Its predecessor paved the way for a brand new type of vehicle. Now the new BMW X5 raises the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) driving experience to an even higher standard. Powerful eight and six-cylinder engines, unique suspension, enhanced BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a weight-optimized bodyshell with extreme torsional stiffness all interact to ensure excellent agility and dynamic performance.
As it was with the original, the goal was to offer the customer a generously dimensioned, luxuriously appointed and, at the same time, highly robust premium vehicle. With BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive and greater ground clearance the X5 possesses all the requirements for venturing out on rough terrain. By combining these attributes with outstanding on-road driving dynamics, BMW has initiated a completely new trend in the global vehicle market.
Significant ground clearance and the high, command seating position continue to characterize the unique driving experience. At the same time the interior is even more flexible than before and, for the first time, allows the integration of an optional, third row of seats. Just as with the original, the interior of the new X5 is characterized by premium flair and a wide range of features which set new standards for vehicles in this segment.
The new BMW X5 is the first vehicle in its class to offer Active Steering as an option. This advanced system developed by BMW offers the right steering ratio at all speeds. Up to a speed of approximately 90 kph, steering behaviour is more direct, meeting the requirements of sporting and active driving. Another advantage is that the driver only has to turn the steering wheel twice from lock to lock. At higher speeds, on the other hand, the Active Steering transmission is more indirect, enhancing the directional stability of the vehicle and, accordingly, driving comfort.
Carefully coordinated interaction of the anti-roll bars and shock absorbers by way of AdaptiveDrive, part of the Sport Package, is equally unique in this SAV's segment. The combination of Active Roll Stabilization and Electronic Damping Control gives the new BMW X5 a standard of handling capability and ride quality never seen before in a vehicle of this kind. The FlexRay high-speed data transmission system is used for the first time in the industry for fast and reliable coordination of all AdaptiveDrive functions.
The new BMW X5 remains sure-footed and agile in every situation and on every surface thanks largely to BMW's intelligent, full-time xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Under normal driving conditions, drive forces are spread out front-to-rear in a 40 : 60 split. Reacting extremely quickly and precisely, xDrive ensures variable power distribution front-to-rear as soon as a specific driving situation or surface conditions require.
To perform this function, BMW xDrive features a center differential with an electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch which feeds the power of the engine to where it can be used to best effect. Hence, this all-wheel-drive system, which was introduced by BMW, offers a level of security in spirited driving. BMW xDrive supports yet another feature typical of the BMW X5 by ensuring maximum traction on difficult surfaces. Here again, variable control instantaneously shifts drive power to the axle with better grip thereby ensuring maximum stability and traction under all circumstances.
Boasting an even higher standard of performance for optimum comfort, convenience and function, Dynamic Stability Control on the new BMW X5 makes a particularly important contribution to safe and active driving. The basic functions of the overall DSC system include ABS brakes, Automatic Stability Control, Dynamic Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, Dynamic Brake Control which maximizes brake pressure whenever required for particularly powerful deceleration, Cornering Brake Control which helps to prevent the vehicle from "turning into" a bend when applying the brakes lightly and – as the name implies – Trailer Stability Control.
Automatic Differential Brake, another highly sophisticated electronic system, helps keep the driver in control by automatically applying the brakes on a wheel about to lose traction.
BMW's new DSC system further enhances safety through various additional functions. First, Brake Fade Compensation works to counteract any decrease in brake power at extremely high temperatures by increasing brake forces accordingly (anti-fading support). Brake Standby provides a moderate build-up of brake forces in emergency situations which may require sudden deceleration. Brake Drying, as yet another example, optimizes the performance of the brakes in the wet, while the start-off assistant makes it easier to start off on an uphill grade.
The high-performance brake system in the new BMW X5, supported by the wide range of new DSC functions, ensures excellent stopping power in every situation. Vented discs on all four wheels ensure maximum braking efficiency. Brake disc diameters on the BMW X5 3.0si are 13.1 inches in front and 12.6 in the rear. On the X5 4.8i, in turn, the corresponding measurements are 13.7 and 13.6 inches respectively.
The new BMW X5 is the first vehicle in its class with runflat tyres standard. Runflat tyres allow the driver to go on driving even after a complete loss of tyre pressure. The driver can continue up to 90 miles at a speed up to 80 kph even with the vehicle fully loaded.
Both models of the new BMW X5 come standard with 18-inch light-alloy wheels with 255/55 all-season tyres. Larger 19-inch light-alloy wheels with all-season tyres are included with the optional sports package. On the X5 4.8i with Sport Package, 20 inch wheels with 275/40 front and 315/35 rear performance tyres may be ordered. Here again, the tyres are runflats. The standard Tyre Pressure Monitor warns the driver of a gradual loss of air pressure.
The V8 in the BMW X5 4.8i offers a high level of performance at all times. Upgraded and renewed in virtually every respect, this top-of-the-line engine develops a maximum output of 350 hp. The V8 in the new BMW X5 4.8i develops maximum torque of 474 Nm from 3,400 to 3,800 rpm, offering efficient dynamics of the highest standard. Accelerating from a standstill to 96 kph in 6.4 seconds, this top-end model will not disappoint the true driving enthusiast.
The inline-six in the new BMW X5 3.0si likewise reflects the latest state of the art in engine design. Maximum output is 260 hp, peak torque of 305 Nm comes at 2,750 rpm. The BMW X5 3.0si accelerates to 96 kph in 7.8 seconds.
The new BMW X5 comes standard with a six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission enhanced to an even higher level than before. The automatic transmission is controlled by a new electronic gear selector featured for the first time on the new BMW X5. The new electronic gearshift selector lever moves back to its starting position after each use.
Transmission management is now no longer mechanical, but is effected through electrical signals. The parking position, for example, is activated by pressing the P button on the upper side of the selector lever. Then, to select a drive gear manually, all the driver has to do is press the selector lever to the left and is now able to shift gears sequentially by hand. To shift up, pull the selector lever back and to shift down, push the selector lever forwards.
With its longer wheelbase, the new BMW X5 achieves a significantly higher standard of stability and presence. The stretched side section borders at the rear on the powerful D-pillar. The lines of all pillars come together to form an appropriately shortened roofline supporting the overall impression of elegance and athleticism. A further sign of the high standard of flexibility offered by the new X5 is the option of third row seats. This provides adequate space for two more passengers comfortably accommodating occupants up to approximately 5´ 6´´ in height.
Enhanced comfort in the third row seats is ensured by separate heating and ventilation nozzles. When the seats aren't needed, they may be stowed individually into the floor of the luggage compartment, completely out of sight. This provides a large cargo area from front to rear together with the second row seats folded down. Passengers in the second row of seats enjoy about 1.5 inches more kneeroom than in the former model. Regardless of the number of seats being used, generous space is always offered behind the two-piece tailgate. The cargo floor is now almost 4 inches longer than before.
Given its body structure and wide range of safety features, the new BMW X5 offers all the prerequisites for performing in all relevant crash tests with flying colors. In creating the overall concept of passive and active safety, the engineers have also carefully considered the latest results in BMW accident research, giving the new BMW X5 not only frontal and hip/thorax airbags, but also curtain Head Protection System as standard features.
There are two leatherette upholsteries available for the X5 3.0si. The leather alternatives include four Nevada leathers, with two Nevada leathers available with perforated leather for the available ventilated seat package. There are also three Napa leather options available for both models. In all there are four trims offered for the X5 3.0si and three for the X5 4.8i.
To properly control and mastermind the navigation, entertainment and communication functions, the new BMW X5 features BMW's trendsetting iDrive control and operation concept. Comfort and communication settings are adjusted by turning, pushing and pressing the iDrive Control on the center console. Functions selected and adjustment options are presented on the Control Display.
As an option, information which is highly relevant to the driver may also be presented on the available Head-Up Display. Data is projected at a very convenient ergonomic position on the windshield. The driver has road speed, navigation instructions, speed control data and warnings provided by BMW Check/Control in clear view at all times.
In addition to the xenon adaptive headlights, the foglights in the new X5 also turn. Each time the driver turns, the light beam for the foglights is guided to the side by a reflector, clearly illuminating the road ahead in the new direction.
Another feature on the new BMW X5 is Dynamic Cruise Control with brake function. It acts on the engine management, the gear selected, and the brakes in order to precisely keep the speed set by the driver. Constantly registering the car's lateral acceleration, Dynamic Cruise Control also recognizes when the X5 is in a bend and reduces the speed of the car accordingly.
Sophisticated navigation and audio systems further enhance the driver's and passengers' traveling comfort in the new BMW X5. DVD video systems for the second row of seats, a CD-changer housed in the glove compartment as well as an innovative multi-channel audio system are among the highlights offered in terms of mobile entertainment. Both the in-dash CD-player as well as the available CD-changer can play MP3 encoded CDs. Even the standard audio system offers 205-watts with 12 speakers, including two sub-woofers mounted under the front seats. The optional premium sound system features 600 watts of power, Dolby 5.1 surround sound and 16 speakers. Thanks to the AUX-IN socket featured as standard, music from external audio sources such as an MP3 player or iPod may also be played through the audio system.
Supplementing the optional Park Distance Control, the new BMW X5 is available with a backup camera – a video system which facilitates parking maneuvers especially in confined areas or places with poor visibility.
Innovative technology, a premium and luxurious ambience, powerful elegance in body design and superb driving dynamics make the new BMW X5 a genuine exception in its segment. The new model continues the tradition of its predecessor, the world's first Sports Activity Vehicle, which set the foundation for a brand-new class of vehicles.
