New X5 and revised 1 Series lob at Melbourne

BMW's second-generation X5 SUV made its Australian public debut at the Melbourne motor show on Friday ahead of its local launch in April.

Bigger, better equipped and loaded with the latest technology, the all-new X5 will also be available with seven seats for the first time.

Three models will be offered: the $86,800 160kW/500Nm 3.0d turbo-diesel the $85,000 200kW/315Nm 3.0si petrol six and the $118,300 261kW/475Nm 4.8i V8.

Both the diesel and V8 will be available when the new SUV hits the streets in April, with the 3.0-litre petrol six due mid-year. All are paired with upgraded six-speed automatics.

The X5 builds on the class-leading dynamics established by the original since 2001. The vehicle uses a new double-wishbone suspension up front and a patented "integral-IV" rear axle with four control arms.

BMW also unveiled its facelifted 1 Series hatchback, due on sale here in June.

Pricing starts from $34,900 for the 116i manual, rising to $38,900 for the 118i, $43,300 for the 120i, $48,000 for the 120d and $63,700 for the 130i.

An automatic transmission is standard on the 120d (unavailable on the 116i), and on the remaining models adds between $2200 and $2600 to the retail price.

The 120d diesel now produces 125kW (up 10kW) and 340Nm (up 10Nm), which in turn brings its 0-100km/h acceleration down from 8.5 seconds to 7.8 seconds. Fuel consumption is 6.1L/100km.

Read more:

First look: BMW reveals its second-gen X5

X5 prices up in line with more technology