Sorry, I usually don‘t hit the disagree button but, in this case I really had to.
First, I think the X5 has traditionally been the vehicle introducing new interior elements .... didn‘t the F15 start with the freestanding screen back then, for instance? The X5 has a great reputation at BMW (opposite to the borderline neglected 7er) because it sits between upper business and luxury class but at the same time sells well and is highly profitable. So it’s entirely understandable to me.
Second, this is really clean design. Sure, I would have also preferred the rearlights to be greyed out in the way the new X4 solves it. But basically, all lines make sense, the greenhouse-body composition is practically flawless. Mercedes may use less creases, however, there are still lines running all over the metal. Maybe I can share a more thorough analysis of this later on ...
Edit: Weight kinda disappointing. As is this door deco panel topic. Anxiously waiting for the production version solution. Seems like they are still playing round.
E70 was also the first with that kind of interior, but again, there wasnt x7 back in the days