BMW X5 and X6 to receive touchscreen displays from summer
BMW will introduce touchscreen functionality to the X5 and X6 SUVs via a navigation system update, following the lead set by the 7 Series sedan.
BMW will add touchscreen technology to the X5 and X6 SUVs starting in summer 2016, expanding the feature beyond the 7 Series and marking a shift in its infotainment approach. The update will be delivered through a revision of the navigation system, allowing future X5 and X6 models to offer both touchscreen and traditional iDrive controller inputs.
The change brings BMW’s large SUVs in line with rivals that have already moved to touch interfaces, while maintaining the familiar iDrive rotary controller on the centre console. The move follows the debut of the new 7 Series, which introduced both touchscreen and gesture control to BMW’s infotainment range. However, the X5 and X6 will not receive gesture control in this update. That feature is reserved for the next generation of the SUVs, which are expected to arrive after 2016.
Touchscreen and iDrive to coexist
BMW has long differentiated its infotainment systems by relying on the iDrive controller, even as competitors shifted to touchscreens. The introduction of touch control in the X5 and X6 signals a response to changing customer expectations, particularly among buyers familiar with smartphones and tablets. The interface will support typical touch gestures such as swipe, scroll, pinch to zoom and drag, mirroring the functionality already seen in the 7 Series.
Despite the new touchscreen, the iDrive controller will remain standard. This dual approach aims to accommodate both traditional BMW customers and those preferring direct screen interaction. The navigation system update is expected to roll out in late summer 2016, with the X5 M and X6 M performance variants also set to receive the new hardware in due course.
What this means for buyers and BMW’s SUV line-up
For buyers, the addition of a touchscreen interface offers greater flexibility in how they interact with the car’s infotainment system. It also brings the X5 and X6 closer to the technology standards set by newer BMW models and competing luxury SUVs. The retention of the iDrive controller ensures that those who prefer tactile controls are not left behind.
