Thanks to the HARTGE sports spring set with level control system for the rear axle, which lowers the vehicle by up to 30 mm, the X5 does not look like a SUV. This impression is underscored by the set of ‘BRILLANT CLASSIC 2′ wheels. These 22 inch rims for ultra-wide tyres – 295/30 ZR 22 at the front and 335/25 ZR 22 at the rear – are the ideal match for the sporting four-wheel drive car with appropriate

HARTGE emblems. Details such as carbon casings for exterior mirrors and stainless steel tail pieces with oval tail pipes that can be connected to the standard exhaust system underscore the sporting nature of the car.

This is based on a 3-litre diesel engine producing 328 hp (241 kW) at 4400 rpm. With such a forceful power plant, the X5 xDrive35d from HARTGE needs only 6.1 seconds for the standing start to 100 km/h, i.e., significantly faster than the series X5, which takes seven seconds. The extra power is also reflected by a higher top speed, which rises from 235 to 244 km/h.

Weighing 2.2 tonnes, the interior of the X5 xDrive35d from HARTGE is also distinguished by a range of sporting accessories: 3-spoke leather steering wheel with carbon inserts, which also grace the dashboard, a variety of interior and decorative strips and a transmission console made of this high-tech compound. With a silver metallic dial and red needle, the 300 km/h speedometer is a great eye-catcher.

Moreover, with aluminium pedals and foot rest coupled with black velour foot mats, even the footwell has that sporting touch that characterises not only the X5 Beau from Beckingen in Germany’s Saarland region but all HARTGE automobiles. And this is hardly surprising because Herbert Hartge, a successful ex-racing driver, brought the spirit of motorsport with him into the company. All parts are, of course, suitable for retro-fitting.

As a complete vehicle, this exclusive X5 costs a total of € 87,277.47 (including 19% VAT).

While the X5 and X6 are not due for a redesign for a few more years, the first generation X3 is ready to retire. The new, redesigned and improved model, will be launch early next year and will leave its entry-level spot to the X1, a vehicle available in the European market.

As you can see in these photos, the X5 and X6 front-end already share some common elements and even more when the X5 facelift is unveiled. The X1 is part of the latest BMW design language and some design cues are imported from the new 7 or 5 GT. Following the same path, we expect the new X3 to have a front-end close to the X1.

So let us leave you with a question: if money would be no objection, which one of the following X models would you choose?

The X5 M has size, speed, handling, dynamics and still features little off road capabilities. And the 0-60 mph in only 4.5 seconds…..well, that’s the cherry on the cake. We have to admit that BMW Motorsport division has done their homework with these first M SUVs and we still believe the sale numbers will be more than satisfactory. If the future reviews continue to be positive, Mercedes and Porsche will have a lot to worry about.

For those of you that might not recall, the BMW X5 M and X6 M are powered by a 4.4 liter V8 twin-turbo engine outputting 555 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 5,650 rpm. The engine uses the twin-scroll twin turbo technology with High Precision Direct Injection.

We’re anxiously waiting for our X5 M and looking forward to the thrill and excitement we’ve encountered while testing the X6 M on track back in July. It was our “first date” with the new Ms and it was a sweet one. Some may call it love on first sight, others may refer to it as “fanboyism”, but truth is that it’s really hard to explain in words the experience behind the wheel and the best thing one can do…. is to actually drive them.

Now if BMW will include them in the M Performance School program, we will make sure to book the first flight out to Spartanburg.

But will the X5 M match this performance?

“After driving the 2010 BMW X5 M, there were numerous subtitles for this story bouncing around in our head. Because it was only a handful of years ago, when BMW introduced the 2004 X5 4.8is, that it said, “There will never be an M version of the X5,” we were tempted to write, “Never Say Never.”

One blast down the drag strip in this 555-horsepower breadbox in Monte Carlo Blue had us shouting, “12-second SUV!” If we believed the rumor (and we don’t) that one of the primary reasons for the X5 M’s existence is to satisfy the conspicuously well-funded market among the mobsters in Russia, then we could’ve run with “From Russia With Love.”

Finally, one serene drive home on L.A.’s notoriously poorly constructed freeways where we discovered this X5 M’s ride was far better than that of our long-term 2008 BMW X5 4.8i almost compelled us to put down, “Dr. Jekyll and Mrs. Hyde.”

A New M
It’s not an accident that the newly M-bedazzled X5 has the ability to be both a remarkable performance machine and a completely livable grocery getter. If you had no knowledge of the record-breaking performance potential contained within the X5 M, you’d never know it had a dual personality.

Full Article Continued

P.S. Our own review will soon be available

These were the same times when luxury automakers were battling with the strict emission regulations in the U.S. and fuel efficient diesel engines have been delayed due to these rules.

In an attempt to win the consumer’s confidence in diesel powerplants, BMW, Mercedes and Audi launched diesel powered vehicles of their most popular SUVs or SAV in BMW’s case. The new X5d, Mercedes GL and Audi Q7 TDI have been battling ever since to win the supremacy in this segment and several test reviews or comparisons have been printed.

Today, Wall Street Journal makes another attempt to put these three vehicles head-to-head. Let’s find out what their findings were.

As gasoline prices rose last year, and large, fuel-thirsty sport-utility vehicles fell from favor, car companies looked for ways to restore the SUV’s appeal.

Newer car-like models called crossovers are lighter and more efficient than earlier SUVs, but only slightly. And their fuel economy, while improved over older models, is poor in day-to-day use.

Now three European carmakers are selling large SUVs with diesel engines that promise the fuel economy of a midsize car, and the power and hauling capacity of a truck. The Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GL have been on the market for years with gasoline engines, but this year is the first time diesel versions of all three have been available in the U.S.

Driving them revealed the advantages of quiet, cleaner-burning modern diesels. But each vehicle also had frustrating qualities that left me wondering what might have been.

The BMW X5 35d was the sports car of the group, not only accelerating quickly but handling well enough to make me look forward to driving on twisting back roads. If you are considering buying a sporty luxury station wagon, the X5, which costs $51,200, would be a fitting choice.

Full Article at WSJ

The 10-Year Edition X5 features a new special Sophisto Grey metallic paint finish, panoramic glass sunroof and 20-inch wheels with a matte aluminum paint.

Inside, the X5 10-Year Edition gets an upgraded Nappa leather and Piano Black trim. Commemorative engraving can be found inside as well, on the sill plates and on the dashboard.

BMW will manufacture 2,000 unites distributed worldwide with about 10% assigned to the UK market with a target price of £53,075.

The Lumma X5 received a wide  body kit with new front spoiler with fog lamps and racing grid, a rear apron with diffuser look, broader wheel arches and side sills.

Add to this the roof spoiler, carbon/kevlar light-weight hood Lumma mirror caps, headlight covers, taillight covers and you have one of the best looking X5 SAVs out there.

The CLR X530 sits on 22 inch wheels and comes with three sets of wheels: “Racing 1″, “Racing 2″ and “Racing 3″ in 22-inch. “Racing 1″ is a multi-pieced rim with silver or black matt wheel and the Lumma logo on the hub cap. The “Racing 2″ set features an Y-Design with a titan matt finish.The 3rd set of wheels called “Racing 3″ comes in multi-piece look and high polished stainless steel outer rim. All these rims are equipped with high performance tires from Toyo or Yokohama.

Today, the fellows at Autojunk.nl have some real life photos of this car and we have to say, it is quite a looker.

BMW X5 M is powered by a tuned up 4.4 liter V8 M engine delivering 555 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 5,650 rpm. The engine uses the twin-scroll twin turbo technology with High Precision Direct Injection.

By positioning the twin-scroll turbochargers together with the catalytic converters in the “V” section between the cylinders, it minimizes the turbo lag and offers better fuel efficiency.

The M X models come equipped with Dynamic Performance Control, special M suspensions and Adaptive Drive, along with a new Servotronic power steering and Active Roll Stabilization system. Other available options are: Head Up Display, Rear View Camera and High Beam Assistant.

BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M run from 0-60 mph in ONLY 4.5 seconds, making the M twins the fastest SUV/SAVs out there.

The 6-speed M Sports Automatic transmission is featured for the first time on a BMW M vehicle. There are two other modes available beside the regular Drive, Sport and M Manual. Gears can be manually shifted through the paddles located on the M steering wheel.

Due to the M Suspension, the BMW X6 M and X5 M are sitting about 0.4 inch lower compared to the regular models. The M twins sit on 20-inch light-allow whels and runflat tires: 275/40 at the front and 315/30 at the rear.

In the U.S., the base price for the BMW X5 M is set at $85,400

[Source: Bimmerschwag ]

The 2009 Hartge BMW X5 E70 body kit includes a new front spoiler, a rear skirt, left and right side sills and a stainless steel rear silencer with oval tail pipes. Along with this aero kit, Hartge also offers a sport suspension kit and a new set of multi-spoke wheels.

The Hartge X5 body parts are made from PUR-RIM, primed and comes with ABE homologation by the KBA.

The overall look of the BMW X5 has clearly become more aggressive, but if money were no objection, we would still stick with the X5 M.

Hartge has not announced yet a price for their X5 aero kit.

They re-engineered the V8 4.8 liter engine and managed to squeeze out 625 horsepower and a torque of 516 lb-ft (700Nm). The engine is using the latest G-Power SK III RS Superchager with a boost pressure of 1.0 bar. This performance explosion originates in the core part of the G-POWER supercharger systems, the entirely newly developed T1-723 ASA radial supercharger which is used in the ALPINA B5S, B6S and B7 models and the  B6 GT3 race car.

The G-POWER X5 Typhoon RS runs from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds and 0 to 124mph in 16 seconds. Top speed is goes past the 155mph limitation imposed by BMW: 177 mph.

The upgrade to the X5 also includes a high-performance exhaust system, aluminum charge air cooling system and racing catalysts. X5 Typhoon RS is also fitted with Typhoon/G-Power specific accessories.

No pricing has been announced, but expected to be on the very high end side.

G-POWER X5 TYPHOON RS: With 625 hp the world’s strongest BMW-SUV!
04.08.2009

Brawny wing extensions and strikingly formed front- and rear skirts qualified for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, mark the appearance of the G-POWER TYPHOON RS. The body alteration in OEM-quality made of PU-rim has been developed by the G-POWER designers by using state-of-the-art CAD technology. Therefore, the basic car has been entirely digitalised with a 3D-scanner on the own company premises.

The elegantly formed G-POWER wing extensions at the front- and back axle which are naturally delivered with a perfectly matching inner wing extend the X5 by seven centimetres. They make room for extra-broad 23“ wheels and tyres. The G-POWER SILVERSTONE “forged” aluminium wheels in the dimensions 11Jx23 at the front and 12Jx23 at the back were especially designed for the TYPHOON RS and are the largest available model. Four high-performance tyres measuring 315/25 ZR 23 by the development partner Michelin render optimal traction and sporty handling.

In combination with the extended wings, especially the absolute independently styled G-POWER TYPHOON front skirt, the facial expression of the exclusive SUV is formed. The large air inlets do not only improve the overtaking prestige, they also guarantee an optimised cooling of the engine and the front brakes. Moreover, due to its elaborate shaping, the aerodynamic lifting forces at the front axle could be reduced.

The rear skirt of the TYPHOON RS has been designed like the front skirt and therefore entirely replaces the serial bumpers. Apart from the two striking end pipes of the G-POWER stainless steel sport end muffler, the diffuser also marks the rear appearance. And in combination with the spoiler which is attached to the boot lid and visually prolongs the roof line, the lifting forces at the rear axle are also minimised.

The TYPHOON side skirts do not only provide an aerodynamically favourable transition between the extensions: on their bottom side five LED units which can be activated by remote control or by pulling a handle at the door, illuminate the ground at both sides of the car. At the upper side, stainless steel inserts with an also blue illuminated G-POWER logo are integrated.

Another proof for the elaborate construction of the G-POWER TYPHOON broad-built version for the BMW X5 which is offered as a kit from € 12.185,– (net price) is the four-part underbody cladding.

Matching the dynamic appearance, G-POWER offers an extremely strong motorisation for the BMW X5 xDrive48i. In co-operation with ASA, the world-wide renowned developer and OEM-supplier of high-tech superchargers, a mechanic charging system for the eight-cylinder four-valve engine has been created.

The G-POWER SK III RS supercharger system gives the 4.8 litre engine a performance increase of 270 hp / 199 kW to 625 hp / 460 kW at 6,100 r.p.m. and renders a torque increase of 475 Nm to 700 Nm at 5,300 r.p.m. This supercharger technology guarantees – in contrast to turbo engines – a perfect throttle response at any time. In order to achieve this performance, an ASA T1- 723 charger with radial centrifugal clutch is flanged to the engine with a CNC-milled, high-strength framework structure. The supercharger which is powered by a crankshaft via the multi-rib belt has an oil flow which is integrated into the engine oil circulation for lubrication. The boost pressure is 1.0 bar.

This performance explosion originates in the core part of the G-POWER supercharger systems, the entirely newly developed T1-723 ASA radial supercharger. Moreover, supercharger systems are also used in the ALPINA models B5S, B6S and B7, and of course also in the ALPINA B6 GT3 race car, in which the ASA supercharger impressively confirmed its reliability and quality in the “Green Hell” at the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring this year. The exclusive use of components in OEM-quality is an essential part of the G-POWER philosophy and the basis for extraordinarily high quality, reliability and durability of G-POWER products.

The two-part carbon intake air duct with large, aerodynamic transverse sections, a large-volume aluminium charge air cooling system in the front of the X5 and a G-POWER SPEEDFLOW high-performance exhaust system which is entirely made of stainless steel and includes racing headers, racing catalysts and end mufflers, form the peripheral equipment of the supercharged engine and moreover render an earthy sound which emphasises the acoustics of the eight-cylinder engine.

Also, the engine itself is thoroughly refined by G-POWER. Starting with a new set of forged pistons for compression reduction, manufactured in the Formula 1 department at MAHLE, the BMW V8 engine is completely re-engineered. Eight new fuel injectors with a larger fuel mass capacity, a new ignition map for engine electronics and an additional re-cooling system for engine oil and cooling water perfect the engine makeover. Of course, also the serial transmission is modified and adjusted to the performance.

The enormous performance potential of the G-POWER SK III RS supercharged engine in combination with the six-gear automatic transmission and the xDrive 4WD enables the SUV to render a driving behaviour which confirms it as a top player in its vehicle class. The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h only takes 4,5 seconds. After 16,0 seconds, the mighty five-door car already reaches a velocity of 200 km/h. The maximum speed is 285 km/h.

The G-POWER TYPHOON RS cockpit can be refined with exclusive accessories like an ergonomically formed sport steering wheel, a speedometer in TYPHOON design and sporty aluminium accessories. Further wishes can be fulfilled with exclusive interior equipments in all possible leather and ultra-suede colours.

The G-POWER TYPHOON RS can be ordered as a complete automobile, or alternatively, any BMW X5 E70 can be refined with individual G-POWER components of the high-performance SUV.

While we were excited to be back on track again, the X5 offroad exercises sounded very appealing to us, in the end, how many times do you get to take an X5 offroad and experience a different thrill? Right, not that many times.

The X5 driving schools teaches the drivers to get the most out of their SAV and it goes through a series of handling and safety exercises. Since we were on a tight schedule there, we only had the chance to experience the course for an hour, but it was plenty of time to get our adrenaline going.

We started of a route “paved” with massive rocks and shortly we found our way into a 3 feet water where the thought of our X5 being flooded with water went through our head immediately. But the X5 did great and came out of this unique situation without a single drop of water at our feet. What we learned here was that crossing a river with the X5 is quite doable and shouldn’t need a full size SUV to do that.

Next step, driving the BMW X5 on uneven, steep surfaces where learning how to balance your vehicle is vital. I was riding in the car with the editor at European Car Magazine and the whole uneven, 45 degree angle the car was positioned in, gave us the chills for a second. On top of that, pretty much two of the wheels were not touching ground anymore. Of course, it looked far more dangerous from inside the car, but the truth is, the instructor was always in control of the situation and easily walked us through the exercise. Quite fun and a bit of adrenaline pumping through our heart…..

Our first thought was how well the X5 handled itself in that situation and how the xDrive system pulled out us out of a tight corner.

We moved forward onto more uneven roads where the offroad capabilities of the X5 were put to test and knowing the car’s center of gravity was crucial.

The Hill Descent Control is one of those features that many of us might have forgotten about or simply never used it, but it is one of these things that make a difference when going down a steep hill. By activating the system, you’re giving the car full control over the speed and braking system and the descending can be done with no intervention from you…..okay, minus the steering wheel control. The descending speed can be set up to 18 mph.

Last and final exercise of our little X5 escapade was to climb some more rocks and keep the car at odd angles, but we were on the second try already and we were becoming quite good at this, so we kept ourselves safe and no car tipping either.

Unfortunately for us it was time to head over to the track for the racing activities where among other cars, an M3, 650i, X6 50i were waiting to be tested, but the X5 driving exercises left us with a feeling that we wanted to wanted more. The entire course contains of more activities, including cornering at ground speed on gravel surfaces, ground clearance control and advanced handling, but maybe we will be back one day for the full experience.

Another fun day at the BMW Performance Center and by now, I’m sure the BMW instructors are tired of seeing us…..just kidding.

More information about the BMW Performance Center driving schools can be found here: Performance Driving Schools

Click here to view the embedded video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

The idea was to take the BMW X5 diesel through some windy roads and see how it handles itself. For those of you that have never been in this area – a first for us as well- then allow us to explain some of the surroundings.

Smoky Mountains are the perfect place to test the car, with many windy roads that are spread across 20 miles or more. We took the X5d through a 21 mile road that had about……60-70 corners, some of them more difficult than others.

We decided to push the SAV a little bit and we discovered that it handles as expected, corners quite well, very stable while cornering and outputs enough power even for a true enthusiast. The car has personality and the diesel engine performs up to BMW’s engine standards. We have to admit  that we were a bit concern if we would enjoy the diesel engine better than the gasoline powerplant, but at this point, 1,000 miles into the trip and that feeling is gone.

The steering wheel feels considerably different from, let’s say, our 335i, but that’s normal ,we’re driving a Sports Activity Vehicle and not a sporty sedan. So we got used to it and enjoyed the softer, easier to maneuver steering.

Even my passengers are seeing now the advantage of a diesel engine and are strongly considering one in the future. It is always difficult to convince someone until you actually offer them a remarkable trip aboard an X5d.

Interior space is still our favorite, plenty for three-four people equipped with lots of gear and electronic equipment. Those of you that have a larger family, you should feel comfortable that you could have a pleasant ride in this X5 diesel.

Tonight we’re heading down to Spartanburg and tomorrow we will have more updates for you, including a special experience there. In the mean time, we will shoot more video and show you how the car handled itself on those beautiful curvy roads.

The diesel engine sounds great and even my passengers are impressed with it, even though they are ridding for the first time in a BMW diesel. MPG has been around 25.2, so close to the advertised numbers. We’re enjoying the fact that the diesel gallon is cheaper than gas, so we’re coming up on top.

As far as interior space, plenty for three dudes equipped with computer gears and some duffel bags. We also enjoy the panoramic sunroof in this great 80F weather.

That’s it for now, we’ll be back soon with updates!

So the moment we have been waiting and planned for months: a team of three BMWBLOG people will take the new BMW X5 xDrive35d back to its roots, meaning, all the way to the BMW plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The idea behind this trip is to fully test the new BMW diesel engines and be able to give an accurate report on the advertised MPG numbers.

So, we will document the trip from the beginning until we reach the final point of destination and will accurately report all the findings as we go. We’re going to stop in different cities on our route, take some new photos and even shoot a few short videos. We’re going to make this trip fun and at the same time, taking you with us, even if it’s virtual.

We will check in a few times a day, so expect from us some short summaries, experiences and of course, a review of the BMW X5 diesel.

For those of you interested in more real time updates, you can follow us on Twitter twitter.com/bmwblog, we will constantly tweet there and upload photos. Facebook fan, we didn’t forget about you, our facebook.com/bmwblog will consists of many photos uploaded from our phones, so if you’re not our friend there yet, go ahead and request us.

Bottom line, we’re going to use all the newest, possible communications platforms to connect with you and we hope you will take advantage of that and most important, we hope you will enjoy this new experiment.

For those of you wondering what we’re actually doing at the Spartanburg plant, well….surprise again, but I promise I will reveal everything on Monday and Tuesday comes, we will do something really really cool….

That’s it for now, we’re getting ready to head out and put the X5 diesel through some fun driving.

We would like to thank BMW North America for allowing us to borrow the X5d and also for setting up the trip to the Spartanburg Plant. Thank you all in the BMW Communications team.

So today, we received our press car in the beautiful, sunny – at least today- Chicago. The X5d will stay with us for a week or so and it will be thoroughly tested, including …….a very long test drive all the way to…..Spartanburg, YES, we are heading down to BMW’s plant in South Carolina. While I can’t reveal all the secrets we have prepared for you next week, I can at least tell you that we will have a full report every few hours while driving to Spartanburg, each review will include photos and our first impressions. Think of this as some BMW X5 diesel blogging episodes…. Bottom line, we will take you with us in this unique trip we have prepared for a while now.

But in the mean time, being excited as always when I get behind a new BMW, I decided to take xDrive diesel for a “spin” and what can be better than testing it first in the always congested Chicago traffic.

The exterior design has always been one of our favorites among other BMWs, including the older style X5 which fit perfectly in the line-up when it first launched. The white painted xDrive35d sports that aggressive look that makes you fall in love with BMW’s first Sports Activity Vehicle and as crazy as it might sound, it looks quite interesting with the flashy EfficientDynamics marketing painted on the car.

I know in the past many of you had your objections against the BMW diesel engines, especially those of you that live in Europe and are used to seeing them all the time, but for us, the non-diesel trained Americans, those engines are something special. And this twin-turbo 3.0-liter diesel engine with 265 horsepower and a stunning 425 lb-ft of torque at just 1750 rpm, doesn’t disappoint at all.

Coming from a twin-turbo 3.0 liter gasoline engine, I have to admit that it took me a few minutes to get used to it and ignore the slightly louder diesel engine, but after I became comfortable with the car and cruising down the highway at higher speeds, the sound was almost inaudible. I have never really been against the “roaring” sound of BMW engines and to me that’s what makes BMWs even more appealing.

As far as performance, BMW advertises the xDrive35d at 6.7 seconds from 0-to-60 mph and we agree, the car is snappy and once the full torque kicks in, the full turbo experience is  impressive for a 5,111 pounds SAV. The output is sent to the wheels by a six-speed automatic transmission, of course, coupled with the intelligent xDrive system.

After the first thirty minutes of “playtime”, decided to push it a bit harder and of course, 95 mph was just a few seconds away -shhh, no cop was around and it was for a short distance. Even at that higher speed, the X5 diesel dominates the road, very solid, extremely well balanced, but still comfortable.

The purpose of this review is to simply give you my impressions after sitting for the first time behind the wheel of an X5d, so we won’t be going into many other details, our long distance test drive will provide me with more data to analyze and implicitly, a more fair and objective review.

Inside, the typical BMW layout is present with the now classic dashboard and controllers, a simple but elegant design. Since it can’t be “all sugar and honey”, we did find a small quirk that has driven crazy many BMW fans in the past few years: the old style iDrive controller. While no official statement has ever been released, our sources say that all the 2010 X5 models will receive the easier-to-use iDrive units found in the new 3-series and 7-series.

That’s all I have for now, high quality photos, videos and detailed articles will follow in the next days. Stay tuned for some exciting things we have prepared for you.

Part of M Power Tour events, BMW will display their first xDrive Motorsport models ever built: the BMW X5 M and X6 M. Courtesy of Rboosted717, a member of Xoutpost, we have some real life photos X5M/X6M photos to share with you. Also, in a conversation with a BMW M specialist, he learned that the X5M/X6M models will have three special colors: red, blue and black, but the standard color pallet will also be available.

The next M Power Tour event will take place this Saturday and Sunday, June 6-7, at the BMW Designworks USA headquarters in Newbury Park, CA.

There is also another thing we would like to share with you. Last month, BMW’s European Delivery desk informed us that for those U.S. customers interested in taking delivery of a BMW at the Welt Center in Munich, they will automatically receive a free M track day behind the X5M/X6M models in Salzburg, Austria.

The first U.S. xDrive M models will be available in October. The BMW X5 M has a base price of $85,400 while the X6 M is priced at $88,900.

[For more information from these events, visit Xoutpost.com ]

BMW decided to “show off” the impressive, but sometimes overlooked, off-road capabilities of the X5 and launched some videos showing footage of the BMW X5 on an adventure trip in Namibia driving through deep sand, river banks, mountains and on gravel roads.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

I haven’t had a chance to drive the X5 off-road, but future plans have us going to the Spartanburg Performance Center and take the X5 through the improvised obstacle course.

Just a month later, BMW released new footage of the X5 M being driven by Nick Heidfeld who also takes the time to talk about the car.

Click here to view the embedded video.

As a refresher, BMW X5 M and X6 M are powered by a tuned up 4.4 liter V8 M engine delivering 555 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 5,650 rpm. The engine uses the twin-scroll twin turbo technology with High Precision Direct Injection. BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M run from 0-60 mph in ONLY 4.5 seconds, making the M twins the fastest SUV/SAVs out there.

Unfortunately, the timing issue might not have been in BMW’s advantage, especially when the gasoline prices dropped significantly at the end of last year, while the diesel gallon price was still high. Of course, these product launches follow a timeline and things are set in motion months ahead of the launch date, even years for certain vehicles, so we have to admit that it is difficult for any auto manufacturer to predict these situations.

While no one has really argued the pros of a diesel engine, efficiency and clean technology, there were many consumers worried about the performance and higher upfront costs. In our BMW 335d test drive at the L.A car show, we stated that if you are in the premium market, and you’re looking for something fun, sporty, luxurious, and in the same don’t like hybrid Toyotas and Lexus’s, the 335d is worth a shot. BUT…we also said that if you already own a 335i and love driving manual transmissions, then take a rain check this time.

As far as the X5d goes, we haven’t had much experience behind its wheel, but this will change shortly when we will take it across the coast in a unique review, so stay tuned for more details in the upcoming weeks.

Now let’s see if New York Times agrees with us and hear their opinion on the BMW 335d and X5d.

BMW’s dual entries — the 335d sedan and the tongue-twisting X5 xDrive 35d sport utility — struck me as perhaps the most desirable specimens yet.

I want their performance, which stacks up against BMW’s enthusiast-endorsed gasoline versions. I need their fuel economy, especially the stellar 37 miles a gallon on the highway that I received in the 335d. But on the rare occasions when I stopped to refuel, my ballad-worthy love for the Bimmers was soured somewhat by the volatile price of diesel. At the pump, these BMWs — like their counterparts from Audi, Mercedes and Volkswagen — turn into nutty spouses on a credit-card binge.

Nutty has been the word for diesel prices. When I reviewed the VW Jetta TDI diesel on these pages last November, diesel fuel sold for $2.95 a gallon nationwide, compared with $2.05 for regular gas. That huge premium wiped out the Jetta diesel’s considerable mileage advantage. And since the diesel model costs $700 more than the gasoline version (accounting for its $1,300 alternative fuel tax credit), its money-saving argument seemed less compelling.

Full Article ( A free subscription might be required)

The Shanghai Motor Show was the event chosen by BMW to unveil their first M Sports Activity Vehicle: the BMW X5 M. If NYC was all about the X6 M, in Shanghai BMW focuses on high-end models, including the new 760Li and of course, the X5 M.

The X5 M is, along with the X6 M, is powered by a modified twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine, which outputs 550 horsepower between 5,750rpm and 6,000rpm and a peak torque of 500 lb-ft. It runs from 0 to 62 mph in about 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph.

BMW says that by adding an optional M driver’s package, the speed delimiter is raised to 171 mph.

The two turbochargers in the M TwinPower unit are positioned together with the catalytic converters between the two rows of cylinders, an innovation patented by BMW already. The idea behind it? Reducing the unnecessary turbo lag.

To differentiate itself from the regular X5 or the one with the M package, the usual Motorsport design elements are present: aggressive front-bumper, M gills and quad exhaust pipes.

Same M branding is applied in the interior of the X5 M, from the M steering wheel to the M shifter knob and M instruments.

Pricing has not been officially announced, but insiders told us to expect the BMW X5 M to cost around $85,000 in the U.S. and over 100,000 euros in Germany.

Unfortunately since we have not attended the Shanghai Auto Show, the photos selection is limited, but as soon as we get our hand on more shots, we will update the article. We’ll promise to do better at the next auto show, as usual.

For those of you not familiar with these standards, let me put it in easier words: the BMW X5 Security Plus “doesn’t fear” an AK-47.

Same as the previous model, the windows are upgraded to laminated 22-mm thick security glass and the car makes use of high-performance steel molded components and panels. The body features sealed joints providing support between doors and frames as well as between side panels and pillars.

An intercom system and around the car camera system can assist the passengers in extreme cases when stranded inside the car.

BMW X5 Security Plus is powered by the 4.8-litre V8 engine delivering 355 horsepower and peak torque of 350lb-ft (475Nm) at just 3,400rpm. The BMW X5 Security Plus accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 112mph (180 km/h).

What makes this vehicle even more interesting is the fact that even to the most observant person, the X5 Security Plus can pass on as a regular production model, providing discretion and a higher level of security.

Munich. BMW is extending its range of security vehicles by an additional model in a new protection class. The BMW X5 Security Plus complies with the requirements of bullet resistance class 6 (APR 2006), bringing versatile mobility and comprehensive protection against criminal assault into line with each other. It is the first vehicle produced by a high-volume manufacturer to offer a security concept aimed at lessening the danger of attacks using the world’s most widely used handgun of the type AK 47.

The vehicle, which was developed on the basis of the successful BMW X5 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), offers room for up to four persons inside an exceptionally well-protected passenger cabin. Moreover, its superior drive and suspension technology also allows the driver to cope effortlessly with demanding situations, both on the road and on rough terrain. With the BMW X5 Security Plus, BMW is defining a new benchmark in protection against crime on the road.

The security concept for the BMW X5 Security Plus focuses on its armoured passenger cabin. It guarantees excellent protection, including the use of high-performance steel moulded components and panels. The body features sealed joints, which also provide protection in critical areas – e.g. between doors and frames as well as between side panels and pillars – thus preventing bullet or fragment penetration, as well as security glass conceived exclusively for this bullet resistance class. Furthermore, the windows resist attack using clubs, crowbars etc. and feature a polycarbonate coating that protects the interior from glass shatter.

BMW X5 Security Plus: Premiere for a new benchmark in security.
The BMW X5 Security Plus was tested in compliance with the BRV 1999 guideline for bullet-resistant vehicles and offers protection according to VPAM – APR 2006 in the bullet resistance class 6. The professional protection concept for the new BMW X5 Security Plus is, inter alia, designed to combat criminal threats such as robbery, abduction or carjacking, however, additionally for employment in hot spots in which the AK 47 has become a typical firearm used by assailants. The BMW X5 Security Plus offers comprehensive protection against these kind of attacks. Its security features were devised exclusively for this model and thoroughly tested within the framework of product development. The integration of the protective components was effected parallel to the series development of the BMW X5.

Effective protection as standard, perfectly tuned to the Sports Activity Vehicle.
Therefore, like all other BMW security vehicles, the BMW X5 Security Plus also offers comprehensive protection as standard. As opposed to retrofitted armour plating, BMW security vehicle assembly guarantees that all components are perfectly adapted to each specific model and, in addition, correspond the stringent BMW quality assurance guidelines. Assembly of the BMW X5 Security Plus is effected parallel to the production vehicle at the Spartanburg plant in South Carolina/USA. The installation of protective features is performed in accordance with BMW processes at the Toluca plant (Mexico). BMW’s more than 30 years of experience in security vehicle construction is apparent both in the development and the production of the BMW X5 Security Plus.

The standard security features of the BMW X5 Security Plus include, in addition to the effective armour plating, distinctive technical attributes that provide assistance in dealing with hazardous situations. An intercom system facilitates communication with persons outside the vehicle, without having to open doors or windows. The hold-up alarm ensures that windows and doors lock automatically. Furthermore, acoustic and visual alarm signals are emitted. The system’s control elements are located behind a panel on the centre console.

Optional features include a rear view camera which transmits its images to the control display of the iDrive operating system located on the dashboard, providing assistance during reversing. The camera of the side view system integrated into the front bumper offers a detailed overview of what is going on in front of the vehicle. For example, when leaving a multi-storey car park or driving through narrow gateways, it is possible to identify cross traffic in good time.

Furthermore, the standard features of the BMW X5 Security Plus also include bi-xenon headlights with adaptive cornering light. These ensure optimum visibility thanks to a light beam that follows the course of the bend. In addition, this cornering light function ensures premature illumination of the road ahead when changing direction at road junctions or driveways.

Agile and safe on any terrain.
Over and above the outstanding level of security, the BMW X5 Security Plus also impresses with the highest degree of comfort, first-class handling and extremely sporty road performance. Thanks to its generous interior, its powerful eight-cylinder engine and intelligent four-wheel drive BMW xDrive, it is adequately equipped both for everyday traffic as well as for situations requiring fast and flexible response.

The 4.8-litre V8 power unit of the BMW X5 Security Plus delivers an output of 261 kW/355 bhp and a maximum torque of 475 Nm achieved at an engine speed of 3,400 rpm. The BMW X5 Security Plus accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h.

Thanks to its intelligent four-wheel drive system xDrive, the BMW X5 Security Plus is not restricted to driving on tarmac alone, but can also cope confidently with problematic off-road terrain. The cross-linking of the four-wheel drive with the stability control system DSC within the Integrated Chassis Management system (ICM) facilitates distribution of power that is optimally and precisely adapted to each driving situation. Taking into consideration the data supplied by the DSC sensors, iDrive transfers power at lightning speed to the wheels with the best traction.

The suspension featured by the BMW X5 Security Plus is perfectly adapted to the increased weight. For this purpose, specific suspension components such as springs and dampers have been employed and the software for suspension management has been adapted to the unique characteristics of a security vehicle. In order to further enhance superiority in demanding situations, the BMW X5 Security Plus features as standard a high-performance brake system, speed-dependent Active Steering and the Adaptive Drive system, comprising active anti-roll control and variable damper adjustment.

In addition, the BMW X5 Security Plus boasts tyres with emergency running properties. This ensures that the tyres remain functional even after a total loss of pressure, e.g. after being shot at or after running over sharp or pointed objects. When the vehicle is partially loaded, they permit safe driving over a distance of around 150 kilometres at a speed of up to 80 km/h.

A further advantage of the protection concept available ex factory is the neutrally designed integration of all security components. Even to the practiced eye, security vehicles built by BMW can hardly be distinguished from corresponding production models. This does justice to customer demands for discretion and also provides passengers with a higher level of security.

At the same time BMW offers its customers comprehensive global support. This ranges from discreet consulting and all-round service to the supply of spare parts. All security vehicles are designed to facilitate maintenance and repair at regular BMW garages. The service also includes a company-owned pool comprising security and high-security vehicles.

Moreover, BMW provides special security vehicle driver training. These courses, which BMW has conducted for more than 20 years now, are offered at various grades, depending on the participants’ previous knowledge, and are held at several different locations worldwide. These training courses are conducted by highly qualified experts. The contents range from comprehensive theoretical tuition and practical vehicle handling to instruction on tactical behaviour.