BMW X5 xDrive40e plug-in hybrid launched

Traditionally, specifying a diesel engine has been the default solution for BMW X5 buyers wanting to experience comparatively decent fuel economy. Now though there's an alternative in the form of the xDrive40e.

The important part of that name is the 'e' at the end, because it denotes that the new variant is a plug-in hybrid. So as well as a 241 bhp (180 kW / 245 PS) 2.0 litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine, power also comes from a 111 bhp (83 kW / 113 PS) synchronous electric motor which is integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.

BMW X5 xDrive40e (2015) Front Side

Total system output is rated at 308 bhp (230 kW / 313 PS). Delivered to all four wheels, it's enough for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 6.8 seconds. Top speed meanwhile is an electronically-limited 130 mph (210 km/h), but that figure drops to 75 mph (120 km/h) when operating in pure electric mode.

Another pivotal drivetrain component is the 9.0 kWh, 96-cell, lithium-ion battery pack. Housed beneath the luggage compartment floor, it offers an electric-only range of up to 19 miles (31 kilometres).

Recharging via a domestic socket takes around 3 hours 50 minutes from flat to fully replenished. If that's too long, installing a BMW i Wallbox Pure or Pro reduces the time to about 2 hours 45 minutes. Public charging stations can also be used when away from home.

BMW X5 xDrive40e (2015) Rear Side

According to official stats, the X5 xDrive40e achieves an impressive 85.6 mpg (3.3 l/100km) on the combined cycle with standard wheels and tyres. Carbon dioxide emissions in the same configuration are just 77 g/km. Of course, efficiency in real-world conditions might be very different...

Standard equipment is set to include satellite navigation, adjustable dampers, self-levelling rear air suspension and dual-zone climate control with auxiliary heating and ventilation. However, BMW has yet to announce pricing.

Related posts:
Why buying a diesel car might not be wise
2015 BMW X5 M and X6 M first view

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