This week BMW made an announcement that the newly designed 2014 X5 SUV will be available for as much as $53,725 including destination (it is $5,300 more expensive than the model of the previous year).

For 2014, BMW is going to introduce the first rear-wheel drive X5 BMW sDrive35i. Other models comprise the xDrive35i – starts at $56,025, xDrive35d (diesel) – $57,525, and xDrive50i – $69,125.

USA Today states that, “BMW says straight price comparisons aren’t fair,” since the 2014 model’s size is bigger, curb weight is lower and moreover it provides you with notably more standard equipment than it was in 2013 model. Yet, comparing the prices with the main competitors, BMW X5 is still pretty pricy. Including destination, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class is available for as much as $48,175, nearby competitor, the Acura MDX starts at $43,185 and a bit more expensive Porsche Cayenne, which is availalbe at $50,575.

For 2014, the 35i models are equipped with BMW’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, which is the same that was used in 2013 model. It is able to produce 300-hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. The 35d has a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder turbo diesel engine with the following performance rates: 255-hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. It is a loss of 10-hp and 12 lb-ft of torque in comparison to the modle of 2013. The 50i is powered by a 4.4-liter V8 that is able to give its owner 445-hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, and it is an increase of 45-hp and 30 lb-ft of torque if you compare it to the 2013 model. All X5 models are equipped with 8-speed automatic transmission. The EPA hasn’t published fuel consumption information for the updated BMW X5. However, the rate for 2013 xDrive35i is 16/23 mpg city/highway, as for the diesel xDrive35d it shows 19/26 mpg, and the xDrive50i – 14/20 mpg.

As it was stated above, BMW provides 2014 X5 with more standard equipment, such as an engine start-stop feature that allows you to start and stop the engine by pushing a button, a 10.2-inch display iDrive navigation with a touchpad and a 40/20/40 split-folding 2nd-row seat. Also, there is a 3rd-row seat that can place 2 passangers (optional). There are a few trim lines available for each mentioned model of BMW, including the Luxury Line, xLine and M Sport.

The new BMW X5 seems to be “a little squattier” than the 2013 model, however points out the BMW’s reduction of the new model’s curb weight by some 170-230 lbs.
The gas-powered 35i and 50i models will appear in showrooms closer to the end of the current year, and the diesel model will be available in early 2014.