BMW Malaysia Launch the New BMW X5
Kuala Lumpur, 30 May 2007 – BMW Malaysia introduced the new BMW X5 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) to the Malaysian media today. The latest BMW X5 is the second generation of premium SAV’s to come from this brand. First introduced in 2001, the BMW X5 was the first in this segment, offering customers a package that combined sporty dynamic driving and the versatility of four-wheel drive in a luxury package.
The new BMW X5 offers even greater driving dynamics, flexibility and exclusivity. In Malaysia, the new BMW X5 comes in all three new engines variants with even more power and enhanced efficiency, offering a package that combines the very latest technological advancements as well as luxury.
Presenting the new BMW X5, Mr. Wolfgang Schlimme, Managing Director, BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd said, “The first generation BMW X5 was a motoring milestone in that it paved the way for not only a brand new type of vehicle but also defined a brand new segment within the automotive industry – the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) Segment. With the new X5, we have once again taken the lead with a truly unique product that combines unparalleled driving dynamics and luxury”.
Schlimme added that the X5 was so successful that it accounted for sales of more than 600,000 units worldwide and he is confident that the second generation X5, with all its offering will be more popular than its predecessor.
“While the segment has grown over the years with other competitors who followed with similar concepts, the X5 continued to lead and dominate the segment in Malaysia with a market share of 76% which corresponds to 532 vehicles since 2002. This means that 3 out of every vehicle sold in this segment over the last 5 years has been an X5”.
In size, the new X5 measures almost 19 centimetres or 7.5’’ longer than its predecessor, but still maintains its typical proportions and sporting perspectives with the extra size only apparent from the inside. The fact that it is a 7-seater now would not be apparent unless one took a closer look.
Despite the larger dimensions, BMW’s engineers and designers have succeeded in keeping the new X5’s weight almost unchanged while making the body even stiffer in the process. This is achieved with intelligent lightweight technology and materials designed for maximum safety combined with superior agility.
The new BMW X5 offers two petrol engines and one diesel engine. The top end variant of the new BMW X5 now sports a 4.8 litre V8 petrol engine (OUTPUT: 261 kW/355hp), (MAX TORQUE: 475Nm) whilst the the BMW X5 3.0si, features a six cylinder petrol engine (OUTPUT: 200 kW/272hp), (MAX TORQUE: 315Nm). The diesel powered BMW X5 3.0d, meanwhile, offers 160kW/218hp from a three litre engine churning out a maximum torque of 500Nm or 383 lb-ft which is maintained between 2000 and 2750rpm.
The new X5 is the epitome of the BMW tagline, ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ with permanent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system and double wishbone front axle suspension system with Active Steering. Unique to the BMW X5 4.8i is AdaptiveDrive which carefully coordinates interaction of the anti-roll bars and dampers for superior driving behaviour. This is a feature previously only available in high-performance sports sedans.
The new X5 now comes with a third row of seats which provide adequate space for two more passengers. If the additional seats are not required, the seats slip down individually into the floor of the luggage compartment, completely out of sight hence providing a large cargo area.
The xDrive all-wheel drive, DSC Dynamic Stability, engine management and Active steering are all networked with one another via Integrated Chassis Management, ensuring an optimum balance, of drive power distribution, and engine management.
Interior-wise, the new X5 exudes functionality and refinement with sophisticated design qualities built in. A stylish ambience furnished with high quality materials and tasteful colour combinations give the X5 the style of a luxury saloon with the variablility and functionality of a modern SAV.
Features of the new BMW X5 include the BMW Navigation System Professional, BMW Radio System Professional with AUX-IN for music from external audio sources, Cruise Control with Brake Function, Park Distance Control, Preparation for Bluetooth Mobile Phone Interface as well as BMW iDrive. Another first in the new BMW X5 include the integration of runflat tyres as a standard. The runflat tyres allow the motorist to go on driving for up to 150 kilometres at a maximum of 80km/h even after a complete loss of tyre pressure.
Head Up Display, a feature exclusive to the X5 4.8i allows data to be projected onto the windscreen, and the driver has his road speed, navigation instructions, speed control data and warnings right in front of his eyes at all times.
“The first X5 set the benchmark in luxury, flexibility and sporting dynamics. With the new X5, customers will find that we have raised that bar and set the benchmark higher once again. We have ensured that the best of BMW technology is in the X5 by offering a full range of specifications. The customers in this segment do not make compromises and we have ensured that with the X5, they will not have to make any”, said Schlimme.
The retail prices (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW X5 are:
§ BMW X5 4.8i – RM 888,000
§ BMW X5 3.0si – RM 548,000
§ BMW X5 3.0d – RM 558,000
