Two of these models, namely the Mercedes-Benz S350 BlueTec and the Volkswagen Passat TDI, are new for 2012.

In 2011, the award went to the BMW 335d.

Voting starts at noon on November 18 and ends at midnight on March 1, 2012. The 2012 Diesel Car of the Year, as well as the two runners up, will be announced at the New York International Auto Show in April 2012.

The BMW Diesel X5 xDrive35d was introduced to the United States as a 2009 model. The huge torque output of 425 lb-ft. at 1750-2250 rpm speaks for itself; X5 xDrive35d drivers will marvel at this engine’s robust response at low to medium speeds. The peak power output of 265 hp also makes an impact, as does the resulting 0-60-mph time of 6.9 seconds. It returns EPA mileage estimates of 19 mpg city and 26 highway.

Vote for the 2012 Diesel Car Of The Year

The BMW X5 and X6 Exclusive Editions will feature the Orion Silver Metallic color currently available on the 6 Series, along with exquisite soft Nevada leather, special wheels and a dark bamboo interior strip.

It remains unknown at the moment if any power upgrades will be offered and what particular X5 and X6 variants are being targeted.

BMW will introduce these two models at the upcoming Frankfurt Auto Show in September, therefore we anticipate official information to hit the newswire in the upcoming days.

Clearly this remains a design exercise and BMW will most likely never offer an M3 pickup. But what about an X5 truck? What would a real bimmer truck look like?

Rendering artists Theophilus Chin used his magic mouse and design skills to draw out the X5 GranLastwagen, which simply means “Gran Truck” in German.

Now the following question arises: would you be interested in a vehicle of this type? Could the X5 truck compete with some of its American-built counterparts?

[Source: Theophilus Chin via Autoblog ]

The new 2012 M-Class shares its underpinnings with the new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee and will launch in the US this fall. Initially, the Stuttgart-based automaker will offer three variants: 2012 ML 250 Bluetec 4Matic, 2012 ML 350 Bluetec 4Matic and 2012 ML 350 4Matic BlueEfficiency.

Compared to the current model, the exterior design is sleeker and more sculpted, while maintaing essentially the same shape and size. Inside, Mercedes-Benz has redesigned the cabin, providing more front and rear elbow room. High-tech gadgets are included in the redesign. The most obvious difference in the interior is a switch from round air vents to rectangular. Among the available finishes are aluminum and four different kinds of wood, while material choices include microfiber, leatherette and high-quality leather.

The powerplants have been upgraded as well. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 250 Bluetec 4Matic gets a 2.1 liter 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine making 204-hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 Bluetec sports under the hood a new 3.0L V6 turbocharged diesel making 258-hp and 457 lb-ft of torque. 0 to 62 mph comes in 7.4 seconds with a top speed of 139 mph. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 4Matic BlueEfficiency will be the only gasoline model available at launch. It will be powered by a 3.5 liter V6 unit making 306-hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. 0 to 62 mph comes in 7.6 seconds with a top speed of 147 mph.

All wheel drive and 7-speed automatic transmission are included in the redesign.

Pricing is expected to be around the $50,000 mark for an ML350 4MATIC and around $52,000 for a BlueTec.

As always, BMWBLOG gives you a photo comparison against BMW’s top-seller SAV, the X5. Photos include both the X5 M Sport package, as well as the standard model.

Research from Tracker shows these four are the most commonly stolen and recovered premium vehicles, with the Audi TT coming in fifth. “These figures show that all car owners are a target for thieves. And with 84 per cent of all the cars we recovered last year being stolen using the keys, we remind every car owner to keep their keys safe at all times”, said Stephen Doran, Managing Director of Tracker.

With security technologies and anti-theft systems becoming smarter and smarter with each new generation, thieves are less relying on the old technique of breaking and entering, and they focus directly on stealing the keys.

The top 10 most stolen and recovered cars in the UK in according to Tracker’s research are:

1. BMW X5
2. Range Rover
3. BMW M3
4. Audi RS4
5. Audi TT
6. Mercedes-Benz SL
7. Mercedes-Benz CLK
8. Porsche 911
9. Volkswagen Golf
10. Mercedes-Benz ML

[Source: CarEnthusiast ]

BMW X5 Le Mans is using an engine from the LMR prototype car – a V12 derived from the same S70 block as the McLaren F1′s V12.

An article written by our own Andrew Murphy back in 2008 says that aside from the V12 putting out around 700 horsepower, this behemoth came with a 6-speed manual, 20 inch performance wheels and a significantly lowered suspension.

If that’s not enough for you, it’s reported that Hans Stuck – BMW’s famed touring car and test driver hustled this car around the Nurburgring in under 7 minutes and 50 seconds – that’s only 25 seconds slower than a Nissan GT-R or Porsche 997 GT2 – and that was eight years ago!

The BMW X5 Lemans goes from 0 to 100km/h in 4.7 seconds, and it is “limited” at 311km/h. A massive 720Nm of torque at 5,000rpm is sent trashing through the 20 inch wheels with 275/40 profile tyres at the front and 315/35 profile tires at the rear.

The weight balance is very slightly front-biased at ratio of 51 to 49, but still perfect for a racing car.

To maintain a relatively low weight, carbon fiber has been applied throughout the car and inside, the rear-bench has been removed.

Here is a full gallery of the BMW X5 Le Mans.

Among other features, new 20-inch light-alloy wheel rims are available for both models, while the choice of BMW ConnectedDrive technology has been augmented by the innovative BMW Apps feature. Meanwhile, a three-seater rear seat option making its debut in April 2011 adds greater flexibility to the usage of the interior of the BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupé, which started out as a four-seater model.

The new rear-seat variant is available for all BMW X6 models with the exception of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6, and can also be ordered for the BMW X6 M. The extra seat replaces the storage unit in the rear centre of the four-seater model. The five-seater Sports Activity Coupé is also optionally available in Nevada and Exclusive Nappa leather as well as BMW Individual Merino leather, encompassing the entire colour range. Another novelty is the operation of the standard eight-speed Sport automatic transmission. In future, the BMW X6 will feature shift paddles on the steering wheel whose operating logic follows the principle familiar from BMW M cars: for manual shifting of the eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, the right paddle is used for upshifts and the left for downshifts.

For the BMW X5 and BMW X6 alike, the choice of alloy wheels has been extended by a further option that positively enhances both the car’s dynamic cornering behaviour and its appearance. The 20-inch wheels in Y-spoke design and with a Black high gloss finish are combined with mixed tyres measuring 275/40 R 20 at the front and 315/35 R 20 at the rear. From spring 2011, Comfort Access – likewise available for both models – will include vicinity lighting integrated in the exterior door handles. In addition to automatic unlocking and activation of the ignition, this feature provides effective illumination of the car’s surroundings as soon as the electronic control of Comfort Access has recognised the car key carried by the driver.

Following directly on from the market launch, the extended range of BMW ConnectedDrive services also becomes available for the BMW X5 and the BMW X6. In future both models will be able to avail themselves of the BMW Apps special option. This feature enables owners of an Apple iPhone to stay in touch with the online services Facebook and Twitter while in the car, as well as receive radio stations from all over the world, irrespective of the car’s location, thanks to a web radio function. In addition to the current BMW ConnectedDrive application, customers will have a range of functions and apps available for free download at the Apple App Store.

With these latest innovations, BMW is systematically pursuing its ongoing product optimisation for these two models built at its US plant in Spartanburg. Most recently, last year’s market launch of the new BMW X5 and the comprehensive upgrading of the BMW X6’s drive technology gave a further boost to BMW’s success in this competitive environment. As well as the continued rise in BMW X5 sales in 2010, global growth in demand for the BMW X6 is also feeding the exceptional market success of the BMW X models. In just three years, more than 110,000 units of these Sports Activity Coupés have already been sold, 46,404 of them in 2010 alone. The BMW X5 posted worldwide sales of 102,178 units in the last business year.

[Source: BMW ]

Aerodynamics
Directly from BMW’s state-of-the-art Munich wind tunnel comes the comprehensive new BMW Performance Aero Kit for the 2011 X5 (excluding X5 M and models equipped with trailer hitch). The Aero Kit, which includes redesigned front and rear bumper covers and side skirts, is specifically sculpted to reduce aerodynamic drag and lift at high speeds, improving stability while making a dramatic, stylish statement. Additionally, BMW Performance has made available a set of black kidney grilles for the X5, which provides a sporty, menacing appearance for the front of the vehicle.

Interior
For the interior, BMW Performance has concentrated on the driver-machine interface, creating a new steering wheel and pedal set. The BMW Performance Aluminum Pedal Kit includes gas pedal, brake pedal, and footrest pedal, ergonomically crafted of aluminum with rubber inserts. The pedals fit all models of X5 and provide enhanced pedal feel for the driver.

Last but not least, BMW Performance has made available a unique multifunction steering wheel for X5 models. This direct replacement for the standard X5 steering wheel features a thick, racing-style, flattened lower rim and is fully covered in hand-stitched Alcantara material (Not available for X5 M and vehicles with Lane Departure Warning).

Those of you that are looking for other online retailers that provide accessories for your SUV or trucks, several independent companies have a large inventory of Truck Accessories.

[Source: BMW ]

The exterior changes are subtle to the “regular eye”. The 2011 X5 features full LED corona rings that serves as daylight runners as well. Subtle, but still noticeable is the new position of the fog lamps that have now been placed higher on the bumper to allow better light emitting when off-roading, or in darker conditions. And to continue following the lead of all new BMWs, the rear taillights are now available with two banks of LEDs, L-Shaped as seen in the other models.

The most important changes though can be found under the hood where the engines from the X6 SAC make a lateral move onto the X5 family. The times of naturally aspirated gasoline engines are long gone and turbocharged powerplants are back in business. The X5 comes to the North American market with two offerings, a choice between the 300 horsepower twin-scroll turbocharged model or a 400 horsepower twin-turbo V8.

Without any further ado, let’s have a look at their review.

No matter how good BMW makes the X5-and, as we’ll explain in a second, the 2011 model is better than ever — some people will never be able to get past one little point. Wouldn’t you rather have a 5 Series wagon? The answer, as the market has born out, is a resounding Nein! Americans seem to want absolutely nothing to do with a proper station wagon.

—-
Like everyone’s always said about the X5, for such a big, heavy vehicle, the handling’s pretty great, and seems to just keep getting better as the years roll on. Braking from 60 mph takes place in a very good 113 feet, and it clobbered our 200-foot figure eight in 26.3 seconds. Back to the Cadillac for comparison: The SRX took a lengthy 128 feet to stop from 60 mph and nearly a full second longer to scoot around the figure eight. Again, the Cadillac’s a six-footer lighter.

So yeah, the X5 xDrive35i is quite the athlete. And while the more potent xDrive50i (with its 407 hp, 450 lb-ft of torque motor) might be faster in a straight line, the six-cylinder X5 feels more balanced, more finely tuned. It’s the variant to get (unless you crave the slower, fewer-trips-to-the-gas-station, though more-expensive, low-rpm thrills of the diesel xDrive35d). Remember, you also get a fair amount of passenger room and BMW’s elegant, if not a touch Scandinavian, take on modern luxury appointments. Not bad at all, especially considering you can’t have the wagon.

Read full review at MotorTrend

Meet the BMW X5 Gold, or even better said, a wannabe “look at me” car that uses vinyl tape to give the X5 a disturbing gold plated paint.

No profiling here, but the owner seem to come from the Land of Russia, the same place where the Gold BMW M5 took our eye vision away. And not in a good way.

Not sure what the trend is in that part of Europe, but flashy vehicles have been known to appeal to the Russian market and we see no reason why this X5 Gold color wouldn’t be a hit among local aficionados.

Put your sunglasses on, sit back and…..enjoy this “piece of art”.

Oh and sorry you have to sit through the first two minutes before seeing the car.

Update: Photos of the X5 M in Gold vinyl.

CFRP, a recent buzzword introduced by BMW, short for carbon fiber reinforced-plastic, plays an essential role in weight savings for all upcoming Megacity vehicles. CFRP is approximately 50% lighter and at least as strong as steel, making the CFRP the lightest material that can be used in body construction of a vehicle without comprising safety.

Furthermore, CFRP has remarkably good energy-absorbing capabilities, making it very damage-tolerant and it also remains stable under all climatic conditions, two important factors in the decision of using carbon fiber in future vehicles.

BMW’s work in the carbon fiber production processes began nearly ten years ago and in 2003, BMW introduced a new-generation CFRP that makes body components production very cost efficeint and at a high quality standard.

Around the same time, BMW began experimenting with CFRP on some of their existing mass-production vehicles, and one of them to receive the “carbon fiber treatment” was the first generation BMW X5.

The BMW X5 4.6is features a unibody made out of CFRP. By using carbon fiber in the frame structure, BMW reduced the number of parts used in the X5. To furthermore reduce the overall weight, the on-off X5 comes with a CFRP-made hood, roof and rear hatch.

According to BMW, only the doors remain made out of steel.

Most of the savings are in the body structure and quoting a BMW specialist, the structure of the X5 is half of the weight of a regular first generation X5 model. The overall weight saving is 200 kilograms or 440 pounds.

The BMW X5 with carbon fiber parts has never been shown to the public before and it has been driven for 40,000 kilometers as part of a testing and development program in the carbon-fiber engineering efforts.

When it premiered in 1999, the four-wheel driven BMW X5 was the first vehicle of its kind. Since then, the concept of combining superior dynamics on tarmac with outstanding traction on off-road terrain, has been a show-stopper worldwide, whilst also generating crucial impulses for the BMW model portfolio. With the family of BMW X models, which has meanwhile grown to comprise a total of four members, the company has recorded steadily increasing sales figures unmatched by any other manufacturer with comparable vehicles.

The BMW X5 remains the symbol and most crucial innovator for the continuing success of the Sports Activity Vehicle concept. The spacious five-door car offers up to seven seats, its intelligent four-wheel drive system BMW xDrive guarantees awesome acceleration, both on and off road. Permanent, electronically controlled four-wheel drive technology distributes motive force to the front and rear wheels variably and according to each specific situation. Furthermore, a luxurious interior ambience and a wide choice of innovative driver assistance systems contribute towards the characteristic manifestation of driving pleasure so typical of a BMW.

Moreover, numerous awards document the outstanding product quality with regard to design, driving pleasure, safety and reliability. In 2007, the BMW X5 received, inter alia, the design prize “autonis” awarded by the trade journal “auto motor und sport“ for the most attractive design, as well as a Gold Award in the J.D. Power Study on customer satisfaction in North America. The American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) voted this Sports Activity Vehicle as the “Top Safety Pick” for outstanding crash test behaviour both in 2007 and 2008. Current proof of the vehicle’s exceptional reliability is given by the latest breakdown statistics issued by Europe’s largest automobile club ADAC, in which the BMW X5 ranks second place behind the BMW X3 in the all-terrain vehicle category.

Again in 2010, the BMW X5 is more than ever a role model and benchmark in its class in terms of driving dynamics, efficiency, variability, premium quality and safety. With a concisely modified design, a thoroughly revised engine range and additional innovative equipment features, it continues to extend its lead within the competitive environment. Its trendsetting qualities include outstanding efficiency unparalleled in this particular segment. A prime example of this is the BMW X5 xDrive30d, which is powered by a 180 kW/245 bhp straight six-cylinder diesel engine and achieves an average fuel consumption of 7.4 litres/100 km in the EU test cycle.

With its multitude of qualities the BMW X5 has become the most significant innovator within the entire competitive environment of four-wheel driven vehicles. At the same time, the premium car builder has also repeatedly assumed the cutting edge in each respective segment with the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe, the BMW X6, and with the compact BMW X1.

The development of the BMW Spartanburg plant is also closely linked with the success story of the BMW X5. The location, which has existed for 15 years now, has become the most crucial centre of expertise for BMW X models within the BMW Group’s global production network. Built in Spartanburg, the BMW X5 is now exported to more than 120 countries, with the BMW X6 also being produced there for export to the entire global market. Before the end of this year, production of the latest BMW X3 generation will commence at this location.

[Source: BMW ]

This is a significant achievement for the BMW Group’s only U.S. manufacturing facility at a time when the manufacturer is just months away from completing a $750 million expansion to prepare for production of the next generation BMW X3.

The BMW X5, which was originally launched in Spartanburg in 1999 as the first vehicle in the Sports Activity segment, has laid the cornerstone for BMW as the most successful premium vehicle manufacturer in the SAV/SUV segment during its 11-year history. This commitment to continuous improvement has resulted in numerous accolades for the vehicle’s design, quality and safety.

In 2000, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) declared the BMW X5 to be the safest vehicle ever to be crash-tested. In 2007, the BMW X5 received a gold award in the J.D. Power customer satisfaction study in North America. In 2007 and 2008, the X5 received the “Top Safety Pick Award” for outstanding crash test results from the IIHS. During this timeframe, approximately 60% of all X5’s produced at the Spartanburg facility have been exported to over 120 markets around the world.

“The success of the X5 is directly attributable to the designers of the vehicle, our parts suppliers and the many dedicated and hard working associates who continue to come together and create such a special vehicle,” said Mr. Josef Kerscher, President of BMW Manufacturing during a brief ceremony at the end of the production line.  The 1 millionth X5 coming off the assembly line today was ordered by a customer in China and will soon be shipped to the Port of Charleston to begin its journey overseas.

Joining Mr. Kerscher at today’s event were Secretary of Commerce Joseph E. Taylor and South Carolina State Ports Authority boardmember Richard Hagins. Unable to join the event, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham praised BMW’s commitment to America by growing its presence in South Carolina and exporting South Carolina-made BMW’s throughout the world. “It tells me, and should tell all South Carolinians, that world-class manufacturing in our state is not only doable, but that it can lead our economic recovery efforts,” said Senator Graham.  “This is a day of great pride for all South Carolinians and the BMW family.  It is a testament to the quality of the SC workforce, the supply chain, and to BMW, one of the greatest automobile manufacturers in the world.  Now, one million X5s later, BMW is one of the great business success stories in the history of South Carolina.  This milestone gives us hope for the future and is a positive sign that through world-class manufacturing our state will prosper will in the years ahead.”

[Source: BMW ]

As seen on the other models as well, the BMW performance enhance the already existing dynamic look of the X5. Besides the typical aerodynamic components, such as front and rear apron, and side skirts, the Performance program also includes a rear spoiler.

To give the X5 an even more unique look, there are also special 21 inch wheels offered in the BMW Performance catalog.

For more sporty sound and more dynamic look, the X5 LCI can be fitted with oval shaped exhaust tips.

At the moment, we cannot confirm whether the engine power of the X5 Performance Parts has been increased as well, similar to the BMW X6 Performance, but we certainly expect to see similar numbers. The X6 Performance had its horsepower upped from the factory 306 hp for the xDrive35i model to 326 hp. The performance of the standard 407 hp xDrive50i may be increased to a whooping 449 hp.

Inside, the X5 Performance goes through a similar treatment as its brother, the X6: performance steering wheel, Alcantara upholstery, aluminum pedals and special designed footrest.

We hope to have more detailed information and extensive photos in the next days.

[Source: BimmerToday ]

“ROADS are rough in the UK. We know that, and so does BMW’s Heinz Krusche.

Indeed, it is a characteristic that is almost unique in the world. ‘You sometimes find similar surfaces in France – but rarely.’

Our roads are also distinctively narrow, which means drivers have to concentrate far more here. ‘Cars must therefore have good steering feedback, because drivers need fine control.’

This is why steering feel is so vital in the UK! This is why we obsess about it: we go OTT, sure, but there’s method in our madness!

What about other countries, though? Krusche uses two examples by way of comparison:

Germany – speeds are higher, and there are more large-radius bends. Roads are not so narrow either, so lateral acceleration levels can be much higher. We have lots of cobbled roads, which are a special case as they can give a terrible ride. Here, you have to deal with certain frequencies to avoid trouble. At high speeds, stability is, of course, paramount, and a big priority.

LA – high camber and high temperatures (leading to warm, sticky tyres) mean it is very difficult to set up here! It is hard for yaw sensor calculations, for example – it is not a natural thing and has led to new models in our logic systems. If we use our normal models, it thinks things are wrong! These extreme parameters are unbelievably interesting for us, and prove the importance of testing all over the world.”

Continued at www.richardaucock.com

“BMW chose not to significantly change the 2010 X5 because customers didn’t want it to, explained BMW’s Heinz Krusche at the car’s launch.

‘We had no complaints, customers were ordering again, so there was no need to engineer big changes.’

It’s not to say Krusche sat idly, though – and again, it is customer feedback that led this development path. Surprisingly, the steering systems was the focus of much of this.

Servotronic is now standard on all models. Why? ‘This makes parking lighter: weighty steering during maneuvering was one of the complaints of the old car.’

But more comprehensive is the re-engineering to the optional Active Steering system. Krusche admitted that those who changed their cars often (just the sort of rich multi-car owner who might choose an option’d-up X5, then…) had difficulty in getting a feel for the system. ‘The change in ratio was too big, too different, especially at low speed.

‘Now, we take care more of actual steering input.

‘If there is higher input at lower speed, we increase the ratio for agility. However, if the driver steers gently, the ratio remains easy.’ In other words, it’s fast when you want it, normal when you’re steady. ‘People now feel less nervous driving it.’

Continue reading

“BMW says a year after the launch of the X5 M and X6 M, there’s been lots of good feedback. ‘People like the tuning,’ said chassis chief Heinz Krusche.

‘So we decided to give the new X5 more of this, too.’

BMW, he revealed, took the M versions’ standard model for DTC , which has led to a change in handling characteristics. ‘It is much more neutral with less understeer. Indeed, it’s more neutral to oversteer-biased, but it’s very smooth with it. This improves the agility of the handling.’

However, with DSC off, BMW has retained the settings for the standard model. ‘M models feel even more rear-led, with high relative slips angles and oversteer. This is NOT relevant for the X5.’

In essence, it’s a transfer of a new philosophy BMW introduced for X models with the X1. Basically, Krusche explained, in an unstable curve where the driver progressively increases steering input, torque is gradually increased to the rear of the vehicle – increasing the rear-drive feel and making it more agile.”

Continue reading and find out more about the underpinning technology found in the 2010 BMW X5.

The changes in the model year 2011 are quite significant, both in terms of exterior design, but most important, underneath the hood. The front-end went through an extensive facelift, the lower front bumper/fascia have been lifted and given a little redesign from the X6, offering an appearance that makes the front end look lower and more aggressive. It also allows for wider air openings to feed the larger and more powerful engines more air.

To go along with what BMW has been doing lately for the 3-Series LCI, 335is, and F10 5-Series, the X5 features corona rings that are full LEDs. The rear taillights get a new L-shaped LED design as well.

The outgoing X5 had three engine types, the X5 xDrive30i, xDrive48i and xDrive35d. While the diesel xDrive35d survives, the 30i and 48i die are being phased out.

In to replace the outgoing naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-6 and 4.8-liter V8 are the N55 twin-scroll single turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 making 300hp and 300lb-ft of torque, as well as the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 making 400hp and 450lb-ft of torque, similar to the engine in the X5 and X6 M models. So it will now be the X5 xDrive35i and xDrive50i, same with the X6.

The European market also sees the addition of a new model: 2010 BMW X5 xDrive40d powered by the same the 3.0-liter engine found in the 740d. The engine delivers 300 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque (600Nm).

North American sales will begin in May.

“BMW has reduced the CO2 emissions of its 2010 X5 range and claims it is now the greenest non-hybrid posh SUV you can buy.

Both new diesel variants, the xDrive30d and xDrive40d, emit less than 200g/km CO2. The 245hp xDrive30d can also average 38.2mpg.

While the xDrive40d averages a little less, at 37.7mpg, it combines this with a high 306hp power output. This means it accelerates to 60mph in just 6.6 seconds.

A new 8-speed automatic transmission is also standard on all models, joining the new engines. There is a 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo petrol xDrive50i too, but BMW will sell few of these.

It is the xDrive30d that will take 4 in 5 of all sales.

Prices are higher; the range now starts at £43,980 for the xDrive30d SE. This is between £1700-£2200 more than before. BMW claims it is even better value though, because leather seats and xenon headlights are now standard. Front and rear parking sensors, 18-inch alloys and dual climate control are included too.

There will also be an M Sport trim, with larger alloy wheels and racier styling. BMW says this will be the better-selling of the two trims, despite its £4500 premium.

In terms of looks, BMW has kept the 2010 X5 very similar in appearance to the older vehicle. This is to protect retained values of those cars already on the road.”

Last week, BMW began hosting its international media event where the spotlight is being put on the new X5 LCI. Along with the U.S. models, xDrive35i and xDrive50i, BMW also introduced for the first time to the European journalists, the latest and greatest diesel powered X5 SAV: xDrive40d.

The driving even consisted of a combination between city and highway driving, and some unexpected, but fun to do offroad driving. Despite the title of a Sports Activity Vehicle, the X5 certainly can perform some offroad duties as well, to an extent of course.