Revealed last year, the BMW X5 (G05) xDrive45e replaced the previous generation X5 (F15) xDrive40e which was one of BMW Malaysia’s popular SUV or as they call it, SAV model.

The BMW X5 (G05) is currently available in only one variant, the xDrive40i M Sport that is fully imported (CBU) and is priced at RM 618,800. It is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six engine that makes 340 PS and 450 Nm of torque.

In the plug-in hybrid variant, the xDrive45e is also powered by the same engine albeit in a more efficient tune with 286 PS/450 Nm. An electric motor with 113 PS/265 Nm sits between the engine and the 8-speed automatic transmission to produce a total output of 394 PS and 600 Nm of torque.

In the previous X5 (F15) xDrive40e, it uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor that makes a combined power of 313 PS and 450 Nm of torque. In full EV mode, it can travel up to 31 km and tops out at 120 km/h.

The new X5 (G05) xDrive45e has a fully electric range of between 67 to 87 km in the WLTP cycle and maxes out at 135 km/h.

What’s more interesting is the claimed fuel consumption; the X5 (F15) xDrive40e has a claimed fuel consumption of 3.3L/100 km and that’s based on the old NEDC test cycle, the X5 (G05) xDrive45e has a claimed fuel consumption of 1.2-1.9L/100 km on the WLTP cycle.

Despite the larger capacity engine and overall output level, the new X5 hybrid appears to be more efficient. In terms of boot space however, they are identical for both generations at 500 litres, 1720 litres with the rear seats folded down.

Should the X5 xDrive45e arrive here in Malaysia, we presume it would be locally assembled (CKD) and likely to replace the current CBU X5. It's also likely to be in the same M Sport trim.

Depending on the government incentives for CKD hybrids, the X5 (G05) plug-in hybrid would be a great addition to the lineup.