BMW X6 in 2008?

Based on the X5 platform but way more dynamic and sportier looking, this is BMW's vision for its next Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV) model, tagged as the Concept X6. As with previous showcases of Concept M5 and Concept M3 at motor shows, this 'prototype' will likely make it into showrooms as the new BMW X6 sometime 2008.

Click on images to enlarge

How does this SAV fit into BMW's product range - with the new 2nd generation X5 almost newly launched - remains to be seen...

To view BMW Concept X6 Design Video:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/09/bmw-concept-x6-video.html

BMW X5 M-Sport

BMW AG has just slapped on the M-Sport Package to the new X5 (E70). Breaking tradition, the Munich automaker now implements M tuning kit – for the first time - onto an SUV (or SAV in BMW lingo). The M-kitted X5 boast a sportier exterior and interior, with a tweaked chassis as well for better performance. Engine output figures however, remain untouched.

The front bumper wears a re-profiled airdam kit while the rear one has a redesigned diffuser, both body coloured. Larger wheel arches are seen to cover the standard 19inches M-alloys or optional 20inches. The interior receives a sprinkle of M badges, M-steering wheel, body hugging sport seats and real-aluminium inserts. Fine tuning of the AdaptiveDrive and Active Steering systems takes the X5 to an even higher level of road-holding and handling.

BMW X5 M-Sport will be on sale in Europe very soon, with other markets to follow suit likely only in 2008.

Related post:
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/05/all-new-bmw-x5-launched-in-malaysia.html

All-New BMW X5

By Dr Long

BMW Malaysia launched the new BMW X5 SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle in BMW speak) for sale starting 30th May 2007. The all-new E70 BMW X5 is the second generation of premium, high-performance SUV to come from this Munich automaker, with the predecessor having debuted in 2001. The E53 X5 set the standard for on-road sporty driving dynamics then, yet capable to tackle off-road paths should the need arises.

Continuing this tradition of benchmark handling for a tall-SUV, the new X5 is fitted with BMW’s high tech permanent all-wheel drive system (xDrive), double wishbone front/ multi-link rear suspensions plus Active Steering. Standard on the BMW X5 4.8i is BMW’s AdaptiveDrive featuring active anti-roll bars and constantly variable damper settings. The result is a more composed, stable and ‘flatter’ ride/handling; whatever the road conditions, steering, braking and/or throttle inputs.

The all-new BMW X5 now wears run-flat tyres which allows a punctured rubber to continue rolling safely, up to 150km in fact, at speeds up to 80km/h, enough for any driver to get to his/her nearest or favourite tyre shop to rectify things. Other active safety features include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC+) which is a sum of Brake Drying, Brake Pre-Tensioning, Brake Fade Compensation and Hill Start Assist (think reverse version of Hill Descent Control).

In contrast to the new Audi Q7 launched last week, the new X5 delightfully – and practically – comes standard with a third row of seats which is good for two more passengers. These seats folds away, individually into the floor board, resulting in a larger and flat cargo area.

Three engine options are offered by BMW Malaysia with the BMW X5. The local flagship BMW X5 now beats with a 4.8L V8 petrol engine under its hood. This upgraded powerplant punches out a combo of 355hp/475Nm. The other petrol engine in the BMW X5 3.0si, is a ‘classical’ in-line six cylinder capable of 272hp/315Nm. The modern turbo-diesel X5 3.0d spins out the highest torque of the three siblings i.e. 500Nm starting at 2000rpm through to 2750rpm. Horsepower generated from oil burning is a respectable 218hp.

The retail prices on-the-road without insurance (with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new X5s are:
3.0si – RM548,000
3.0d – RM558,000
4.8i - RM888,000