BMW X5 Welcomes New Models to the Middle East.

X5 4.6is and 3.0 Now Available to Meet Continuing Demand. Building on
the phenomenal success of the world's first Sports Activity Vehicle,
BMW Group Middle East has now introduced an additional two new models
in the X5 range: the flagship 4.6is and the 3.0 models. "The
award-winning innovative X5 4.4 has received such tremendous success
worldwide and across the Middle East, that we are now completing the X5
family with the introduction of these two latest models," said Mr.
Robert Bailey-McEwan, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East. The
new market segment created by BMW through the launch of the X5 is now
internationally recognised as the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), which
combines the sporty and luxury attributes of a typical BMW saloon with
exceptional off-road driving capabilities. The new X5 4.6is features a
4.6 litre V8 engine producing 347 horsepower, capable of developing a
mighty 480 Nm of torque. Performance is unparalleled in the 4x4 sector,
with an acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of
over 240 km/h. In its design and looks, the X5 4.6is makes it clear
that this is the high performer in the SAV range. Discreet muscles and
emphasis on specific features bring out the character of the existing
impressive look. The 4.6is comes in two exclusive exterior colours,
the Estoril Blue, metallic and Imola Red, non-metallic. The X5 3.0
model features the youngest and most modern six-cylinder engine,
producing 231 horsepower combined with a maximum torque of 300 Nm, to
give a top speed of 202 km/h and acceleration to 100 km/h of just 8.5
seconds. The BMW X5 has a permanent four-wheel drive that transmits the
power to the rear axle by 62 per cent, and to the front wheels by 38
per cent in normal vehicle operation, providing a stable, sure-footed,
yet smooth and luxurious ride on any surface. In addition to Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC), which makes the car stick to the road, the X5
also features two new software functions, which enhance the versatility
of the new BMW X5's - improved, "intelligent" HDC Hill
Descent Control and the new Trailer Stability Control. HDC enables the
driver to proceed safely downhill on steep slopes or slippery inclines
at a consistent speed without driver intervention. Trailer Stability
Control is a unique feature that makes the X5 an even better vehicle
for towing a trailer with supreme comfort, safety and traction.
Featuring a unitary body and independent suspension, the X5 sets new
standards in terms of dynamic performance and safety for a vehicle that
also looks good on rough tracks and rocky terrain. With safety an
uncompromising priority, the X5 comes fitted with 10 airbags - frontal,
side and head airbags at the front, plus side and head airbags at the
rear. BMW's new Sports Activity Vehicle achieves the maximum number of
points in all relevant crash tests. Carefully tested in accordance with
the European standards, the Japanese NCAP standards, and the US
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) standards, the BMW X5 has
achieved best marks everywhere. And it shows equally outstanding
results in the US-NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) test which makes
even greater demands than the standards applied so far. Crowned with
numerous international awards, from "Best Cars" and "Car
of the Year" to "Readers' Choice All-Star" and best
large luxury 4x4 at MECOY - the X5 won commanding victories in its
category. "The BMW X5 has enjoyed unprecedented success in the
Middle East. The X5 celebrated growth of 141 per sales increase in
2001, and with the launch of the new 4.6is and 3.0 litre models we
expect to take an even greater share of the market," said Mr.
Bailey-McEwan. - Ends -