2014 BMW X5 launch on May 29

The third generation BMW X5 was introduced to the Indian audience at the 2014 Indian Auto Expo. Although the sheer size of the SUV stunned a select few, the biggest news of the day came when BMW announced that the new X5 will be made as a completely knocked down kit or CKD in India as opposed to the completely built units (CBU) offered earlier. This means that the BMW X5, an SUV that redefined the Sport in Sport Utility Vehicle with its original launch nearly a decade and a half ago will now be much cheaper in India. The new BMW X5 will go up against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class the Audi Q7 and the Land Rover Discovery.

The BMW X5 will be offered in the same 30d configuration as before. The X5 comes with a 3.0-litre, 6-cyliner, twin turbocharged diesel engine that produces a healthy 262PS of power and 560Nm of torque. The biggest advantage of the 30d motor is the way it delivers its maximum torque at revs as low as 1500rpm while maintaining them through the rev band. The BMW X5 comes with Eco Pro, Comfort and Sport settings that help improve the feedback of both the engine-transmission and suspension thereby delivering a much sportier drive.

The BMW X5, should be priced between Rs 60-70 lakh depending on how the owner decides to spec the car. Options include customisable interior trim in collaboration with BMW’s ‘Individual’ program, a set of 20-inch wheels and sportier exterior trim options. The BMW X5 also comes with customisable interior ambient lighting options that allow you to choose from a selection of colours depending on the owner’s whims and fancies. The BMW X5 will be available as standard with 7 seats making this premium an excellent value for money proposition. With the launch scheduled on May 29, 2014, BMW plans to take on the likes of the dominant Mercedes-Benz ML, Audi Q7, Land Rover Discovery along with the likes of the Porsche Cayenne and the soon to be launched Porsche Macan SUV.