peak torque. Both engines will come paired with an 8-speed Steptronic transmission and all-wheel-drive as standard.

The 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine pushes 262 horses down the pipes at 620Nm of peak torque. It also comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission and it can do 0-100kmph in 6.5 seconds.

As for the petrol variant, the BMW X5 gets 3.0-litre turbo petrol tuned for 337 bhp. It is expected to arrive later this year. The new petrol will be BS6 Compliant right from the start and can sprint from. 0-100 kmph in 5.5 seconds.

IBTimes India was invited to be a part of the launch event, graced by the presence of brand ambassador Sachin Tendulkar. We had the chance to briefly inspect the all-new BMW X5 in its full glory, although we are yet to test drive this powerful SUV. Here are our first impressions of the BMW X5 based on our brief time with the SUV.

At first glance, BMW X5 is an SUV. Not the runt of the litter, not the mid-range middle child, a proper giant SUV. It comes with a typical BMW aplomb, a short and succinct introduction to the sporty BMW X5.

But what was highlighted about this particular variation was the iDrive system. The X5 marks the debut of iDrive 7, with control functions via the touchscreen, iDrive controller, voice commands, and gesture. It appears to work with ease but stay tuned for our full review for a more detailed examination of the iDrive system.

Design:

At a glance, one can make out the increased dimensions of the vehicle. Paired with an eye-catching one-piece hexagonal kidney grille and a sculptured bonnet, the BMW X5 makes quite a statement.

Behind the car are gorgeous wraparound taillamps that will make tailgating this giant a pleasure, though we advise you not to do so.

Inside the behemoth is a design that requires minimal touch to function, perhaps too minimal. The gesture controls are really sensitive, so a bare flourish through the air next to the dashboard could have you switching radio stations.

The BMW X5 will be available all over the country. It is a step forward for the automotive giant without losing the core characteristics that make the X series so popular.