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The new BMW X5 range has been expanded to five models with the arrival in
Australia of the 3.0si and 3.0si Executive variants, complimenting the
turbodiesel 3.0d and V8-powered 4.8i models launched earlier this year.
Brandishing 200 kW of power and an impressive 315 Nm of torque, the inline
six-cylinder engine in the 3.0si X5 models is 18 per cent more powerful and
produces 5 per cent 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 a
rapid 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
per cent 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 per cent. 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
class-leading levels of handling and road holding that are consistent with the
BMW brand.
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.
The two-piece tailgate folds down to reveal a luggage area measuring 620
litres in five-seat configuration, expanding to as much as 1,750 litres with
just the front seats being used.
The X5 3.0si models also share impressive passive safety credentials with the
3.0d and 4.8i versions, including dual front airbags, side airbags and
full-length curtain airbags with rollover sensors networked with the Dynamic
Stability Control.
Luxury doesn’t take a back seat either, with the upgraded BMW iDrive system
that now includes eight “favourite” buttons standard on all models, as well as
Nevada leather seats, Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear, Runflat safety
tyre indicator, automatic air-conditioning, BMW Professional six-speaker, MP3
compatible six-CD sound system, leather-rimmed multifunction steering wheel, an
onboard computer with 6.5” colour monitor and 18-inch Star Spoke alloy wheels.
The X5 3.0si Executive adds a rear view camera, power seat adjustment with
memory function on the driver’s side, electrically adjusted steering column, BMW
Professional Navigation System with TV and Voice Control, and preparation for
mobile phone Business with Bluetooth interface including mobile handset, cradle
and BMW Assist as standard.
Optional equipment for both X5 3.0si models includes Adaptive Drive,
Self-levelling suspension, Active Steering, Bi-Xenon headlights, Headlight
Assistant, Head-Up Display, Comfort Access, rear DVD system and two-panel
panorama glass roof.
BMW X5 Pricing
| BMW 3.0si |
$85,000 |
| BMW 3.0d |
$86,800 |
| BMW 3.0si Executive |
$94,500 |
| BMW 3.0d Executive |
$96,300 |
| BMW 4.8i |
$118,300 |
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