2024 BMW X5 and X6 Facelift Brings Extra Power, Better Efficiency

• BMW has updated the X5 and X6 for the 2024 model year, with narrower headlights and redesigned front bumpers on both SUVs.

• A new turbocharged inline-six boosts the base 40i models to 375 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, and, along with the M60i's 4.4-liter V-8, BMW adds a 48-volt hybrid system.

• The plug-in hybrid X5 xDrive 50e's output jumps nearly 100 horsepower and should increase its electric driving range by around 10 miles.

The mid-size X5 SUV was the best-selling BMW in 2022, and it now receives a host of updates for the 2024 model year, with redesigned front and rear ends, a more modern interior with a curved digital display, and a more powerful inline-six engine. The sloped-roof X6—a niche, fashion-conscious alternative to the X5—benefits from the same upgrades as its more sensible sibling, including the 48-volt hybrid system that improves the efficiency of both the inline-six and V-8 motors.

We were certain that the 2024 BMW X5 and X6 would be getting the X7's controversial split-headlight design, but BMW appears to have reversed course, opting for a more conventional look. The slimmer one-piece headlights sit either side of a revised kidney grille that looks relatively small next to the M3's flared nostrils or the i7's huge shield. The X5's wider, rectangular lower intake is sandwiched by vertical vents that coax air around the fenders, boosting efficiency and giving the SUV a planted look. The X5's taillights feature a more intricate design and the X5 now offers an illuminated grille on the 40i and 50e models.

An optional M Sport package on the X5 adds a racier look with more black trim and an octagonal black lower bumper. This package is standard on the X6, and upgrading to the M60i models on both SUVs bring unique details like quad exhaust pipes, black trim, and a small rear spoiler on the X6.

Inside, the dashboard looks more chiseled, with thin air vents and a simplified center console that ditches the traditional gear lever for a small toggle switch. Atop the dash is BMW's new curved display that includes a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen on one long piece of glass, running the latest version of BMW's iDrive operating system. A new ambient light bar glows in front of the passenger seat, and BMW also added a puddle light and pulsating welcome lights in the door opening for a little pizzazz as you enter the vehicles. The seats are now wrapped in a vegan leather-like material called Sensafin.