BMW adds X5 to the model’s range
INNOVATIONS: FORWARD SURGE IN DYNAMIC DRIVING
A host of chassis systems optimise offroad performance.
The year of the BMW X model is about to hit another high point. Following the market launch of the first BMW X2 and new BMW X4, a new edition of the original BMW X model is now ready for action.
The fourth generation of the BMW X5 will impress with its wealth of innovations. It represents the most compelling embodiment yet of the familiar Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) blueprint: the ability to venture off road combined with dynamic driving.
The most striking feature of the front end is the large BMW kidney grille with single-piece surround.
The new BMW X5 comes as standard with LED headlights, while BMW Laserlight with Adaptive LED Headlights can be specified as an option to optimise the high beam function.
Distinctive interior and exterior design features mark out the xLine and M Sport model variants of the new X5.
Twenty-two-inch light-alloy wheels will be offered (as an option) – a first for a BMW model. And the new BMW X5 will also be available from launch with model-specific options from BMW Individual.
Inside the new BMW X5, the clear structure of the instrument panel and centre console radiates a feeling of space.
The raised seating position, a new design for the instrument cluster and Control Display, and the cutting-edge display and control concept optimise control of the vehicle.
Folding down the 40:20:40 split rear seat backrest increases boot capacity from 645 litres to a maximum of 1 860 litres. A third row of seats can be ordered from December 2018.
The new BMW X5 also has a two-section tailgate for ease of loading. If the optional Comfort Access is specified, both sections can be opened and closed automatically. The optional two-axle air suspension allows the loading sill to be lowered. The boot cover can now be lowered electrically into the load compartment floor (available from December 2018).
A quartet of turbochargers allow the six-cylinder in-line diesel engine fitted in the new BMW X5 M50d to produce maximum output of 294kW, while peak torque of 760Nm means the BMW M Performance model can call on a particularly forceful wave of power.
The BMW X5 xDrive30d also comes with a six-cylinder in-line diesel engine, in this case developing 195kW and peak torque of 620Nm (only these two models will be available initially in SA).
The task of maximising traction, agility and directional stability in the BMW X5 falls to its intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
The latest generation of BMW xDrive can split drive torque between the front and rear wheels even more efficiently.
The new xDrive system also offers a rear-biased set-up for the occasions when the driver adopts a particularly dynamic style.
The electronically controlled differential lock for the rear axle (available in conjunction with the M Sport equipment line or the OffRoad package) gives handling an even sportier edge.
By limiting equalisation of the rotational speeds of the inside and outside wheels through corners, it optimises transfer of power to the road on surfaces of differing grip levels. A host of chassis systems optimise off-road performance.
The SAV comes standard with Dynamic Damper Control, while Adaptive M Suspension Professional with active roll stabilisation and Integral Active Steering (making its debut in a BMW X model) enable extremely agile and dynamic driving.