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[PHOTOS] X5 xDrive40e SUV: BMW’s New Plug-In Hybrid Uses eDrive

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Silver plug-in BMW X5 xDrive40e SUV front at night
Following the success of BMW‘s ActiveHybrid line–and, more recently, its i3 and i8 electric vehicles–the automaker is getting ready to release a brand new hybrid version of its X5 crossover. The X5 xDrive40e uses BMW’s EfficientDynamics eDrive to be the first X model in BMW’s history to offer a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The X5 xDrive40e’s eight-speed Steptronic transmission draws its power from a lithium-ion battery (located under the luggage compartment), which can be conveniently recharged using any public charging station, BMW i Wallbox, or standard household power socket. The charge can be checked remotely with the BMW Remote App.

The vehicle’s hybrid integration can be activated via the EfficientDynamics eDrive button on the center console. The AUTO setting instantly boosts the X5’s power output when accelerating, going from 0 to 62 mph in 6.8 seconds. The MAX setting switches to all-electric power for 19 miles–perfect for zero-emission, around-town commuting. The final eDrive setting, SAVE, can allow the battery to recover its charge rather than drain it further, relying entirely on the four-cylinder, TwinPower Turbo petrol engine.

Silver plug-in BMW X5 xDrive40e SUV rear end

If you’re worried this all-wheel-drive sport utility vehicle will lose its core appeal, BMW hasn’t lost sight of what makes the X5 popular. It still has competitive luggage space, folding seats, and a high-quality interior. The popular Design Pure Experience, Pure Excellence, and M Sport packages can also be added, if desired. That’s in addition to the standard features like the Adaptive Suspension Package and Dynamic Damper Control. However, it doesn’t come with an awkward grandmother in the backseat, like in the commercials.