Fresh accents for even better sporting performance: BMW X3 and BMW X5

Dynamic handling characteristics are still the trademark of BMW’s Sports Activity Vehicles. In each of their segments both the BMW X3 and the BMW X5 are seen as the benchmark for agility and driving pleasure. In the spring of 2012, the sporting
character of the
two BMW X models will be further underscored by innovations added to the range of engines and equipment features. A new and particularly powerful engine for the BMW X3 xDrive28i, Driving Experience Control for individual vehicle settings for all variants of the BMW X3 and the M Sport Edition of the BMW X5 ensure targeted optimisation of sporting qualities.
Furthermore, the choice of optionally available driver assistance systems featured by BMW ConnectedDrive is being further extended for the BMW X3.

New BMW X3 xDrive28i: Faster sprint, better fuel economy thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology
Starting in the spring of 2012, all BMW X3 model variants will be powered by engines equipped with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology. The latest addition to the drive train portfolio is the 2-litre, four-cylinder 180 kW/245 hp petrol engine, which gives the BMW X3 xDrive28i even more power and efficiency. The technology package employed in this engine comprises a supercharging system operating according to the Twin Scroll principle, High Precision Injection with direct fuel injection, Valvetronic variable valve control and double Vanos variable camshaft control. This combination guarantees not only spontaneous throttle response and sporty power delivery continuing into the high load range, but also fuel economy that is outstandingly favourable even for a petrol engine of this performance class.

Compared to the predecessor engine, the new power unit mobilises 40 per cent higher maximum torque, which has now increased to 350 Nm and is available within a significantly broader engine speed range between 1,250 and 4,800 rpm. Thanks to the boost in pulling power and response resulting from this, the new BMW X3 xDrive28i accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds – 0.2 seconds faster than the predecessor model. The advancement made in terms of efficiency is even more significant. With an average fuel consumption of 7.5 litres/100 km in the EU test cycle and a CO2 emission level of 175 grams per kilometre, previous figures have been undercut by around 17 per cent.

The new power unit comes as standard in conjunction with the eight-speed automatic transmission. The intelligent four-wheel drive system BMW xDrive with electronically controlled and variable power distribution between the front and real wheels provides optimum transfer of torque to the road and off-road terrain.

Driving Experience Control including ECO PRO Mode as standard
Moreover, in future, all BMW X3 model variants will be equipped as standard with the Driving Experience Control feature. At the press of a button located on the centre console next to the gearshift lever or gear selector lever respectively, the driver is able to vary the vehicle setting. There is a choice between the 'Comfort', 'Sport' and 'Sport+' modes as well as the ECO PRO mode. Driving Experience Control has an effect on the settings of the stability control function DSC, the characteristic maps of the accelerator pedal and Servotronic power steering and, depending on how the vehicle is equipped, also the gearshift characteristics of the automatic transmission and the control map of the Dynamic Damper Control system.
In the ECO PRO mode, an exceptionally economical driving style is supported thanks to corresponding adjustment of the drive control and efficiency-optimised operation of the heating and air-conditioning unit, the exterior mirror heater and the seat heater. Specific visual displays in the instrument cluster inform the driver about the additional range obtained as a result.

Extended range of BMW ConnectedDrive features
In the spring of 2012, the choice of BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance systems available for the BMW X3 is also to be extended yet again. The Speed Limit Info System including the No Overtaking Display is now available as a new option. The system informs the driver by means of corresponding symbols in the instrument cluster about identified speed limits and no overtaking signs at the roadside or on overhead sign gantries identified by its camera.

In addition, the BMW X3 is now also available with the Lane Departure Warning function including rear collision warning. This system monitors road markings by means of a camera mounted on the base of the rear view mirror and helps to avoid unintentional course deviations. If the vehicle leaves the lane before the direction indicator has been activated, the steering wheel begins to vibrate. In addition, the camera detects other vehicles ahead and, if necessary, a two-stage alarm function comprising visual and acoustic signals is activated to avoid collisions.

BMW X5: M Sport Edition for particularly dynamic performance
In the spring of 2012, the BMW X5 model range will be complemented by a BMW M Performance Automobile, which in addition to a 280 kW/381 hp diesel power plant with innovative three-stage turbocharging, also features an M-specific suspension setting and a particularly impressive and aerodynamically optimised design. Simultaneously with the market launch of the BMW X5 M50d, the new M Sport Edition will be offered for all further model variants. It contributes effectively towards a further enhancement of the supremely powerful and agile characteristics of the Sports Activity Vehicle, thereby also emphasising its visual qualities.

The M Sport Edition comprises M exterior features for optimising air guidance, 20-inch M light alloys including tyre mix, BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line, Xenon lights (standard on the BMW X5 xDrive50i and the BMW X5 xDrive40d) and Adaptive Cornering Headlights. The BMW X5 xDrive50i is also equipped with pneumatic rear wheel suspension including automatic levelling. For all other model variants, the M Sport Edition offers a sporty suspension setting.

The sporting ambience in the interior is emphasised by the M leather-clad steering wheel with shift paddles, BMW Individual anthracite roof lining, BMW Individual interiors trim strips in black piano lacquer, doorsills boasting the M logo, stainless steel pedals and the M footrest for the driver. The M Sport Edition also includes electrically adjustable sports seats. The new M Alcantara/Black Nappa leather combination is available exclusively in conjunction with the M Sport Edition.

Over and above that, the range of special equipment for the BMW X5 will in future also include the optional heated steering wheel in conjunction with the M leather-clad steering wheel. From the spring of 2012, the colour variant Orion Silver metallic will be available as a new exterior paint finish.

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