The original BMW X5 was a milestone car in two ways: it was the first performance-orientated SUV that subsequent premium brands have followed, and it was the first BMW SUV.

The new-generation car is arguably an iterative development of its predecessor, but critically is responding to two new developments in the sector: the dominance of the seven seat large SUV as defined by the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7; and the introduction of its cheaper sibling, the X3, that is barely smaller than the original X5.

Now with seven seats and a 7.4 inches gain in length, the new X5 is also more conventional relative to the market today than the original was relative to the market when it debuted in 1999 - further substantiation of the quiet corporate shift away from the challenging Bangle-era design direction that we've already seen with the 7 Series facelift and 3 Series coupe.

In the flesh the most notable aspect to the new X5 is just how similar it appears to the outgoing model - nearly the same flared wheel fenders around the wheels, and very similar front, side and rear graphics. But the surfacing is quite different; fluid, calm, innovative and exceptionally well resolved; very 21st century BMW.

Some interesting details include the way the hood surface rolls over the lights and around the grille to stop over a slim secondary mesh grille, and the depth of section to the front fenders (that allows the shut line to work with adjacent surface creases).

Inside there is far greater difference relative to its predecessor with a very fluid and clean aesthetic - note the subtle S-shaped flow of the centre console, the asymmetrical (and slightly effete) gear selector, and the form of the IP in front of the passenge