Electrification isn’t just a buzzword these days—it’s becoming a way of life. Not only are we chasing high fuel efficiency numbers, we also appreciate carbon neutrality more than ever. Advances in technology mean we can have vehicles that offer strong performance, great fuel economy, and low emissions.
One way to have the best of all worlds is a plug-in hybrid vehicle or PHEV. But how does it work, and what are its advantages? We can give you a basic explainer, but since we have access to the new BMW X5 xDrive50e, we’ll use this magnificent machine as an explanation.
PHEV 101
As the name implies, a PHEV is a hybrid that can be charged by, well, plugging it in. The main difference between a typical hybrid and a PHEV is that the latter has a much bigger battery, but usually not as big as a pure EV. Unlike EVs, PHEVs can recharge their battery from the engine, giving them much more range.
In the case of the X5 xDrive50e, it pairs the latest generation of the 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo in-line-six engine to a compact electric motor, connected to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.
What are the advantages?
As mentioned above, PHEVs come with far greater battery capacities than hybrids, allowing them to travel further on electric power alone. That makes them ideal for daily commutes and heavy traffic situations. Various drive modes are also available to further extend the car’s electric-only range, lean more on the engine, or use a balance of electric and engine drive.
Since a PHEV can be plugged in or self-charged, there is virtually no range anxiety. With a smaller battery, charging to full is also faster compared to pure electric vehicles. But even with the battery depleted, the car can still operate like a normal hybrid to provide optimum efficiency and performance. In many ways, a plug-in hybrid is two cars in one.
Then there’s our favorite part—performance. By combining the power of the engine and the instantaneous torque that electric motors provide, PHEVs can be seriously rapid, not just off the line but also when overtaking. Passing other cars becomes effortless, giving drivers more confidence on the road.
BMW X5 xDrive50e: The stats
With the TwinPower Turbo in-line-six engine alone, the X5 xDrive50e puts out 313hp and 450Nm of torque. The gearbox-integrated electric motor then produces 197hp and 280Nm. With those two working in tandem, the electrified X5 gets a staggering total system output of 489hp and 700Nm of torque, far surpassing the six-cylinder combustion-powered models.
With figures like that, the plug-in hybrid X5 can do the 0-100kph sprint in just 4.8sec. On top of that, it can run on electric drive alone up to 140kph, ensuring efficiency even at highway speeds.
Just as important to this model is efficiency. BMW’s latest generation of plug-in hybrids brings a large 25.7kWh battery for longer range. At the same time, the new Combined Charging Unit doubles the maximum AC charging rate to 7.4 kWh for fast top-ups. These advances in electrification now give this X5 an electric-only range of up to 118km per full charge.
The result is a fuel-economy rating of over 100km/L (depending on traffic conditions and battery charge), along with a battery consumption of 4.36km/kWh. In pure hybrid mode with no battery charge, the X5 xDrive50e can still return up to 10.41km/L in mixed driving conditions—an impressive feat for a large SUV.
Efficiency and luxury in one compelling package
But the new X5 PHEV isn’t just about saving fuel. This electrified Sports Activity Vehicle brings its occupants to their destination in maximum comfort, convenience, safety, and style.
The X5 xDrive50e comes with the M Sport package, with unique bumper designs and 21-inch alloy wheels exclusive to this variant. Meanwhile, its Iconic Glow grille lights up the darkness to give off a distinct signature on the road.
Inside, sports seats keep the front occupants in place. The cabin is finished in leather trim and Poplar Grain open-pore wood for that organic feel. Audiophiles will adore the Harman Kardon surround sound System, while quad-zone climate control keeps all vehicle occupants cozy and comfortable.
On the technology front, the new X5 features the latest BMW Live Cockpit Plus display. Its wide, curved screen is home to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen that packs iDrive Operating System 8.5. More convenience is at your fingertips with smartphone integration that includes Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and there’s no more cluttered wires thanks to the wireless charging tray. On top of that, Connected Drive serves as an onboard concierge service, allowing its users to explore hotspots such as restaurants, malls, and hotels.
The new X5 xDrive50e also looks out for its drivers with the Driving Assistant Professional system. It comes with niceties such as Highway Assistant and adaptive cruise control with steering assist, lane-keep assist, active blind-spot detection, and autonomous emergency braking. There’s even a drive recorder. Handle every parking situation with ease with the Automatic Park Assistant that stops and steers the X5 in place, while the hugely helpful backup assistant automatically steers the vehicle on the previously driven path.
Guiltless performance with business-class trappings—that’s how BMW defines its plug-in hybrid vehicles. The 2025 BMW X5 xDrive50e is now available in the Philippines priced at P6,990,000. Visit the nearest BMW dealership to learn more and drive one home today.
Created in partnership with BMW Philippines
