The New BMW X5 Sport Activity Vehicle

Whitby, ON.  This spring, BMW will write the latest chapter in the story of the world’s first Sport Activity Vehicle, the BMW X5. With new powertrains and refined coachwork, the new BMW X5 will make its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show in April and reach BMW showrooms later this spring.

 Originally launched for the 2000 model year in late 1999, the BMW X5 permanently changed the automotive landscape. It proved that the driving dynamics, responsiveness, and linear control signature of every BMW could be compatible with utility, versatility, and other-roads capability.

Innovative new design elements and powertrains are the result of over 4,000 new parts created by BMW designers and engineers for the 2011 BMW X5. Two of the X5’s powertrains will be all-new for 2011, creating the new X5 xDrive50i and X5 xDrive35i, in addition to the familiar BMW Advanced Diesel X5 xDrive35d. All models receive a design update that enhances the brilliant focus and aesthetic appearance of the X5 brand.

X5 xDrive50i: BMW’s Twin-Turbocharged V-8.

The new BMW X5 xDrive50i takes its place as the flagship of the X5 family, yielding 400 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 450 lb-ft of torque at 1,750 – 4,500 rpm from its twin-turbocharged 4.4 liter V-8 engine. Introduced in the BMW X6 in Spring of 2008, this all-aluminum V-8 features High Precision direct fuel injection, “reverse-flow” architecture for revolutionary responsiveness and packaging, and BMW’ s VANOS variable valve timing technology. Together, these features create what may be the perfect balance between high fuel efficiency, low emissions, and the dominant, dynamic performance expected of a BMW V-8. The 0-100 km/h sprint is accomplished in 5.6 seconds.

As part of the V-8 engine’s reverse-flow architecture, the twin turbochargers are situated in the valley of the engine’s “V” and exhale separately into two catalytic converters which are located on top of the engine and exit aftward into the large stainless-steel exhaust system via downpipes on either side of the new 8-speed automatic transmission. The exhaust streams remain separated until they meet in the large muffler at the rear of the vehicle and exit through two large, trapezoidal exhaust tips.

X5 xDrive35i: BMW’s Turbocharged Inline-6 with Valvetronic.

BMW’s new X5 xDrive 35i receives a brand new inline-6 gasoline engine featuring the same 3.0-liter displacement and 300 horsepower output of its predecessor, but features a new single twin-scroll turbocharger in place of the previous twin, low-mass turbocharger units. Furthermore, the new inline-6 of the X5 xDrive35i is the first BMW to combine BMW’s revolutionary Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, High Precision direct fuel injection, and turbocharging. The result of combining this new inline-6 with the new 8-speed automatic is an X5 with incredibly spontaneous responsiveness, exceptional power, and remarkable efficiency. The new X5 xDrive35i will perform the 0-100 km/h sprint in 6.8 seconds, coincidentally on the same pace as the outgoing V-8 powered X5 xDrive48i.

New 8-speed Automatic Transmission with Steptronic.

On both new gasoline models of the X5, sending the newfound power to the standard xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system is BMW’s new 8-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic control. The new 8-speed transmission is standard in the X5 xDrive50i and X5 xDrive35i, and raises the industry standard for compactness, efficiency, and gear selection. The new transmission weighs no more than its 6-speed predecessor, yet offers closer ratios in the lower gears for improved acceleration and two additional “tall” gears for relaxed, efficient cruising. BMW’s 8-speed automatic was introduced on the 5 Series Gran Turismo and 760Li Sedan in the fall of 2009.

Using the console-mounted e-shifter, the X5 driver chooses from three shifting programs: Drive, Drive Sport, and Manual. In Manual mode, the driver selects from the eight forward gear ratios via the + / - action of the shifter (push forward to downshift; pull back to upshift). At any speed, Neutral is easily selected via a forward push of the selector from Drive and, when at a standstill, Park is selected by depressing the “P” button atop the shifter, or by pushing the Engine Start-Stop button (doing so will also stop the engine).

BMW’s Brake Energy Regeneration system is also fitted to the gasoline X5 models. It incorporates a special deep-cycle Glass Mat battery with programmed alternator disengagement so that, most of the time, the vehicle’s battery is only charged while the vehicle is coasting or braking. Over time, the Brake Energy Regeneration system can save 1-2% on fuel consumption.

Brake Energy Regeneration is another feature in BMW’s EfficientDynamics portfolio of technologies which have a cumulative effect on the efficiency-performance balance of each BMW vehicle.

X5 xDrive35d: Maintaining the Benchmark with BMW Advanced Diesel Technology.

The BMW Advanced Diesel X5 xDrive35d was introduced to Canada as a 2009 model, and despite increased competition remains the fastest, most fuel efficient diesel-powered vehicle in its class. The huge torque output of 425 lb-ft. at 1750-2250 rpm speaks for itself; X5 xDrive35d drivers will marvel at this engine’s robust response at low to medium speeds. The peak power output of 265 hp also makes an impact, as does the resulting 0-100 km/h time of 7.4 seconds.  The X5 xDrive35d simultaneously achieves a remarkable highway fuel consumption rating of 7.5 l/100km.

For the 2011 model, BMW has made no technical changes to the award-winning BMW Advanced Diesel powertrain, but rather has focused efforts to ensure the X5 xDrive35d benefits from the latest design updates to the X5 family.

Fresh Design. Well-Balanced Proportions.

The body design of the 2011 BMW X5 is characterized by well-balanced proportions that accentuate the vehicle’s powerful presence and agility. A long wheelbase, short front and rear body overhangs, and large light-alloy wheels provide a visual balance between the front and rear of the vehicle. Square-shaped, carefully flared wheel arches hint at the X5’s all-wheel drive traction and other-roads capability. The body lines sweep upwards from the front and rear wheels, communicating BMW’s near-perfect 50-50 front-rear weight distribution which is so essential to the X5’s legendary driving dynamic.

The sides of the X5 are elegantly stretched though the strong horizontal lines of each side. The surface of the hood flows seamlessly into the waiseline, while the prominent, gently inclined contour line at the door handle level extends from the front wheel arches to the rear of the vehicle. These character lines symbolize power, stability, and presence.

With its distinctively contoured hood, large BMW kidney grille and dual round headlights, the new BMW X5 boasts an expressive front end that symbolizes power and presence. The newest interpretation of the X5’s look is led by the redesign of the front fascia and position of the standard foglamps. Due to an increase in the number of elements painted body color, the front end gives the impression of being lower. At the same time, the increased size of both the central and outer air intakes hint at the boosted engine output. The black trim at the bottom edge of the body is now considerably narrower. A matte-finished silver protection plate extends across the entire width of the central air intake, emphasizing the muscular features of the SAV, and accentuating the new X5’s character.

The dual round Xenon Adaptive headlights and foglamps are now situated higher and closer to the kidney grille. The X5’s new headlight fixtures emphasize high quality and sporting intentions. BMW’s signature corona rings serve as position lights and daytime driving lights.

The newly-designed rear apron matches the graphic structure of the front end, while the intricately designed surrounds of the dual exhaust pipes are painted in body color to underline the X5’s premium character. In the center, a matte-finished silver protection element emphasizes strength and durability suitable for other-roads use.

Above the rear bumper, the rear of the new X5 is divided by parallel horizontal lines. The result is an accentuation of the width, highlighting the vehicle’s athletic capabilities. The L-shaped taillight fixtures, each with two LED light banks, create the BMW-signature nighttime appearance of the rear end.

A choice of new body colors provides further visual enhancements. The metallic colors Deep Sea Blue, Platinum Grey, and Sparkling Bronze are now available for the BMW X5. Inside, the available Nevada Leather can be chosen in stunning new Oyster or Cinnamon Brown upholstery. The vehicle comes with a new Satin Silver interior trim if the owner does not select from the available Brushed Aluminum, Dark Bamboo or Burl Walnut wood trims.

Driver Assistance Features, Options, and Accessories.

BMW has made the X5 Sports Activity Vehicle a hallmark for drivers who wish to personalize their ride. Therefore, an excellent selection of optional features has been available since the original X5 was launched in the 2000 model year. Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go becomes available for the first time on the X5 in the 2011 model year, as does Lane Departure Warning. Active Steering, Aluminum Running Boards, Head-Up Display, 4-zone automatic climate control, rear seat entertainment system, side-view cameras, rear-view camera with top-view and Comfort Access with keyless entry, are just a few of the available options.

Pricing for the New X5 will be announced closer to market launch later this spring.

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of more than 1.43 million automobiles and over 101,000 motorcycles for the 2008 financial year. Revenues for 2008 totalled EUR 53.2 billion, with earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) of EUR 921 million. The company employed a global workforce of approximately 98,000 associates on 30 September 2009.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last five years.

BMW Group Canada, based in Whitby, Ontario, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 40 BMW automobile retail centres, 19 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 25 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

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For more information, please contact:

Rob Dexter, Product and Technology Specialist

BMW Group Canada

Corporate Communications 

905.428.5447 /  robert.dexter@bmwgroup.ca

Jochen Frey, Director, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

905.428.5005 / jochen.frey@bmwgroup.ca