BMW X5 model range grows to five
Brandishing 200kW of power and 315Nm of torque, the inline six-cylinder engine in the 3.0si X5 models is 18 percent more powerful and produces 5 perent more torque than its predecessor. The new engine uses a magnesium/aluminium crankcase that results in a 10 kg weight saving over the previous 3.0-litre engine and utilises the fully variable valvetronic valve drive system, as well as variable double-Vanos camshaft control to provide a high power output with fast-acting accelerator response across all engine speeds. Equipped as standard with the BMW six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, the X5 3.0si is capable of sprinting from zero to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds. Despite this swift turn of speed, the efficiency of the engine allows it to return a combined fuel consumption of 11.7 litres/100 km - representing a nine percent improvement over the previous 3.0-litre engine.
The six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission uses new torque converter technology and efficient software to help reduce reaction and gearshift times by as much as 50 percent. The transmission is controlled by an electronic gear selector and there is a push-button parking brake selector for improved convenience and efficiency. The X5 3.0si models continue the BMW Sport Activity Vehicle's role as the premium vehicle in its segment with class leading dynamics and a range of driving stability systems that ensure maximum safety across a wide range of road conditions. With standard equipment including DSC III, which incorporates HDC Hill Descent Control, DBC Dynamic Brake Control, ABS anti-lock braking, ASC-X Automatic Stability Control, ADB-X Automatic Differential Brake, DTC Dynamic Traction Control and TSC Trailer Stability Control, the 3.0si BMW X5 offers car-like on road agility and safety.
As with other X5 models, the 3.0si also utilises the refined BMW xDrive AWD system that reduces both under and oversteer by distributing engine power between front and rear axles. The 3.0si X5 models benefit from the new suspension system developed for the E70 that uses a unique double wishbone design at the front, and an integral IV rear axle. The new suspension was designed from the ground up to give the X5 first class levels of handling and road holding. The AdaptiveDrive anti-roll suspension optionally available in the 3.0si X5 models gain BMW's new FlexRay high-speed data transmission system that transfers data between the individual suspension control systems at lightning-fast speed. With its torsionally rigid, aerodynamic and weight optimised body shell - which weighs virtually the same as the previous model - the longer and wider E70 BMW X5 offers even greater interior space and versatility with increased luggage space and more leg, shoulder and headroom than ever. A third row seating option with three-point inertia reel seat belts allows the X5 to carry as many as seven passengers and is available on both X5 3.0si models.
Pricing starts at $85,000 for the 3.0si, rising to $94,500 for the 3.0si Executive and $118,300 for the 4.8i.