Image credits: © BMW.
2010 BMW X6 M news, pictures, and information | ||
| Tweet | ||
THE NEXT CHAPTER IN THE STORIED HISTORY OF BMW M
All-New BMW X6 M and BMW X5 M Make World Debuts in 2009The modern, sustainable legacy of BMW M GmbH began in 1985 when engineers placed the snarling, race-bred inline-6 engine from the M1 supercar into the production BMW 5 Series sedan, reworked the suspension and brakes, and created the first M5. Through this -first combination of attributes, the M5 redefined the capabilities of a sedan wîth levels of power, precision, balance, and linear control never before imaginable. Since then, finding new ways to expand the boundaries of what is possible wîth existing BMW models has been the singular purpose of the craftsmen at BMW M. Now the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the remarkable performance, dynamic driving experience, athletic design, and premium quality of a BMW M product.
Both models are powered by a newly-developed 4.4-liter V8 M engine delivering 555 hp at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque from 1500 to 5,650 rpm. This new M engine is the world's first wîth a pulse-tuned exhaust manifold encompassing both rows of cylinders combined wîth high-performance twin-scroll twin turbo technology.
For the X5 M and X6 M, engineers at BMW M pushed the capabilities of BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system and the Dynamic Performance Control system to manage the power and performance potential of these two new vehicles. The special M suspension includes Adaptive Drive and newly-developed Servotronic power §teering. These features combine to push the limits of what was previously possible wîth a sports-oriented vehicle, and guarantee driving behavior characteristic of a BMW M product: incredible stability and precisely controlled §teering qualities abound throughout the performance envelope.The BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M set new standards of acceleration, lateral grip, §teering response, balance, and stopping power among high-performance activity vehicles. Both models accelerate to 60 mph from a standstill in 4.5 seconds and feature impressive delivery of power from the V8 twin-turbo engine which provides maximum torque of 500 lb-ft from 1,500 and 5,650 rpm. From a handling standpoint, both vehicles are notable for superb balance through careful tuning of xDrive, Dynamic Performance Control, and Dynamic Stability Control wîth M Dynamic Mode for linear buildup of cornering forces. These capabilities place the performance of the X5 M and X6 M on par wîth the performance of other recent BMW M vehicles.
| Vital Stats | |
| Engine : 4.4 L., 8-cylinder Power: 555 hp Torque: 500 ft-lbs | |
6-speed Automatic | |
Exterior Design: BMW M heritage reflecting function, purpose, and style.The outstanding potential of both models is communicated clearly in their looks and design, their performance-bred heritage presented convincingly by the common design of the front end wîth its large air intakes.
The hood, front air dam, and headlights are virtually identical on the BMW X5 M and X6 M. Both models feature special gills in the front fenders, as well as model-specific 20-inch light-alloy wheels. The signs of distinction of BMW M are presented in individual style at the rear, confirming the athletic character of each model. The rear diffuser on each model communicates a particularly powerful presence, and the quad tailpipes of the exhaust system are again a signature of BMW M's masterful work.
Compared wîth the standard BMW X5 and BMW X6, the body-color surface area on the side skirts are designed to place greater emphasis on their road-going orientations. On both models the body designs fulfill major functions in terms of aerodynamics and the carefully controlled flow of cooling air.
The first modern turbocharged M engine: twin scroll twin turbo technology wîth a patented exhaust manifold. Úsing BMW's innovative, 4.4L reverse-flow V8 engine wîth High Precision Direct Injection and twin turbochargers as a basis, the new M engine introduces twin-scroll twin turbochargers and patented exhaust manifold technologies to achieve outstanding thrust and pulling force, while preserving the most compact dimensions possible. Two low-mass twin-scroll turbochargers are positioned together wîth the catalytic converters in the 'V' section between the two banks of cylinders. By reversing the flow of gases through the engine from traditional arrangements, the intake and exhaust ducts are shortened and widened. The result is that pressure losses on the exhaust side are minimized.
The goals: virtually eliminate turbocharger lag while maximizing combustion efficiency and power output. Tremendous power and performance are delivered by the engine in the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M through a new design and construction principle. The new M V8 engine wîth twin-scroll twin turbo technology uses a single exhaust manifold wîth tuned-length runners, incorporating both cylinder banks and connecting cylinders in carefully-selected pairs. This configuration, patented by BMW M and known as Cylinder-bank Comprehensive Manifold (CCM), offers lightning-quick response, a linear build-up of engine power, and a broad, consistent torque curve by feeding each of the twin turbochargers wîth a 'charge pulse' at approximately every 90 degrees of crankshaft rotation, rather than the more traditional 'irregular schedule' of charging.
The managed flow of exhaust gas provided by the CCM ensures high-velocity flow of combustion gases. The appropriate separation of exhaust gas flow from different cylinders is maintained until the gas reaches the turbine wheel, spooling the two twin-scroll turbochargers without back-pressure. With maximum boost pressure of 1.5 bar (21 psi), the use of twin-scroll twin turbo technology and the CCM exhaust manifold allows complete exploitation of the benefits of turbocharging.
Immediate response and remarkable thrust characterize the new V8 twin-turbocharged engine from BMW M GmbH. The impressive onset of power is accompanied by unique, engaging engine sounds that accentuate the quick-revving characteristics wîth the dynamic acoustic effect typical of a BMW M product. The sounds are always civilized, but transform from relatively calm to extraordinarily intense as the boost and revs build from idle.Reflecting the tremendous power of the engine, the turbocharged M V8 is equipped wîth an advanced cooling system developed specifically for the two new models. One notable feature in this context is the presence of two high-capacity water-to-air intercoolers which consistently optimize performance under the most demanding driving conditions. An aluminum oil sump exclusive to BMW M wîth a special finned surface guarantees optimum cooling at all times even under an extremely demanding style of driving.
The turbocharged M V8 engine develops its outstanding power wîth remarkable efficiency. In addition to BMW's High Precision Direct Injection, both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are equipped wîth a range of technologies from BMW's EfficientDynamics engineering strategy. These include on-demand control of the electric fuel pump, an on-demand compressor for the air conditioner, and a flow-controlled supply of hydraulic fluid to the Active Roll Stabilization system. By operating these features specifically on demand, energy waste is minimized. The engine fulfills the requirements of the ÚS LEV II standard as well as the EÚ5 requirements in Europe.
M Sports Automatic and M shift paddles on the §teering wheel. Featured for the first time on a BMW M model, the 6-speed M Sports Automatic transmission enhances the high-performance character of the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M through its instantaneous response, direct connection to the engine, and a high degree of shifting comfort. The new M Sports Automatic is commanded by an electronic selector on the center console and offers the driver not only the Drive mode, but also Sport and M Manual modes for absolute control of gear selection.
Aluminum pull-style paddles on the §teering wheel exclusive to BMW M allow manual shifting (Right for upshifts, Left for downshifts). Úpshifts occur significantly quicker than in the past thanks to new technology that reduces torque in the transmission through momentary deactivation of individual cylinders. This significantly enhances the athletic character of the vehicle. In the M Manual mode, each chosen gear is held up to redline in order to give the driver perfect throttle-§teering control of the vehicle under the most demanding driving conditions. The transmission does not upshift or downshift automatically in this mode. A further option in the M Manual mode is to activate the Launch Control feature, which enables the driver to accelerate from a standstill wîth maximum performance. To activate Launch Control, the driver stops the vehicle, moves the gear selector into the M/S position and activates the Sports Power mode, as well as the M Dynamic mode, or respectively, the DSC-Off mode. Then, wîth the transmission in stage M1, the driver presses down the brake pedal and moves the accelerator to at least 60% throttle, setting Launch Control to standby. Standby status is confirmed by 'starter's flag' symbol in the instrument cluster. As soon as the driver releases the brake pedal, the vehicle will accelerate wîth full power in 'genuine racing style.' In the process, the M Sports Automatic transmission automatically upshifts at the ideal points, wîth the fastest possible shifts and optimum wheelspin control. The driver may terminate the Launch Control process at any time by reducing the throttle position.
BMW xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control wîth a special M setup for optimum dynamics.
The outstanding success of BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology is based on quick, electronically-controlled power distribution to the front and rear axles. When combined wîth the superb, near 50-50 static weight distribution of any BMW, xDrive can prevent the tendency for the vehicle to oversteer and understeer as long as possible, reducing the need for Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) to provide electronic assistance.
BMW's Dynamic Performance Control was presented for the first time in the BMW X6 and is now featured in the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M. Put succinctly, Dynamic Performance Control enhances driving stability in demanding situations and is thus perfectly suited to a powerful M vehicle. Vectoring of torque between the right and left rear wheels (both on throttle and off) significantly improves §teering precision and tracking stability at all speeds, wîth DSC being required to stabilize the vehicle only under extreme lateral acceleration. Últimately this offers the driver an unparalleled standard of performance, agility, balance, and traction, and re-establishes the benchmarks in drivetrain and suspension technology for all types of performance-oriented vehicles.
In the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M the potentials of both xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control are maximized by BMW M, wîth the driver able to activate the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) wîth the DSC button on the center console or the §teering wheel-mounted M Button. This mode raises DSC thresholds of intervention and ensures throttle-§teering behavior typical of BMW M by shifting the xDrive bias more to the rear and involving the Dynamic Performance Control in the process. A pictogram in the Control Display in the instrument cluster allows the driver to monitor the activity of Dynamic Performance Control and xDrive through a clear visual depiction, which shows the driver how much power is being distributed to each wheel.
As a result, M Dynamic Mode allows maximum speeds in bends and on winding roads wîth the DSC system intervening only when the vehicle reaches the absolute physical limits of grip. Even under maximum load in the apex of a bend, the vehicle follows §teering inputs wîth tremendous precision, giving the driver very high speeds when exiting a turn in the interest of optimum performance. Last but not least, DSC may be completely deactivated by experienced drivers at the touch of a button.
Beyond the stabilizing effects of Dynamic Stability Control provided by individual brake activation and engine power reduction under extreme conditions, DSC in the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M includes a wide range of additional features tuned to BMW M standards to promote safe and exciting driving. These include ABS anti-lock brakes, Trailer Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, Dynamic Brake Control which maximizes brake force when required, Cornering Brake Control for advanced trail-braking, Brake Fade Compensation for extreme driving conditions, automatic Brake Drying when the windshield wipers are activated, Start-Off Assistant for driving on steep hills, and a braking function for use by the standard cruise control.
Both vehicles come wîth an electrohydraulic parking brake which features the Autohold (Auto H) function. Auto H is a convenience feature that holds the vehicle in position as soon as it comes to a stop at an intersection or in stop-and-go traffic, without requiring the driver to hold constant pressure on the brake pedal. As soon as the driver touches the accelerator again, the brake is instantly released.
M Suspension wîth standard Adaptive Drive.
The suspension developed specifically for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M wîth its double-wishbone front control arms and integral four-link rear axle offers M-specific geometry and damping. This is accomplished through optimized control arm and A-arm bushings at the front, as well as stiffer axle support mounts at the rear.
As part of the advanced Integrated Chassis Management system which networks all drivetrain and suspension components, both models feature standard self-leveling rear air suspension and Adaptive Drive wîth Electronic Damping Control (EDC) and Active Roll Stabilization (ARS). The special version of Adaptive Drive tailored to the requirements of BMW M lowers the entire vehicle by 10 millimeters or 0.4' versus the standard BMW X5 and BMW X6.
To quickly and reliably process data, Adaptive Drive uses the high-speed FlexRay data transmission protocol. FlexRay enables Adaptive Drive to transfer data through the vehicle's on-board network at an extremely fast rate. This enables lightning-quick changes to settings for individual shock absorbers, swaybars, and other components as conditions and driving demands warrant. For example, if the front wheel encounters a bump, the system responds quickly enough before the rear wheel reaches the same bump. On the X5, X6, and 7 Series, BMW is the first carmaker in the world to use FlexRay as a regular technology.
The special Servotronic §teering developed for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M provides variable §teering assistance geared to the road speed of the vehicle. This allows the driver to negotiate parking maneuvers wîth lower effort while preserving exact feedback and the highest standard of §teering precision at higher speeds.
The degree of power §teering assistance is defined by two control maps. Apart from the standard configuration, the driver is able, through the Adaptive Drive button or the M Drive button on the §teering wheel, to call up the Sport Mode. This activates a sports driving control map wîth higher control forces for particularly dynamic driving conditions.
When changing from Normal to Sport Mode, the system alters not only the Servotronic §teering control map, but also the damper setting, wîth the shock absorbers of the vehicle being significantly stiffened in Sport Mode. In conjunction wîth Active Roll Stabilization, this allows an exceptionally high standard of linear lateral forces in dynamic bends and on fast, winding roads, and keeps body roll to a minimum.
M Brakes and tires to match the M Power.
Outstanding stopping power wîth fade reduced to a minimum is guaranteed by the high-performance M brake system, which combines giant four-piston fixed calipers at the front wîth floating calipers at the rear, combined in each case wîth large, internally-vented lightweight brake discs. The brake rotors themselves measure 15.6' in diameter at front and 15.2' at rear. They feature a riveted connection to join the aluminum rotor hats wîth the cast-iron rotor discs.
The BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the only vehicles of their type equipped wîth staggered-size tires front and rear, running on 20-inch light-alloy wheels. The choice of runflat tires in sizes 275/40 R 20 at the front and 315/35 R 20 at the rear is a result of the special setup of both models, wîth the emphasis on rear-wheel power and dynamic handling balance. This promotes exceptionally good transmission of power to the rear axle and precise, razor-sharp §teering behavior of both models. Transitional stability is also world-class.
Maximum performance at the touch of a button: M Drive button on the §teering wheel.
In addition to the DSC mode (On, MDM, or Off) and the specific setup of the shock absorbers and Servotronic §teering, the driver may also configure the setup of the drivetrain on the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M. Activating the Power mode influences both engine and transmission behavior, and the driver can choose from the Sport and Efficiency driving programs. The Sport program allows precise control of engine power under the most dynamic driving conditions, and ensures a linear build-up of the power delivery. The Efficiency program, in turn, upshifts at earlier points not only to significantly reduce fuel consumption under normal driving conditions, but also to allow a relaxed style of driving by taking advantage of the new M engine's prodigious torque and power available from low engine speeds. The result, therefore, is an ideal combination of flexibility for daily use and all-out performance when desired.
When customizing the response of the §teering wheel-mounted M Drive button, the driver uses the M Drive menu to preselect the desired Power Mode and the setup of DSC and EDC, making a personalized combination of settings that can be activated on-demand. The driver's favorite setup settings are saved and subsequently activated at any time simply by pressing the M Drive button on the §teering wheel. Pressing the M Drive button again returns the vehicle to its previous configuration.
M-specific cockpit and sophisticated driver assistance systems for even greater ability at the wheel.
The BMW M philosophy naturally continues into the design and configuration of the driver's 'office.' Both of these all-wheel-drive high-performance sports vehicles come wîth a special M cockpit wîth the instrument cluster featuring a variable redline, specific vehicle function displays, and white display backlighting. Both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M feature power, heated front M sport seats, an M sport leather §teering wheel, M door sills, and driver's footrest.
Infotainment functions, standard on-board Navigation wîth Real-Time Traffic data and communication functions are all controlled by BMW's 4th-generation iDrive. The standard HiFi audio system features 12 loudspeakers and a 230 watt amplifier. In addition, both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M may be equipped wîth a Head-Úp Display programmed specifically by BMW M. This option enables the driver to customize the type and scope of data projected onto the windshield through settings available in the M Drive menu.
Innovative driver assistance systems are fitted as well, wîth both models featuring standard Dynamic Cruise Control, Rain Sensor, Auto-Dimming Mirrors, Park Distance Control, and BMW's Xenon Adaptive Headlights. The list of optional features includes a Driver Assistance Package which includes High-Beam Assistant, Head-Úp Display, and Rear View Camera wîth the spectacular new Top View feature. Top View provides the driver wîth an 'birds-eye view' of the vehicle on the iDrive control screen, using input from a camera on each side of the vehicle and the traditional rear-view camera. Top View provides the driver wîth additional confidence for tight parking scenarios.
Stable bodyshell and advanced safety equipment.
The BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M come wîth extremely stiff bodyshells. To ensure maximum solidity, BMW's body engineers focused on the use of intelligent lightweight materials technology. Both the choice of materials and the arrangement and geometry of the support bars, braces, and mounts on both models are based on an overall concept that combines maximum crash safety wîth supreme agility - which helps avoid crashes in the first place. At BMW, the ability to avoid a crash is the best safety feature of all.
Forces acting on the unibody in the event of a crash are diverted through the engine carriers and the chassis along several load paths in order to avoid extreme loads acting on individual structures and help keep impact energy away from the stable passenger cell.
Both the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M come wîth frontal and hip/thorax airbags, as well as curtain head airbags to protect the occupants both front and rear from injury. Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts are at all seating positions wîth force limiters and, on the front seats, an additional seatbelt pretensioning function. To help protect occupants from cervical spine injury in the event of a rear impact, the front seats feature crash-activated active head restraints. ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard on the rear seats.
All restraint systems are controlled by the vehicles' central safety electronics, which take the type and severity of a collision into account so that the most effective safety elements are activated in any given crash. The frontal airbags feature two-stage activation, to allow deployment in varying intensity as a function of crash severity. Networked wîth Dynamic Stability Control, the standard rollover sensors activate both the curtain airbags and the seatbelt pretensioners, to ensure occupants are best positioned for and protected from the unlikely event of a vehicle rollover.Source - BMW
A mid-size crossover SUV unveiled in 1999, the BMW X5 was BMW's first SUV also known as 'Four-by-Four' in the UK. All BMW X5's are manufactured in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The X5 comes with all-wheel drive and is available with either manual or automatic transmission along with a range of gasoline inline-6s, V8s and diesel engines are available. Rather than being a SUV, BMW describes the X5 as a Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV) to shift emphasis on its on-road capability despite its size. The BMW X5 brought about the shift from truck-based body-on-frame SUVs to sedan-based crossovers that would have occurred in the late 2000s. The X5 was powered by the V8 4.4i with a manually shiftable five-speed automatic transmission.
In the late 1990s, Chris Bangle came up with the first sketches at the BMW DesignworksUSA studio in California, and in many ways, the current X5 still closely resembles these initial sketches. Rover's takeover ended up being helpful for BMW in the area of development of the X5. The engineers at BMW were able to review and use Range Rover technology and parts in their design of the X5, including hill-descent control. The design of the X5 was heavily influenced by its British counterpart, included the two-piece tailgate taken directly from the Range Rover. Numerous parts and electronics were also taken directly from the E39 5 Series parts bit to save on costs.
The X5 was designed as a sporting road car, in contrast to the Range Rover models, unfortunately the X5's off-road capabilities were significantly less than those of Land Rover. BMW made it well known that the X5 was referred to as an SAV rather than a SUV. Though the X5 was an all-wheel drive vehicle, BMW chose from the start to route 62% of the engine's torque to the rear wheels, working hard to make it feel as similar as possible to the company's rear-wheel drive sedans.
BMW launched a smaller version, the X3 in 2003, which used the ‘X' prefix applied to the BMW SAVs which were derivatives of the BMW number-series models.
The first generation of the BMW X5 crossover vehicle was introduced in 1999 and was produced until 2003 and had a wheelbase of 110.0 inches, an overall length of 183.7 inches and a width of 73.7 inches. The X5 was produced until September of 2006 and was replaced by the BMW E70. At the time that the E53 was developed, BMW still owned Land Rover and because it this is shares many of the components and designs with both Land Rover and also the BMW E39 5-series.
For 2001 no changes were made on the BMW X5. For 2002 the high-performance 4.6is model was introduced with a 340-horsepower V8 engine. Against Mercedes-Benz ML 50/ML55 AMG, the X5 was quite a big contender. Along with this were aero body add-ons, and the new model received 20-inch wheels along with a special sportier interior. For this year option packages received some content revisions.
The Premium group now came with rain-sensing wipers, a sunroof for both the 3.0i and 4.4i and automatic climate control for the 3.0i. The 4.4i edition could also be equipped with a new Rear Climate package that included privacy glass and rear window shades. Optional were rear torso side-impact airbags.
For 2004 the X5 didn't change much and a revised model was debuted in 2004. The all new X5 was revamped completely, and a new 6-speed manual transmission option, and a 315 hp V8 compared to the previous year's 290 hp in 2004. The 04 X5 also received new headlights, a few new exterior colors, upgraded engines and a new four-wheel drive system. The grilles were enlarged along with their actually slats being modified in a ‘flame surfaced' style. The X5's headlights received ‘angel-eyes' which were rings or halos around all front headlamps.
The 2004 taillights also received a similar facelift to the BMW E39 and the exterior glass was transformed from a ‘dotted' pattern to a cleaner ‘line' pattern. Called xDrive, BMW invented a new four-wheel drive system that was shared both in the X5 and X3 in 2005. Rather than using the earlier X5 system which had consisted or power being split 62-38 (rear wheels – front wheels) and DSC to brake wheels losing traction, the xDrive could vary power to the front or rear axles in milliseconds which transferred up to 100% of engine power to either axle, therefore allowing the vehicles to regain traction quickly.
Additional extras were added to the 2004 X5 were soft-boot close feature which allowed the top part of the trunk to pull itself closed, Trailer Stability program which made it an ideal tow vehicles and adaptive headlights. At the end of 2003 it was originally announced along with the rest of the X5 facelift, the X5 4.8is first started shipping in April 2004. Replacing the 4.6 L engine was a new larger 4.8 L engine that was also later used in the 2005 750i/Li. It also included a slightly modified bodykit, 20' wheels and along with the 4.6is were the only X5's ever to feature large chrome-tipped exhaust which hid the quad pipes.
For the 2005 version a few optional versions became standard on BMW's American-built SUV. The 4.4i offered newly standard front and rear obstacle detection which was optional on 3.0i. Now steering linked were Xenon headlights which were standard on V8s and optional on the 3.0i. Along with the rest of the BMW lineup (apart from the E65 7 series) the 2005 X5 received Bluetooth kits straight from the factory if ordered with the Premium Package.
For the 2006 BMW X5 no significant changes were made. The X5 wasn't fitted with the new BMW R6 engine which upped power for both the 2.5i and 3.0i I6 versions of the 2006 X3 and Z4 significantly. Some rumors implied that BMW held back deploying the engine in the 2006 X5 so they didn't waste development costs in retooling the assembly line so they could make way for a more dramatic unveiling of the new 2007 BMW X5. This year was also the end of the E53 X5 as well.
The second generation of the BMW X5, the E70 was introduced in 2008 and had a wheelbase of 115.5 inches, a length of 191.3 inches, a wheelbase of 115.5 inches and a width of 76.1 inches. The E70 is the current X5 SAV which replaced the BMW E53 in November of 2006. The E70 platform replaced the BMW E53 as the X5's underpinnings. A ton of new technological advancements were introduced on the E70-based X5 SAV including BMW's iDrive system as standard equipment, and the first for a BMW, an optional third row seat.
This current generation incorporates safety innovations for the crossover segment like a unique rear framing section that protected 3rd row occupants from injury due to an impact. From late 2008 until the new BMW branding scheme, the X5 3.0sd is now called the X5 XDrive 35D and the 4.8 i is called the X5 XDrive 48I.
During the spring of 2000, a lower-priced six-cylinder 3.0i edition was introduced with a standard five-speed manual transmission and optional four-speed automatic. Both of these models were produced in South Carolina on an exclusive uni-bodied platform. BMW X5's came with a standard permanently engaged four-wheel drive, traction control, all-disc antilock braking, an antiskid system and a tailgate with separate lift glass.
Not intended for severe off road use the X5's four-wheel drive system lacked low-range gearing. Instead, the XM automatically brakes individual wheels to limit slippage in low-grip conditions. The speed was limited to 6 mph down steep slopes down a standard hill descent control.
The standard equipment included power tilt/telescopic steering wheels, 70/30 split folding rear seats and front side-impact airbags which were head-protecting tubular airbags that deployed from above front door windows in a side impact.
Optional on the X5 were rear lower-body side airbags. A load-leveling suspension was included on the 4.4i and optional for the 3.0i, along with 18 inch wheels and tires, wood interior trim and leather upholstery. A Sport Package was available and included black exterior trim, a sport suspension and the 4.4i received 19-inch tires. Available with either model was an optional navigation system with dashboard-mounted video screen. The biggest competitor for the X5 was the Lexus RX 300, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and the Acura MDX.
BMW produced a one-off version of the X5 that was dubbed the X5 LM and equipped it with the M70 S70B56 V12 engine from the Le Mans winning BMW V12 LRM. In 2000 it was driven by Hans Joachim Stuck to receive a lap record at the Nürburgring.By Jessica Donaldson
For more information and related vehicles, click hereIn the late 1990s, Chris Bangle came up with the first sketches at the BMW DesignworksUSA studio in California, and in many ways, the current X5 still closely resembles these initial sketches. Rover's takeover ended up being helpful for BMW in the area of development of the X5. The engineers at BMW were able to review and use Range Rover technology and parts in their design of the X5, including hill-descent control. The design of the X5 was heavily influenced by its British counterpart, included the two-piece tailgate taken directly from the Range Rover. Numerous parts and electronics were also taken directly from the E39 5 Series parts bit to save on costs.
The X5 was designed as a sporting road car, in contrast to the Range Rover models, unfortunately the X5's off-road capabilities were significantly less than those of Land Rover. BMW made it well known that the X5 was referred to as an SAV rather than a SUV. Though the X5 was an all-wheel drive vehicle, BMW chose from the start to route 62% of the engine's torque to the rear wheels, working hard to make it feel as similar as possible to the company's rear-wheel drive sedans.
BMW launched a smaller version, the X3 in 2003, which used the ‘X' prefix applied to the BMW SAVs which were derivatives of the BMW number-series models.
The first generation of the BMW X5 crossover vehicle was introduced in 1999 and was produced until 2003 and had a wheelbase of 110.0 inches, an overall length of 183.7 inches and a width of 73.7 inches. The X5 was produced until September of 2006 and was replaced by the BMW E70. At the time that the E53 was developed, BMW still owned Land Rover and because it this is shares many of the components and designs with both Land Rover and also the BMW E39 5-series.
For 2001 no changes were made on the BMW X5. For 2002 the high-performance 4.6is model was introduced with a 340-horsepower V8 engine. Against Mercedes-Benz ML 50/ML55 AMG, the X5 was quite a big contender. Along with this were aero body add-ons, and the new model received 20-inch wheels along with a special sportier interior. For this year option packages received some content revisions.
The Premium group now came with rain-sensing wipers, a sunroof for both the 3.0i and 4.4i and automatic climate control for the 3.0i. The 4.4i edition could also be equipped with a new Rear Climate package that included privacy glass and rear window shades. Optional were rear torso side-impact airbags.
For 2004 the X5 didn't change much and a revised model was debuted in 2004. The all new X5 was revamped completely, and a new 6-speed manual transmission option, and a 315 hp V8 compared to the previous year's 290 hp in 2004. The 04 X5 also received new headlights, a few new exterior colors, upgraded engines and a new four-wheel drive system. The grilles were enlarged along with their actually slats being modified in a ‘flame surfaced' style. The X5's headlights received ‘angel-eyes' which were rings or halos around all front headlamps.
The 2004 taillights also received a similar facelift to the BMW E39 and the exterior glass was transformed from a ‘dotted' pattern to a cleaner ‘line' pattern. Called xDrive, BMW invented a new four-wheel drive system that was shared both in the X5 and X3 in 2005. Rather than using the earlier X5 system which had consisted or power being split 62-38 (rear wheels – front wheels) and DSC to brake wheels losing traction, the xDrive could vary power to the front or rear axles in milliseconds which transferred up to 100% of engine power to either axle, therefore allowing the vehicles to regain traction quickly.
Additional extras were added to the 2004 X5 were soft-boot close feature which allowed the top part of the trunk to pull itself closed, Trailer Stability program which made it an ideal tow vehicles and adaptive headlights. At the end of 2003 it was originally announced along with the rest of the X5 facelift, the X5 4.8is first started shipping in April 2004. Replacing the 4.6 L engine was a new larger 4.8 L engine that was also later used in the 2005 750i/Li. It also included a slightly modified bodykit, 20' wheels and along with the 4.6is were the only X5's ever to feature large chrome-tipped exhaust which hid the quad pipes.
For the 2005 version a few optional versions became standard on BMW's American-built SUV. The 4.4i offered newly standard front and rear obstacle detection which was optional on 3.0i. Now steering linked were Xenon headlights which were standard on V8s and optional on the 3.0i. Along with the rest of the BMW lineup (apart from the E65 7 series) the 2005 X5 received Bluetooth kits straight from the factory if ordered with the Premium Package.
For the 2006 BMW X5 no significant changes were made. The X5 wasn't fitted with the new BMW R6 engine which upped power for both the 2.5i and 3.0i I6 versions of the 2006 X3 and Z4 significantly. Some rumors implied that BMW held back deploying the engine in the 2006 X5 so they didn't waste development costs in retooling the assembly line so they could make way for a more dramatic unveiling of the new 2007 BMW X5. This year was also the end of the E53 X5 as well.
The second generation of the BMW X5, the E70 was introduced in 2008 and had a wheelbase of 115.5 inches, a length of 191.3 inches, a wheelbase of 115.5 inches and a width of 76.1 inches. The E70 is the current X5 SAV which replaced the BMW E53 in November of 2006. The E70 platform replaced the BMW E53 as the X5's underpinnings. A ton of new technological advancements were introduced on the E70-based X5 SAV including BMW's iDrive system as standard equipment, and the first for a BMW, an optional third row seat.
This current generation incorporates safety innovations for the crossover segment like a unique rear framing section that protected 3rd row occupants from injury due to an impact. From late 2008 until the new BMW branding scheme, the X5 3.0sd is now called the X5 XDrive 35D and the 4.8 i is called the X5 XDrive 48I.
During the spring of 2000, a lower-priced six-cylinder 3.0i edition was introduced with a standard five-speed manual transmission and optional four-speed automatic. Both of these models were produced in South Carolina on an exclusive uni-bodied platform. BMW X5's came with a standard permanently engaged four-wheel drive, traction control, all-disc antilock braking, an antiskid system and a tailgate with separate lift glass.
Not intended for severe off road use the X5's four-wheel drive system lacked low-range gearing. Instead, the XM automatically brakes individual wheels to limit slippage in low-grip conditions. The speed was limited to 6 mph down steep slopes down a standard hill descent control.
The standard equipment included power tilt/telescopic steering wheels, 70/30 split folding rear seats and front side-impact airbags which were head-protecting tubular airbags that deployed from above front door windows in a side impact.
Optional on the X5 were rear lower-body side airbags. A load-leveling suspension was included on the 4.4i and optional for the 3.0i, along with 18 inch wheels and tires, wood interior trim and leather upholstery. A Sport Package was available and included black exterior trim, a sport suspension and the 4.4i received 19-inch tires. Available with either model was an optional navigation system with dashboard-mounted video screen. The biggest competitor for the X5 was the Lexus RX 300, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and the Acura MDX.
BMW produced a one-off version of the X5 that was dubbed the X5 LM and equipped it with the M70 S70B56 V12 engine from the Le Mans winning BMW V12 LRM. In 2000 it was driven by Hans Joachim Stuck to receive a lap record at the Nürburgring.By Jessica Donaldson
| 'THE SPORTIEST CARS OF 2013' - THREE BMW MODELS LEAD THE FIELD | |
![]() | Munich. With the award of three first places in three different classes, the readers of the specialist German magazine 'Sport Auto' have returned their verdict and named three current BMW models as 'The sportiest cars of 2013', expressing once again their preference for pure driving pleasure. In the diesel category, the BMW M550d xDrive was voted into first place again, continuing the trend it set the previous year. Two more first-in-class awards were won by the BMW 335i Sedan and the BMW...[Read more...] |
| 2014 Sierra Denali Pairs High-Tech Luxury And Capability | |
![]() | DETROIT – An all-new 2014 Sierra 1500 Denali full-size pickup arrives this fall with an available 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 that will produce an estimated 420 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, the most power and torque of any light duty truck engine. Final SAE-rated power and torque numbers will be available later this year. Now entering its third generation, the Sierra Denali is the most luxurious and technologically advanced GMC half-ton pickup. Sierra's 6.2L V-8 will also be available f...[Read more...] |
| Land Rover Celebrates 65 Years Of Technology And Innovation | |
![]() | SIXTY-FIVE YEARS OF LAND ROVER From our earliest days, the desire to create a vehicle that will tackle any terrain has made Land Rover famous around the world. Over the past 65 years, the Land Rover family has grown into the highly respected range of vehicles that are sold in record numbers today. As Land Rover continues to go from strength to strength, we thought it was time to look back at the milestones in our history that have got us here. The last 65 years have been an adventure. ...[Read more...] |
| 2014 Corvette Stingray Starts At $51,995 | |
![]() | The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe will have a suggested starting retail price of $51,995, and the Corvette Stingray Convertible will start at $56,995. Both prices include a $995 destination fee but exclude tax, title, and license. 'The 2014 Corvette Stingray perfectly embodies Chevrolet's mission to deliver more than expected for our customers,' said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. 'The Corvette Stingray delivers a combination of performance, design and technology t...[Read more...] |
| MINI AT THE 83RD GENEVA INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2013 | |
![]() | The passion for extreme driving fun, a richly varied model range and the wide selection of personalization options for which MINI is renowned form the centerpiece of the British premium brand's stand at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show. As part of its ongoing model push, MINI is introducing further additions to its portfolio of attractive design models. Indeed, this year's Geneva Show will host the world premiere of the MINI Clubman Bond Street. Generously equipped and with a searching e...[Read more...] |
| Similar Vehicles | |
![]() | 2010 BMW X5 M |
| Similar Automakers | |
| Audi | Infiniti |
| Jaguar | Land Rover |
| Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Similarly Sized Vehicles from 2010 |
| Acura MDX |
| Acura ZDX |
| Alfa Romeo Pandion Concept |
| Audi A3 |
| Audi Q7 |
| Audi Q7 S-Line |
| Audi R15 plus TDI |
| BMW GTRS3 M3 Widebody |
| BMW M3 |
| BMW M3 |
| BMW: 2000-2010 |
| Similar Automakers |
| BMW History |
| Other models by BMW |
| Manufacturer Website |
| Related Articles and Event Coverage |
| 2009 New York International Auto Show |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1 Series 1600 2002 2800 3 Series 3.0 CS | 3.0 CSL 3.5 CSL 318i 3200 CS 327/328 5-Series | 503 507 6 Series 7-Series 700 850 | Dixi Isetta M Coupe M1 M3 M5 | M6 New Class X1 X3 X5 X6 | Z1 Z3 Z4 Z8 |
































2010