2018 BMW X5: Bigger, More Dynamic, Will Ride On CLAR; Confirmed Launch Late 2017?

Mar 23, 2017 06:06 AM EDT | Paul Urban

BMW has been recently spotted road-testing what could be the 2018 BMW X5. Though highly camouflaged, it gave industry experts and enthusiasts a good preview of what to expect and how it performs on the road. BMW was able to somehow give hints of what it can offer in terms of dynamics and size, at least.

According to Motor Authority, the typical shelf life of BMW is usually seven years, however, this is not the case for the X5 as the successor is already beginning to make waves and be the talk of the town this early. The prototype gave cues that the 2018 BMW X5 will come with a more dynamic look which is dominated by shake nose hood and grille treatment. It also showed that it has grown in size which should equate to more spacious interior.

The fourth-generation X5 is reported to not share anything in common with its predecessors which are the ones launched back in 2014 and 2007. Both the second and third-generation share the same underpinning, but not the fourth. As it gets officially launched late 2017 as 2018 model, it will have a distinct identity of its own.

The 2018 BMW X5 will ride on CLAR which stands for Cluster Architecture. This platform combines lightweight materials like aluminum and magnesium, and even carbon fiber that is found on 7-Series. Not only will it reduce the overall body weight dramatically for fuel efficiency, it is also the strongest material which promises a sturdy vehicle altogether.

Powertrains in the upcoming X5 will have 4, 6, and 8-xcylinder engines. There is also a rumored hybrid version and will most likely be M Performance and dedicated M versions. It is reported that the primary reason for the redesigned X5 coming in earlier than expected is to streamline its production process. The CLAR will be created in BMW's plant in South Carolina.

As added by Autos Overviews, the 2018 BMW X5 is made even more powerful as it is capable of producing 445-horsepower and can accelerate from zero to 60 in just 4.7-seconds. Upgrading to M produces more power at 567-horsepower which accelerates in just 4.0-seconds.

The 2018 BMW X5 is definitely one promising SUV. Its predecessor has done well and is still getting good reviews from critics. The upcoming X5 is sure to continue that legacy by raking in more encouraging reviews because of what it promises to deliver.

 

See Now: OnePlus 6: How Different Will It Be From OnePlus 5?

© 2024 Auto World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Get the Most Popular Autoworld Stories in a Weekly Newsletter

Join the Conversation

Real Time Analytics