BMW X5 is a crossover SUV, but BMW calls it a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) rather than an SUV. This because according to BMW the X5 is a rugged vehicle that has enhanced capabilities for road. The first generation model of the X5 was the E53, which was launched in 1999 and lasted up till 2006. The present model, Volkswagen X5 E70, is the second generation X5, and was launched in 2006. The M version of the X5 SAV was announced in 2009, and is a high performance version of the X5. BMW sold more than 35,000 X5’s in the year 2010 in the US alone. Here is why this is one of the more popular SUV’ sin the market.
The current model of X5 seats seven, which is an improvement over the predecessor, which seated only 5. On top of that, it also has more cargo space than the E53. The BMW X5 comes in three variants: X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive35d and X5 xDrive50i. The names may sound confusing, but once you note that the term “xDrive” is used to refer to the standard all-wheel-drive that enhances the X5′s all-weather capability and makes it the SUV that it is, it becomes easier to get used to.
The 35i model features a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces more than 300 horsepower. The 50i model has a twin-turbo V8 that produces more than 400 hp and matching torque at 450 lb-ft. The two “i” models come with the standard 8-speed automatic transmission. The 35d model comes with a fuel-efficient turbo diesel engine that produces 265 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque. The SAV comes with a standard 6-speed automatic.
BMW X5 is designed with luxury in mind, and the car interiors will not disappoint even the ones used to the best. The materials used in crafting the interiors are of excellent quality, and the craftsmanship will not allow for even one complaint from anyone but the most critical. The 3.0L engine delivers a mileage of about 8.8 km/pl in city conditions, and about 13.8 km/pl on the highway. The larger V8 engines deliver a mileage of 5.7 km/pl and 10.4 km/pl in the same conditions respectively.
Because it is a luxury model, it comes with features that are not available on many. For example, you can get a video system that allows for easier parking. You do not have to look into the rear view mirror once you have that system installed in your X5. This is just one example of theadvantages of X5 – to get to know more about it, check out any dealership where you can find the BMW X5 for sale. If you want a vehicle that moves in style, on and off road, this is the one for you.