2014 BMW X5 gets a rear-drive only option

The 3rd generation BMW X5 heaves an SUV load of technology on the original X5 modus operandi and optionally drops a couple of driven wheels.

The biggest functional change between the 2nd and 3rd generation X5 is the incorporation of a rear-wheel-drive-only model. The X5 sDrive35i variant is powered by the familiar 3.0 liter "TwinPower" turbocharged inline six. This is great for the lone X5 buyer that longs for burnouts, but realistically it is an option for people who don't need AWD and will appreciate a few extra mpg.

For the all-wheel drive models, engine options are the familiar 4.4 liter "TwinPower" turbocharged V8 in the xDrive50i, and a new 3.0 liter "TwinPower" turbocharged diesel I-6 available in the xDrive35d. It is a safe bet that more Americans will still opt for the 8-cylinder turbo whoosh instead of the torquey diesel.

All available engines have their power transmuted through an eight-speed automatic, and the new transmission is noted as having a new "ECO PRO" mode. This super-efficiency mode varies everything from engine control, to the seat heaters, and has the ability to disengage the engine from the driveline under coast conditions. It should increase overall efficiency, but at what level of driver aggravation remains to be seen.

As with pervious generations of the X5, the Bavarian SUV can be heavily optioned to suit individual preference and features 11 different color choices, and three vaguely similar trim lines. Of course there is the typical suite of technology everywhere to differentiate the X5 from the other i-SUVs from Germany, and for early adopters, it is worth noting that X5s produced after December of 2013 will also get a new feature called Traffic Jam Assistant that control speed AND direction up to 25mph. The driverless car is here, and it is an SUV.

Interestingly, even with all the new tech, the X5 has lost some heft. The xdrive35i is quoted as being 170 lbs lighter, and the xDrive50i has lost 230 lbs. Dynamically good, and it won't hurt efficiency, either.

The X5 will be available for purchase in the 4th quarter of 2013 and pricing has yet to be announced.