The New BMW X5: A New Look and a Host of Technological Advances

When the X5 debuted in 1999, it left no doubt that a vehicle with true go-anywhere capability could also deliver BMW levels of performance, luxury, safety and style. The X5 delivered in spades. Four years after its launch, the world’s first Sports Activity Vehicle still enjoys enormous popularity. To ensure that this popularity continues, the engineers and designers worked together to devise a thoroughly improved driving experience, which gave rise to a number of technical innovations and a bold new look.

The main highlights of this new SAV include the new intelligent all-wheel drive system – xDrive, a more powerful V8 engine, new transmissions and the modernization of central design elements. All this means that the X5 will remain the perfect vehicle for the enthusiast driver, who wishes to combine the excellent handling and drive characteristics typical of BMW with a high seating position and the ability to master a wide range of driving situations, including off-road.

The new BMW 4.4-liter V8 engine with VALVETRONIC valve control, Double VANOS and fully variable intake system has already set new standards for refinement and performance in the new BMW 7 Series. This engine, adapted to meet the requirements of a Sports Activity Vehicle, will now power the X5 4.4i. The 4.4-liter V8 generates 315 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 7 seconds. The new X5 4.4i is equipped with the new six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission, with six perfectly spaced gear ratios to ensure that there is always plenty of power on tap, while providing maximum efficiency.