2024 BMW X5 facelift photos appear online early

Images of the facelifted 2024 BMW X5 have leaked online – ahead of an expected unveiling next month – displaying an exterior design with heavy influence from the car-maker’s existing SUV line-up.

Images published to social media platform Instagram by @wilcoblok and @cochespias1 uploaded the images of the X5’s upcoming mid-life facelift – a ‘Life Cycle Impulse’ (LCI) in BMW terminology.

The lower portion of the updated BMW X5’s front bumper has been revised to be more squared-off compared to the existing SUV, which was last updated when the current generation launched in 2019.

Certain design elements of BMW’s recently-updated X1, X3 and X7 SUVs are also incorporated into the new X5, such as a pair of vertical brake ducts on the outer edges of the front bumper and matte silver trim around its lower radiator inlet.

The BMW X5’s headlights have also been revised – housing a new daytime-running light signature – while the tail-lights house a new signature, and forgo a clear strip for the reversing lights.

A pair of red reflectors have moved down to the top edge of the X5’s lower rear bumper, which now incorporates both exhaust outlets and features similar matte silver trim to the front end.

The social media posts don't include any images of the updated X5’s interior, although it’s likely to adopt BMW’s new iDrive 8 in-car computer system with a twin-screen dashboard. 

In the recently-facelifted 3 Series, a 14.9-inch infotainment screen is teamed with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display within an integrated curved panel. 

According to overseas reports, engines across the X5 are slated to be upgraded for the facelift – including a power increase for the xDrive 40i petrol model pictured here from 250kW to 275kW, and a new V8 engine for flagship M models.

Reports out of Europe claim the 2023 BMW X5 may be unveiled in February.

Australian showroom arrival timing is yet to be confirmed, but reports indicate production may start in April – which would correlate to first local deliveries in the middle of the year.

In 2022, the BMW X5 was Australia’s best-selling large SUV with a price tag of more than $70,000, with the car-maker reporting 3111 examples sold.

The X5 is also BMW’s second-most popular new car in Australia, trailing only the smaller X3 SUV in the brand’s sales charts.