The updated BMW X5 may be adopting the new “curved dash” inside, but outside it’s largely business as usual.
BMW doesn’t appear to have altered the styling of its hot-selling large SUV too much for its mid-cycle update, which could enter production early in 2023.
The front end of this X5 M prototype remains camouflaged but we can make out what appear to be slimmer headlights.
The grille may also receive a refresh, perhaps adopting a more angular look à la the X6. It’s possible the illuminated grille of the X6 could also make its way onto the X5.
There are also the usual mid-cycle update tweaks, like a refreshed front bumper. The sides are unchanged, as is typical.
Down back, the tail lights appear the same shape but the graphics have more of a 3D effect, like those on the updated X3.
Inside, there may be a more dramatic change with the facelifted X5 reportedly set to get BMW’s new “curved dash” and latest iDrive 8 infotainment system.
In the iX, this screen layout comprises a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system in one assembly, for a wraparound look.
Expect similar changes to be rolled out across the X6 line, given that model is a coupe SUV version of the X5.
The current X5 features dual 12.3-inch displays in separate housings and runs iDrive 7.
It’s unclear whether there’ll be any changes under the bonnet.
The X5 is currently offered with a sprawling range of powertrains, including four-cylinder (xDrive25d) and six-cylinder (xDrive30d) turbo-diesels, a turbocharged inline-six petrol (xDrive40i), a plug-in hybrid version of that (xDrive45e), and twin-turbo V8 petrols (M50i, X5 M).
Some markets also get a turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine.
How important is the X5 to BMW? Despite being one of its most expensive SUVs, it was the brand’s third best-selling vehicle in Australia in 2021.
With 3173 sales, it was behind only the 3 Series (3982) and X3 (4242).
In the large luxury SUV segment, it was also outsold only by the Mercedes-Benz GLE Wagon (3591). It’s also a strong seller in the US, a much larger market which also happens to be where it’s built.
Pictured: current X5 M 
Pictured: current X5 
MORE: Everything BMW X5
