The fuel cap at the front fender shows that the prototype was a plug-in hybrid.
The M2, 3 Series facelift /M3 Touring, M4 CSL and the XM all arriving this year, it’s easy to forget that the X5 / X5M will also get a facelift. These spy photos serve to remind the luxury midsize SUV that it will get a facelift in 2022. Car paparazzi discovered a prototype of a plug in hybrid version, as indicated by the fuel cap on driver’s side front bumper.
BMW did not do a good job covering the front bumper, even though it is still camouflaged. It is clearly visible that it has been completely redesigned to allow for more upright air intakes. We immediately think of the new design. Latest 2 Series Coupe The same as the X5, but with larger vents to match its larger footprint. The bumper’s air curtains are quite large and should make a significant impact on fuel consumption, reducing drag, and other aspects of fuel consumption.
Perhaps the disguise is working on us but the headlights look a little slimmer than the pre-LCI version. The XXL grille won’t be included with the facelift, as the kidneys are not extended all the way to the bottom. We aren’t noticing any rear changes. However, that should change for production models since BMW will at least tweak the taillight LED graphics.
The dashboard will be redesigned to allow for a dual-screen layout. This is a reasonable assumption considering that even the 2Series Active Tourer already has the iDrive 8 and will soon be installed on the 3er. The original version was available with the iX or i4 and featured side-by-side screens in a slightly curved housing.
According to rumours, production will not begin until April 2023. This means that the official premiere will be held towards the end this year. Expect an illuminated grille similar to the X6 or the 8 Series facelift when it finally arrives. A new S68 engine for the X5M will be reportedly joined by an updated B58 engine. However, that remains to be confirmed.