It seems that the cat is out of the bag and we now think we know what BMW will be highlighting, eco-wise, at this year's Geneva Motor Show. You know all that pleading for more diesel hybrids? According to CarScoop, the boys and girls form Bavaria will be showing off the "Vision EfficeintDynamics" which will be better known as an X5 with a 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel four-cylinder mated to a hybrid system through an eight-speed automatic transmission. According to BMW, the system should apparently be good for 36.5 mpg (US) while still pulling the SUV to 62 mph in 8.9 seconds. The diesel engine produces 204 horsepower, but with help from the hybrid system achieves 224 horsepower and nearly 450 ft.-lb. of torque.
In addition to the hybrid system, this concept version features brake regeneration and roof-mounted solar panels that create energy that can be used to pre-heat the diesel fuel. Thinking aerodynamically, the 19-inch light alloy wheels are sort of Wal-Mart looking but overall efficient. We're waiting for official confirmation, but in the meantime this does fit with comments made by Prof. Dr. Burkhard Goschel from BMW on the future of BMW engines back in 2004. [CarScoop]