The fifth-generation BMW X5 is pushing further into luxury territory, combining Neue Klasse design and technology with a range of powertrain options and an unusual new feature: optional automatic doors. The system allows the doors to open and close electrically through sensors, interior controls, the My BMW App, voice commands and even the brake pedal.
How the BMW X5 Automatic Doors Work
BMW’s latest How-To video shows that operating the automatic doors requires very little effort. Instead of conventional exterior pull handles, the X5 uses small BMW Winglets positioned near the window line.
Touch the appropriate sensor and the door unlatches before opening under electric power. Touch the sensor again and the door closes. Passengers can also operate the system using buttons mounted on the interior door panels.
The driver has additional options. Open doors can be closed through the 17.9-inch center display or by using a voice command. Once seated, the driver can also press the brake pedal to automatically close the driver’s door.
Remote operation is available through the My BMW App, which also allows owners to determine which doors should open as they approach the vehicle. This could be useful when loading children or helping a passenger, while allowing drivers to limit the system to a single door in tight parking spaces.
Safety Features Protect Against Obstacles
The BMW X5’s automatic doors are designed to detect potential obstacles before the doors swing open. Radar sensors integrated into the vehicle’s side skirts monitor the surrounding area.
BMW says the system can prevent the doors from opening into another vehicle, a wall, a cyclist or a pedestrian. The automaker also says the radar-based setup allows the doors to operate more quickly than systems using different sensor technology.
If the powered mechanism becomes unavailable, a servo mode allows the doors to be opened manually without requiring unusual effort.
BMW X5 Joins a Growing Group of Cars With Automatic Doors
Automatic doors remain an uncommon feature, but BMW is not using the technology for the first time. Within the BMW lineup, the system first appeared on the current 7 Series and electric i7.
Those models can similarly operate their doors through interior controls, the My BMW App, voice commands and the brake pedal.
Rolls-Royce has offered powered doors for years on models including the Phantom, Ghost, Spectre and Cullinan. The BMW X5 is therefore receiving technology that has already appeared on considerably more expensive vehicles within the broader BMW Group.
Outside the group, the Tesla Model X combines electrically powered front doors with its signature Falcon Wing rear doors. Audi is also moving in the same direction, with the latest Q7 and larger Q9 offering optional automatic doors with obstacle detection and app-based operation.
The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV features automatic comfort doors at all four corners, while the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class offers powered rear doors.
The BMW X5 Moves Further Upmarket
The fifth-generation BMW X5, known as the G65, retains the proportions and apparent versatility associated with the model while adding Neue Klasse design and technology.
Depending on the market, buyers will eventually be able to choose from gasoline, diesel, plug-in hybrid, battery-electric and hydrogen powertrains. BMW Panoramic iDrive, an available passenger display and cabin materials ranging from glass to natural slate further emphasize the model’s move upmarket.
The automatic doors are among the G65’s new features, but they may be the clearest expression of its luxury ambitions. A feature once associated primarily with much more expensive vehicles is now available on BMW’s X5.
