X5 prices up in line with more technology

BMW has revealed pricing for its new X5 SUV ahead of its Melbourne motor show debut next month.

Kicking off at $85,000 for the entry six-cylinder 3.0si, the five-model range includes two six-cylinder engines – petrol and turbo-diesel – with the range-topping petrol 4.8i V8 topping out at $118,300.

At $86,800, the 3.0d is $1800 more than the petrol six while two Executive models will also be offered in 3.0si and 3.0d guises.

Prices have risen $2600 for the 3.0si and 3.0d over the previous 3.0i and 3.0d while the 4.8i effectively replaces the 4.4i, which is $6800 above the 4.4i.

The although visually evolutionary, the new X5 is completely new with a new double wishbone front suspension and integral-IV rear axle as well as a new six-speed gearbox.

The suspension was designed to deliver on-road handling that has made the current X5 the SUV benchmark for ride, steering and handling.

The new car will be available with active steering, adaptive drive anti-roll suspension and head-up display.

The xDrive permanent all-wheel drive system carries over but has been refined to assist stability on the road while affording maximum traction in off-road situations.

The car’s braking system also features the a dry brake function for wet conditions, hill-start assistance to prevent rolling back when starting off on an uphill gradient, as well as a push-button operated combined electromechanical/hydraulic parking brake.

Luggage space has also improved with 620 litres in five-seat mode, to as much as 1750 litres.

Despite growing in size the X5 is no heavier but boasts a 15 per cent increase in torsional stiffness.

The 3.0si’s aluminum-magnesium inline six cylinder petrol engine ups power by 18 per cent to 200kW, while torque is increased 5 per cent to 315Nm. In the 4.8-litre V8, power is up by 11 per cent to 261kW, and has 8 per cent more torque at 475 Nm.

The new X5’s 3.0-litre inline all-aluminum six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine now has 7 per cent more power at 160kW, while the maximum torque of 500Nm is up 4 per cent and is produced between 1750rpm and 2750 rpm.

Average fuel figures have improved with the 3.0si managing a 9 per cent improvement at 11.7L/100km, the 4.8i V8 5 per cent more economical at 12.5L/100 km and the 3.0d turbo-diesel returning 8.7L/100km, a 7 per cent improvement.

Acceleration figures have improved accordingly, with the 3.0si reaching 100km/h from a standstill in 8.1 seconds, the 4.8i taking 6.5 seconds while the 3.0d takes 8.6 seconds.

2007 BMW X5 pricing:
3.0si	$85,000
3.Od	$86,800
3.Osi Executive	$94,500
3.Od Executive	$96,300
4.8i	$118,300