SPIED: BMW's Working On An Updated iDrive Controller For Next-Gen X5

As we've mentioned previously, the BMW X5 is a high volume product for BMW. So, that means two things: 1) BMW can't make a mistake with any new X5, and 2) It's a good vehicle to advance upcoming technology that will transcend across the BMW line up.

And it appears that we're seeing more of that with the all-new X5 that's on its way. Spy photographs are depicting the latest and greatest innovations coming from the Bavarians and it seems to be a pretty logical step from where the marque currently sits.

The two biggest shifts will be in the iDrive controller. As you can see in our cover image, BMW appears to be testing out a touch-sensitive controller. Would this only complicate matters or make navigating through the system easier?

In addition, the photographs indicate that it is varying between two different gauge pods. Will BMW go with a full black panel display? Time will tell.


The next generation 2014 X5 (F15) continues its cold weather testing and our spies have spotted the F15 interior for the first time. Below are images of two different prototype X5s, each having different gauges and iDrive buttons. It seems that final designs on those two parts have not yet been finalized and are still undergoing evaluation. The first design seen below shows a larger iDrive button design which features a touchpad surface on top. This dash also features a full black panel display.

Following on the design of the new 6 series (F12/13), 1 series hatchback (F20/21) and new 3 series (F30), the next X5 will feature a large free-standing navigation/infotainment LCD screen. This screen looks to the 8.8 inch panel used in the 6 series and the all new 3 series...

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pepito66 - 2/12/2012 9:08:44 AM

+1 Boost

All about improvement sound great to me, always.

skytop - 2/12/2012 1:07:54 PM

+2 Boost

Touch sensitive controls are a trap and possibly dangerous.

While driving, hand tension, pot holes, swerving, inadvertent pressure or passenger jostle can send the system into the wrong menu or activate something or change settings causing major aggravation.

Touch sensitivity is good in the bedroom but not in your auto.

Agent00R - 2/12/2012 1:52:21 PM

+2 Boost

@skytop

You may have very well just won "comment of the year," and it's only February. Well done.

Agreed, touch sensitivity is pretty annoying -- specifically, when you're driving at high speed.

quizz - 2/12/2012 1:14:26 PM

+1 Boost

Looking forward to the updated 3.0 turbodiesel as well.

david999 - 2/13/2012 12:12:55 PM

+1 Boost

I agree, touch sensitivity devices while driving is not a good idea.