Read this in The Manila Times digital edition.

THE 2024 BMW X5 and X6 have just made their debut and both have a more updated look that puts the two SUVs in line with the German automaker's current design aesthetic for their range of X models.

Compared to past facelifts made by BMW, the X5 and X6 LCI's (Life Cycle Impulse in BMW's marketing speak for a facelift) changes are not just aesthetic.

The X6 is essentially the "coupe" version of the X5 with its sloping roofline. The front end comes with a revised grille with optional LED illumination and a new bumper design. New LED headlights with arrow-shaped LED daytime running lights are also part of the updates for 2024. The M Sport package is optional on the X5, while the X6 gets it as standard. The M Sport models come with a sportier exterior that's highlighted by a new front bumper with an octagonal lower air intake. Of course, new colors and wheel designs round out the changes for the X5 and X6.

Inside, the 2024 BMW X5 and X6 have even more noticeable updates. The dash design has been revised in order to accommodate the new iDrive 8 infotainment system. The 12.3-inch digital gauges and 14.9-inch main infotainment screen are housed in a single curved glass just like in other BMWs that have received this infotainment update. This also means the removal of the climate control buttons as it's now controlled through voice or via the infotainment itself, but the iDrive controller still lives on here.

Like the X7 and 3 Series, the adoption of iDrive 8 means that the electronic gear shifter has been ditched in favor of a toggle switch instead. Other interior updates include more upholstery and interior trim choices, just to name a few.

As mentioned, the changes made to the 2024 BMW X5 and X6 aren't just aesthetics, because all models benefit from an added dose of electrification, while some even come with a new engine.

For the Philippine market, the X5 and X6 will most likely be sold in xDrive30d form, which means it gets an updated 3.0-liter straight-six diesel that now uses steel pistons instead of aluminum, an optimized oil separation process, as well as a new common-rail direct injection system with solenoid valve injectors. This diesel engine is now mated to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, and the powertrain delivers a total of 298 hp (up from 261 hp) and 670 Nm (up from 620 Nm) of torque.

Other engines are offered in overseas markets as well, including a twin-turbo V8 with a 48-volt mild hybrid system for the M60i, and even a plug-in hybrid model with a longer pure electric range and a much more powerful output than before.

The 2024 BMW X5 and X6 will roll off at the Spartanburg, South Carolina plant beginning in April 2023. Though BMW Philippines has not yet announced or confirmed its local arrival, the popularity of the X5 and the X6 in their respective segments means that their launch is a matter of when and not if.