BMW is once again setting the standard for the Sports Activity Vehicle with the new fourth-generation X5. Combining an elegant and strong design with supreme on-and off-road ability, the new X5 has an even greater blend of premium luxury performance and comfort with previous generations selling in excess of 2.2 million examples since the first X5 launched in 1999.

A choice of TwinPower and M Performance petrol and diesel engines are matched to a new eight-speed Steptronic gearbox and the latest version of xDrive for maximum comfort, capability and performance.

With a wheelbase 42mm longer than its predecessor, an increase in vehicle length of 36mm, an extra 66mm of width and a 19mm increase in height, the new BMW X5 has both an imposing appearance and generous levels of space for passengers and their luggage.

Distinctive design features mark out the xLine and M Sport model variants of the new X5. The xLine model adds kidney grille bars in aluminium matt, roof rails and side window surrounds in satin Aluminium, plus other accents in Pearl-effect Chrome. M Sport specification, meanwhile, sees the wheel arch trim, bumper trim, rear underguard and side skirts painted in body colour, plus extra-large air intakes at the front end, aluminium matt kidney grille bars. The roof rails, side window surrounds and other trim elements in high-gloss black flag up the dynamic potential of the SAV.

There is one petrol and two diesel units available from the latest generation of engines. The BMW X5 M50d is powered by a six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with four turbochargers. A six-cylinder inline unit powers the BMW X5 xDrive40i and BMW X5 xDrive30d. All engines channel their power through an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, while BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive is on hand to ensure that power is translated into secure progress – on or off road.

The power unit fitted in the new BMW X5 xDrive40i enjoys free-revving ability and eager response. The 3.0-litre unit employs a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct petrol injection technology generating maximum output of 340hp. The new BMW X5 xDrive40i completes the zero to 62mph sprint in just 5.5 seconds and fuel consumption averages 33.2mpg and CO2 emissions at 193g/km.

The performance of the new BMW X5 M50d is provided by the potent engine at work under its bonnet. From its 3.0-litre displacement the BMW M Performance model’s six-cylinder in-line unit delivers a peak output of 400hp darts to 62mph from rest in 5.2 seconds yet succeeds in posting combined fuel consumption of 41.5mpg and CO2 emissions of 179g/km.

The new BMW X5 xDrive30d is also powered by a straight-six diesel engine, this time with displacement of 3.0 litres and featuring a single turbocharger with output of 265hp and capable of reaching the 62mph mark from rest in 6.5 seconds, returning combined fuel consumption of just 70mpg, equating to CO2 emissions of 158g/km.

The all-new BMW X5 is on sale now with prices starting from £57,495 on-the-road.