2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e, a plug-in hybrid Crossover

BMW TwinPower Turbo and BMW eDrive technologies mated to perfection

The 2.0-litre internal combustion engine fitted in the BMW X5 xDrive40e has already won the coveted title of "International Engine of the Year" three times and features a TwinScroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and variable camshaft control on both the intake and exhaust sides (Double-VANOS). The most powerful fourcylinder petrol unit in the BMW Group's engine portfolio stands out for its eager power delivery, delightfully free-revving performance and highly refined running characteristics. It generates a maximum output of 180 kW/245 hp and 350 Newton metres (258 lb-ft) of peak torque.

2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e

The electric motor puts an output of 83 kW/113 hp on tap, while its maximum torque of 250 Newton metres (184 lb-ft) is available from the word go in typical electric drive fashion. This has the effect of boosting the engine's output for thrilling, instantaneous responsiveness and power build-up with absolutely no delay when accelerating from stationary, as well as far more dynamic performance whenever a quick burst of speed is required. The BMW X5 xDrive40e completes the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in just 6.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). In all-electric drive mode, meanwhile, the vehicle is capable of a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph), again electronically limited.

2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e

BMW xDrive permanent all-wheel drive even in all-electric mode

The power stemming from the two drive units is transformed into effortless forward motion courtesy of the 8-speed Steptronic transmission and the BMW xDrive permanent all-wheel-drive system. The BMW X5 xDrive40e can be optionally equipped with shift paddles on the steering wheel, enabling the driver to swiftly make manual gear selections with the greatest of ease. Regardless of the proportion of drive power being sourced from the engine and motor respectively, xDrive ensures supreme traction in all weather and road surface conditions, together with optimised handling stability and increased agility when powering through corners. An electronically controlled multi-plate clutch provides the basis for fully variable distribution of the drive torque between the front and rear wheels. As it is linked up to the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), the xDrive system is furthermore capable of acting in advance to counter vehicle understeer or oversteer and to always direct drive power in such a way as to optimise the handling dynamics.