The BMW X5 is a big-time money maker for the Bavarians. Ever since its debut in the late 1990s, the X5 has been a raging success. With the higher seating position and the driving dynamics one would come to expect of a BMW, it was ahead of its time back then.
Remember, the Porsche Cayenne didn't exist.
So, that tells us a couple of things:
1) BMW can't afford to mess this one up. It's a high volume seller and its sales for year end 2012 placed third, behind the 3-Series and 5-Series.
2) I'd be doubtful to see BMW really change the vehicle's formula from its current existence. Sure, it'll be more in line from a styling perspective but don't expect anything particularly earth shattering.
Further compounding the point for me were recent spy photos that were submitted thanks to our friend, Fred Khaz. He just so happens to run into just about every development car in SoCal.
Though the vehicle is camouflaged head-to-toe, if you zoom in on the image you'll note the little differences, like the new grille. From what I can tell, it seems the size may have slightly increased but it proportionally looks the same as the current-gen vehicle.
Now, for the bonuses.
Please note the last X5 shot. The center stack will feature that popping up infotainment display that we feel has taken a bit of creative license from Apple's iPad.
And, in addition to the X5 shots there's two images of the BMW 320i wearing California distributor plates. From what I can tell on the east coast, dealers haven't received them in their inventory just yet. Its press release stipulates "late spring 2013," but don't be surprised if they hit lots at the end of April or the start of May.
Seen & Heard — April 2013 Photo Gallery
