BMW X5 UNVEILED

new straight-six diesel engine with Variable Twin Turbo technology, available in South Africa for the first time, and a wide range of fuel-saving improvements also featured in all other engine variants allows the BMW X5, launched here just over a year ago, to further extend its lead in the premium Sports Activity Vehicle segment.

Developing maximum output of 210 kW and peak torque of 580 Newton-metres, the new diesel engine gives the BMW X5 3.0sd outstanding grunt and torque on average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 8.2 litres/100 kilometres.

The balance of driving dynamics and fuel consumption quite unique in this vehicle segment is based on the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy now also benefiting BMW’s highly successful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).

Also featured on the three other petrol and diesel engine variants of the BMW X5, these cutting-edge technologies in the 2008 model year provide fuel economy and emission ratings 4 – 7 per cent better than on the former models.

Significant progress in the area of efficiency adds a new facet to the already highly versatile character of the BMW X5. Within its segment BMW’s Sports Activity Vehicle already ranks unique thanks to its outstanding dynamic driving qualities. Indeed, BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive concept promotes not only driving dynamics on the road, but also the vehicle’s traction and handling qualities off the beaten track. And in its outstanding design, this five-door performer combines the robustness of an SAV with sheer elegance and superior presence. Both the driver and passengers are surrounded within the interior of the BMW X5 by a truly luxurious ambience, at the same time benefiting from the generosity and flexible use of the interior.

Featuring an optionally available third row of seats, this SAV is the first-ever BMW able to accommodate up to seven occupants. So considering this transport capacity, the efficiency of the engines enhanced to an even higher level gains even greater significance, the BMW X5 offering incomparable driving pleasure combined with outstanding practical value in relation to its fuel consumption.

The engine: even more dynamic, even more efficient – and for the first time with Variable Twin Turbo technology.

To show a clear sign of supremacy, a car – just like a human being – has to be a leader. And the new BMW X5 3.0sd expresses this leadership clearly in its engine technology. Furthermore, the progressive character of the car is borne out not least by the unique implementation of BMW EfficientDynamics also in this segment.

Forming a major highlight in BMW engine development, the technologies introduced in and through BMW EfficientDynamics to reduce both fuel consumption and exhaust emissions are featured consistently in the new BMW X5 3.0sd and throughout the BMW X5 range.

A particular highlight is the world’s most powerful and dynamic three-litre straight-six diesel offering its supreme power and efficiency in the BMW X5 3.0sd. Displacing 3.0 litres, the new power unit features an all-aluminium crankcase, Variable Twin Turbo (VTT) technology and third-generation common rail fuel injection to develop maximum output of 210kW, plus maximum torque of 580 Newton-metres (Nm).

Referred to also as two-stage turbocharging, the VTT System is made up of two turbochargers varying in size. First, the small turbocharger cuts in at low engine speeds allowing the engine to develop superior power and torque spontaneously and without the slightest delay in response to even the smallest movement of the accelerator pedal thanks to its low level of inertia. Then, with engine speed increasing, the second, larger turbocharger also cuts in, giving the engine its maximum torque at just 1,750 rpm, with maximum engine power at 4,400 rpm.

The new high-performance diesel clearly expresses its sporting character in accelerating to 100 km/h, an exercise completed by the BMW X5 3.0sd in 7.0 seconds. Top speed in turn, is limited electronically to 235 km/h.

To enhance comfort on long distances to an even higher standard, the wide range of attractive options on the BMW X5 gives the driver, and his or her passengers, supreme freedom of choice and enjoyment. An additional option being introduced in the 2008 model year is a TV function for on-board entertainment of the rear-seat passengers. As an alternative to the DVD video programme, this system allows the transmission of TV signals to the 8-inch folding flat screen monitor on the centre console.

The dynamic character of the BMW X5 makes it quite unique in its segment but this nature is further highlighted in truly authentic style by the M Sports Package for an even more intense and visually attractive experience.

Apart from special bumpers, side-sills and door running strips, the flared wheel arches also come in characteristic M design. As an alternative to the 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design on the M Sports Package, the customer may also choose optionally available M light-alloy wheels in 20-inch format. In both cases the BMW X5 comes with different sizes of tyres on the front and rear axle geared specifically to the vehicle.

A high-speed set-up and the sports suspension also included in the M Sports Package round off the wide range of improvements serving to enhance driving dynamics.

Within the interior of the BMW X5 with its M Sports Package, in turn, the unique driving experience is enhanced to an even higher level by electrically adjustable sports seats for the driver and front passenger, the M leather steering wheel, interior trim in aluminium stretch polish design, and the BMW Individual roof lining in Anthracite.

Pricing

BMW X5 3.0sd R652 500

M Sport Package R47 000 to R53 000 in addition to base price