The latest generation of the BMW X5 has undergone some significant design changes, as explained by BMW’s Senior Vice President of Product Line Luxury Class, Philip Koehn, during an interview at the Spartanburg plant. One of the most notable changes is the elimination of the split tailgate, a feature that Koehn revealed was primarily designed for individuals with long arms like himself, standing at nearly 2 meters tall. He pointed out that the majority of X5 owners found it challenging to reach into the boot with the split tailgate, leading to its removal in the new model.

The decision to remove the split tailgate was not the only design change explained by Koehn. He also discussed the reasoning behind the removal of the third-row seating option in the new X5. According to Koehn, the take rate for the third row was only significant in the UK market, with a global take rate in the single-digit percentage figure. Additionally, there was a packaging conflict with the plug-in hybrid variant, as the battery occupied the space where the third row would be located.

Another design feature that underwent scrutiny was the hidden rear wiper. Koehn explained that the new X5’s roofline did not allow for the same design as the Range Rover, which hides the rear wiper under the spoiler. The X5’s faster-sloping roofline brought the spoiler closer to the glass, making it impractical to hide the wiper without obstructing the driver’s view through the rearview mirror.

On the contrary, the new X5 introduces automatic doors, a feature borrowed from Rolls-Royce luxury vehicles. Koehn, who previously worked at Rolls-Royce, highlighted the advancements in sensor technology that now allow for rear-facing radar to detect cyclists or motorcyclists approaching from behind before the door swings open. This technology was not available in previous years, making it a recent addition to the X5 model.

Overall, the design decisions made by BMW for the new X5 reflect a balance between practicality and functionality. While some features were removed due to limited usability or conflicts with other design elements, new features like automatic doors were introduced to enhance the overall user experience. The evolution of the X5’s design demonstrates BMW’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in the luxury SUV market. Sure, here is the rewritten HTML for immediate WordPress integration: