3.0 DIESEL VERSION OF BMW X5 ARRIVES IN THE UK

The eagerly awaited third variant of the successful BMW X5 has now arrived in
the UK. The X5 3.0d exhibits outstanding performance whilst offering levels of
economy synonymous with BMW's widely acclaimed 3.0-litre common rail diesel
engine. The 3.0d will be available in two variants, the X5 3.0d priced at
£33,145 and the X5 3.0d Sport at £35,045. Initially the X5 3.0d will only be
available with automatic transmission.

Already featured in the 330d and the 530d, BMW's straight six three litre
diesel engine features the most advanced technologies to date including common
rail direct fuel injection, a turbocharger with variable vane geometry and four
valves per cylinder. Unlike conventional diesel engines the BMW 3.0d engine
builds up torque almost instantly giving the driver immediate response from the
accelerator pedal. Commonly acknowledged as the benchmark diesel engine in its
class, its introduction in the X5 is expected to further increase the X5's
already high popularity.

The X5 3.0d has a maximum power output of 184 bhp at 4000 rpm and maximum
torque of 410 Nm at between 2000 -3000 rpm. It completes the zero to 62 sprint
in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph. Despite this impressive
performance the X5 3.0d really comes into its own on fuel economy. Consuming
just 29.1 mpg on the combined EU cycle the X5 3.0d is the most fuel-efficient
model in the X5 range.

Jim O'Donnell, Managing Director of BMW (GB) said, "The X5 has been a real
success story in the UK and the introduction of the 3.0d model will ensure this
success continues. This diesel engine ensures that customers are not forced to
sacrifice performance for economy - with the X5 3.0d they get the best of both
worlds."

In addition to the high levels of standard specification on the X5 3.0d
(identical to that found on the 3.0i), the Sport model also features:

19" alloy wheels Door handles in body colour
Anthracite headlining High gloss exterior trim
Sports suspension Sports multi function steering wheel
Titanium line interior trim
Electric sports seats with driver memory and electric steering column

The overwhelming success of the X5 is based on its unique concept as a Sport
Activity Vehicle. Suitable for off-road driving, the X5 also offers excellent
on-road characteristics as well as outstanding levels of active and passive
safety. The X5 has permanent four-wheel drive, which conveys 62 per cent of
the engine power to the rear wheels and 38 per cent to the front wheels under
normal driving conditions. Unlike a conventional off-roader, the X5 features a
unitary body and independent suspension. In short, it combines the luxury,
safety and comfort of a saloon car with the flexibility to drive on and off
road when desired.

Ends

Note to Editors: the attached downloadable release also contains technical
specification data.