The eagerly awaited BMW X5 3.0sd, featuring the internationally-acclaimed Twin Turbo 3.0-litre straight-six diesel engine, has begun arriving in BMW showrooms across the country.

The powerful, frugal and clean-running advanced diesel Sport Activity Vehicle is guaranteed to set new performance and efficiency benchmarks in Australia.

One highly-specified model variant of the X5 3.0sd is offered, although a Sport package is also optionally available.

The X5 3.0sd is a born performer with 200 kW of power and a mountainous 565 Nm of torque available from its 3.0-litre straight six, all-aluminium twin-turbo engine.

Fuel consumption is extremely frugal at an average of 8.8 litres per 100 km, and acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes a sports car like 7.2 seconds.

Thanks to advanced engine control and fine-tuning of the turbochargers, the X5 3.0sd boasts CO2 emissions almost identical to the already clean-living X5 3.0d, and around 35 percent lower than some perceived rivals.

The X5 3.0sd also sets the benchmark substantially above its class rivals in terms of acceleration and fuel economy. The X5 3.0sd thus delivers the ultimate in performance and efficiency.

With its intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive and reduced weight, more of the engine’s prodigious power is turned into spirited acceleration. Of course, the acclaimed X5 best-in-class agility ensures this new model is a Sports Activity Vehicle with power, punch and performance.

The X5 3.0sd is specified in line with the X5 3.0d Executive, which means it will come with 18-inch light-alloy wheels, a rear view camera for when reverse is engaged, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, electrically adjustable steering column with memory function, BMW Navigation system Professional with 8.8-inch full colour monitor and analogue and digital Television receiver, preparation for Bluetooth interface Business, Voice Recognition system and BMW Assist.

Like all X5 models, the 3.0sd also features front, side and head airbags, anti-lock brakes with Dynamic Traction Control, Hill Descent Control, rain sensing wipers, automatic driving lights, multifunction steering wheel controls, iDrive with eight favourite buttons, cruise control with braking function, engine start/stop button, six-stacker CD player, and leather upholstery.

The Sport package comprises Sport suspension settings, Sport leather steering wheel, 19-inch light-alloy wheels, front Sport seats, BMW Individual high-gloss Satin Chrome trim, and anthracite BMW Individual roof lining.

The success of the new BMW X5 in Australia and around the world has been due to its dynamic performance, elegant but powerful looks, luxurious ambience and large functional interior, which offers the option of seats for seven for the first time.

The Variable Twin Turbo engine employs advanced turbo charging technology. Two turbochargers of different size are connected in series. Thanks to its low inertia, the smaller charger is capable of developing its full effect at low revs, without lag. As engine speed rises, the larger turbocharger gradually takes over. This combination ensures immediate and impressive power delivery, even at high revs.

The BMW X5 3.0sd is priced from $102,800 plus dealer delivery and statutory charges while the X5 3.0sd with optional Sport package will be priced from $107,300 plus dealer delivery and statutory charges.

“The arrival of the new X5 3.0sd presents BMW customers with an excellent opportunity to obtain a high-performance vehicle that offers the absolute last word in technology, acceleration and agility,” said BMW Group Australia Managing Director, Guenther Seemann.

“The icing on the cake is the extremely frugal nature of this engine. The X5 3.0sd removes any compromise between performance, driving enjoyment and fuel consumption.

“In the last year we have introduced Twin Turbo petrol technology to Australia in the form of the International Engine of the Year, fitting the 335i engine across the BMW 3 Series range.

“Now we are also the first manufacturer to offer a twin-turbo direct injection diesel engine. “We are certain the superb performance, class leading fuel efficiency and unsurpassed agility in a luxury Sports Activity Vehicle will ensure the X5 3.0sd is regarded as the benchmark in this market segment,” said Mr Seemann.