Audi BMW

Our friend Richard Aucock continues his coverage from the 2011 BMW X5 LCI event in Miami, Florida. Today’s topic of discussion: BMW’s steering system in the X5.

“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.’

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Our New York Auto Show coverage begins with the 2011 BMW X5 LCI, a North American debut.

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 goes 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.

Zero to sixty times are estimated at 6.4 seconds for the 35i and 5.3 seconds for the 50i. Which is drastically faster than the past engines.

In order to reign all of this power in, an all-new 8-speed steptronic automatic, of which you see in the 5-Series GT and the 760Li. The new transmission weighs no more than the 6-speed model it replaces, and offers better gearing for lower speeds and rpm to make the X5 faster from a dig. It also adds the two extra gears up top to help with efficiency at highway speeds.

You can also select gears manually, as always before, by pulling the gear shift closer to you and pushing and pulling the shifter forward or back (-/+).

We will have a chance to test drive the X5 LCI in two weeks and we’ll make sure to report back our findings.

Photos credit Shawn Molnar

Press Release:

New Model includes 4,000 new parts

More dynamic, efficient, and luxurious than ever, the new BMW X5 continues to strengthen its leading position within the four-wheel drive, premium vehicle segment. The new BMW X5 has a fresh new look and features new engines, drive trains, and thousands of new parts.  The associates at BMW Manufacturing have been planning the launch of this new model for over 18 months, which involves nearly 4,000 new parts.

Since launching the original BMW X5 in 1999, this new model X5, the fourth generation, features a completely revised range of engines, standard eight-speed automatic transmission and innovative driver assistance systems that ensure the driving pleasure of the new X5 offers even greater fascination.  The production launch of this new model occurred as a digital changeover within Plant Spartanburg, meaning that production associates learned new vehicle processes alongside existing processes and parts were seamlessly transferred into the new model X5.  This changeover took place over a single weekend, with no ramp-down of the 2010 model on March 19 and no ramp-up of the 2011 model on March 22.

“The new model X5 features exterior design changes including new front and rear bumpers, new front fenders, new headlights and new tail lights.  This adaptation significantly enhances the presence of the new X5, making it look fresher and more elegant,” said Bobby Hitt, Department Manager for Corporate Affairs, BMW Manufacturing Co. “In spite of significantly improved performance, thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics, fuel consumption and emission levels are lower by up to 10%.”

“One of the most significant changes for our plant was the introduction of a completely new range of gasoline and diesel engines. Almost every new X5 is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard.  Further, each new drive train offers a new transfer case, new front and rear differentials, and new drive shafts,” states Craig Westbrook, BMW Manufacturing’s Project Manager for the New Model X5.

With the addition of BMW ConnectedDrive and new driver assistance systems, several new safety features come standard on the new BMW X5.  The Lane Departure Warning feature alerts the driver to unintentional drifting from the roadway by sending a vibration through the steering wheel.  Side View cameras integrated into the front of the car allow the driver to see traffic coming from the left or right.  Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function ensures that the selected distance from the vehicle ahead is maintained; the system will slow the car down and even come to a complete stop – without the driver ever touching the brake pedal.

BMW Manufacturing Co.
BMW Manufacturing Co. is a subsidiary of BMW AG in Munich, Germany and is the global producer of the BMW X5 Sports Activity Vehicle and X6 Sports Activity Coupe. In addition to the South Carolina manufacturing facility, BMW North American subsidiaries include sales, marketing and financial services operations in the United States, Canada and throughout Latin America; and a design firm and technology office in California. For more information on BMW Manufacturing, visit www.bmwusfactory.com.

Press Release: New Model includes 4,000 new parts. More dynamic, efficient, and luxurious than ever, the new BMW X5 continues to strengthen its leading position within the four-wheel drive, premium vehicle segment. The new BMW X5 has a fresh new look and features new engines, drive trains, and thousands of new parts. The associates at BMW Manufacturing have been planning the launch of this new model for over 18 months, which involves nearly 4,000 new parts.

Since launching the original BMW X5 in 1999, this new model X5, the fourth generation, features a completely revised range of engines, standard eight-speed automatic transmission and innovative driver assistance systems that ensure the driving pleasure of the new X5 offers even greater fascination. The production launch of this new model occurred as a digital changeover within Plant Spartanburg, meaning that production associates learned new vehicle processes alongside existing processes and parts were seamlessly transferred into the new model X5. This changeover took place over a single weekend, with no ramp-down of the 2010 model on March 19 and no ramp-up of the 2011 model on March 22.

“The new model X5 features exterior design changes including new front and rear bumpers, new front fenders, new headlights and new tail lights. This adaptation significantly enhances the presence of the new X5, making it look fresher and more elegant,” said Bobby Hitt, Department Manager for Corporate Affairs, BMW Manufacturing Co. “In spite of significantly improved performance, thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics, fuel consumption and emission levels are lower by up to 10%.”

“One of the most significant changes for our plant was the introduction of a completely new range of gasoline and diesel engines. Almost every new X5 is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. Further, each new drive train offers a new transfer case, new front and rear differentials, and new drive shafts,” states Craig Westbrook, BMW Manufacturing’s Project Manager for the New Model X5.

With the addition of BMW ConnectedDrive and new driver assistance systems, several new safety features come standard on the new BMW X5. The Lane Departure Warning feature alerts the driver to unintentional drifting from the roadway by sending a vibration through the steering wheel. Side View cameras integrated into the front of the car allow the driver to see traffic coming from the left or right. Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function ensures that the selected distance from the vehicle ahead is maintained; the system will slow the car down and even come to a complete stop – without the driver ever touching the brake pedal.

BMW Manufacturing Co.
BMW Manufacturing Co. is a subsidiary of BMW AG in Munich, Germany and is the global producer of the BMW X5 Sports Activity Vehicle and X6 Sports Activity Coupe. In addition to the South Carolina manufacturing facility, BMW North American subsidiaries include sales, marketing and financial services operations in the United States, Canada and throughout Latin America; and a design firm and technology office in California. For more information on BMW Manufacturing, visit www.bmwusfactory.com.

[Source: BMW ]

At 2010 Geneva Motor Show, BMW took the cover off their latest update to the popular X5 Sports Activity Vehicle. 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 goes through an extensive facelift, the lower front bumper/fascia appears to have been lifted and given a little redesign from the X6, giving it 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, or halos as most like to call them, 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 off and go to that wonderful BMW heaven, wherever that is. 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. Zero to sixty times are estimated at 6.4 seconds for the 35i and 5.3 seconds for the 50i. Which is drastically faster than the past engines.

In order to reign all of this power in, an all-new 8-speed steptronic automatic, of which you see in the 5-Series GT and the 760Li. The new transmission weighs no more than the 6-speed model it replaces, and offers better gearing for lower speeds and rpm to make the X5 faster from a dig. It also adds the two extra gears up top to help with efficiency at highway speeds. You can also select gears manually, as always before, by pulling the gear shift closer to you and pushing and pulling the shifter forward or back (-/+).

The first BMW X5 facelifted vehicles will appear at U.S. dealerships this Spring.

For those of you that come to love our high-res wallpapers, today, we have a new set of them portraying the recently unveiled 2011 BMW X5 LCI.

As we mentioned a little bit earlier, most of the cosmetic changes take place at the front where the new the lower bumper/fascia appears to have been lifted and given a little redesign from the X6, giving it 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, or halos as most like to call them, that are full LEDs. As you can see in the picture, the fog lamps have now been placed higher on the bumper to allow better light emitting when off-roading, or in darker conditions. The rear taillights get a new L-shaped LED design.

These highly photoshoped wallpapers will outline some of the best qualities of this new X5 facelift.

We are continuing our BMW X5 LCI coverage with a new set of official photos. As you might recall, a few days ago, BMW has unveiled their latest X5 facelift with visible changes mostly around the exterior design.

The big surprise comes from underneath the hood. BMW decided to match the X6 engine line-up to its “older brother” and starting in the Spring, BMW consumers will have access to the popular twin-turbo six and eight cylinder engines.

The entry level model in the U.S. will be the BMW X5 xDrive35i, while the high-end version will carry the xDrive50i badge. In between them, the xDrive35d will continue to be the only diesel offering in the U.S. X-family.

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, or halos as most like to call them, that are full LEDs. As you can see in the picture, the fog lamps 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 get a new L-shaped LED design.

There are a new choice in exterior colors, too, which include, Deep Sea Blue, Platinum Grey and Sparkling Bronze. New interior choices are, Oyster and Cinnamon Brown for the upgraded Nevada Leather option.

The 2011 BMW X5 will go on sale this Spring and pricing will follow in the next weeks.

2011 BMW X5 Photo Gallery

Days after the official unveiling of the 2011 BMW X5 facelift, the first photos of the M-Sport package available for the LCI made its way onto the bmw.de online configurator.

The previous M Package for the X5 was released in Spring of 2009 and it included an M Aerodynamic package, Adaptive Drive, Sport Seats, M Leather Steering Wheel, M Aluminum Trim and 19 or 20 inch M wheels.

In the LCI/Facelif X5, the front-fascia goes through an aggressive change by featuring large air intakes built into the front-bumper. The foglights’ position have been changed as well, from above the bumper into the air intakes opening.

At the rear-end, the change is very subtle.

No pricing has been unveiled at the moment, but we expect to learn more in the upcoming weeks.

With the launch of the facelift for the BMW X5 (E70), it is also time to compare the revised design and engine line-up to its classic competitors from Ingolstadt and Stuttgart. While design can be quite subjective and usually based on personal preference, the technical details are the one that remain set in stone and help us differentiate between similar models.

So let’s begin first with the vehicle curb weight, the one element that influences the dynamic and sportiness of the car. Starting in the 300 horsepower range, the heaviest contender comes from Audi, the Q7 stops the scale at 5,206 lbs (2,280 kg). Second in weight comes the BMW xDrive35i with its 4,728 lbs (2,145 kg). The Mercedes-Benz ML350 is a tad lighter than the X5 35d, at 4,706 lbs (2,135 kg).

To compensate for its clear disadvantages, Audi has already announced the next Q7 will save about 440 lbs (200 kg). It is also worth noting that the Q7 is about 9 inches(23cm) longer than the X5, and around 12.2 inches(31 cm) longer than the M-class.

While you can order all three models with the Lane Change Warning technology, Active Cruise Control and a rearview camera, the BMW X5 offers even more exclusive optional equipment.The Head-Up Display provides additional comfort and reduces in some situations the need to monitor the speedometer, allowing the driver to focus on the road ahead. In addition, the BMW X5 offers the option of side cameras integrated in the front wheel arches (side view) and also a view of the vehicle from above (surround view).

BMW X5 features a Professional Navigation system with 8.8 inch LCD, the largest one when compared to its competitors. Audi Navigation Plus MMI comes with a 7.0 inch LCD and 6.5 inch LCD in the Mercedes COMAND APS system. One unique selling point for the X5 is unrestricted Internet access available in Europe.

Now, let’s get to the fun part: engines. Starting wit the “top dog” from BMW, the xDrive50i, powered for the first time by the 407 horsepower Twin-Turbo V8 engine found in several other BMWs. Its equivalent, at least on paper, from Audi is the Q7 4.2 FSI which produces 357 horsepower. Mercedes-Benz joins the game with its ML500 and 388 horsepower.

The entry-level engine is xDrive30d outputting 241 horsepower. In the same range, Mercedes introduces the ML 350 CDI with its 231 ponies. In the fuel consumption test, the X5 leads 7.4 liter/100km (31mpg), followed by the Mercedes 350CDI with 8.9 liter/100km(26.4mpg) and Q7 3.0 TDI at 9.1 liters/100km(25.8mpg).

With the new facelift, BMW introduces a new model in the X5 line-up. The xDrive40d is powered by the same 3.0-liter engine found in the 740d. The engine delivers 306 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque (600Nm). The Audi Q7 TDI tops it with its 340 horsepower and 9.9 liter of diesel per 100 km. Mercedes is being represented by the ML 450 CDI and its 306 horsepower.

Moving over again to the petrol engine market, BMW’s entry level model is the xDrive35i rated at 306 horsepower. Mercedes responds with the ML 350, 272 hp. Audi brings to the fight the Q7 3.6 FSI, along with its 280 hp. The xDrive35i average fuel consumption is rated at 10.1 liter/100km(23mpg), Audi Q7 at 12.1 liter/100km(19.43mpg) and around 12 liter/100km(19.6mpg) for the ML 350.

Once we have compared the most important technical facts, as always, the pricing comes into play. In Europe, the Audi Q7 3.6 FSI has a base price of 51,750 euro. The ML350 and xDrive35i go head-to-head with 54,859 euros, respectively 54,900 euros.

In the big petrol engines in the Audi Q7 4.2 FSI offers the lowest base price again, 69,200 euros, but with significant less power than the 388 hp from the ML 500 and 407 hp found in the xDrive50i. The high-end BMW X5 model will sell in Europe for 73,400 euros, while the ML 500 is slightly priced lower again, 72,982 euros.

At the entry level diesels with three liters of displacement, six cylinders, a turbocharger and 240 hp 3.0 TDI is priced at 52,700 euros. It is followed by the more fuel efficient BMW X5 xDrive 30d at 54,200 euros and the 231 hp Mercedes ML350 CDI priced at 55,751 euros.

The new BMW X5 xDrive40d comes with a great entry point price, 61,800 euros, more than 10,000 euros cheaper than the Q7 4.2 TDI (72,700 euros) and the ML450 CDI (72,923 euros).

As we mentioned earlier, the exterior design brings out different emotions in each of the above brands’ fans. While some are fond of the flashier, younger looking Q7, there are plenty others that enjoy a classic, solid but beautiful design seen on the X5 or the ML.

So we decided to leave our input out this time and instead, we’ll let you vote again.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

[Source: BimmerToday ]

Today, BMW took the cover off their latest iteration of the popular X5 Sports Activity Vehicle. 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 goes through an extensive facelift, the lower front bumper/fascia appears to have been lifted and given a little redesign from the X6, giving it 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, or halos as most like to call them, 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 off and go to that wonderful BMW heaven, wherever that is. 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. Zero to sixty times are estimated at 6.4 seconds for the 35i and 5.3 seconds for the 50i. Which is drastically faster than the past engines.

In order to reign all of this power in, an all-new 8-speed steptronic automatic, of which you see in the 5-Series GT and the 760Li. The new transmission weighs no more than the 6-speed model it replaces, and offers better gearing for lower speeds and rpm to make the X5 faster from a dig. It also adds the two extra gears up top to help with efficiency at highway speeds. You can also select gears manually, as always before, by pulling the gear shift closer to you and pushing and pulling the shifter forward or back (-/+).

To go with the extensive photo gallery released today, BMW also launches a series of videos showing the 2011 BMW X5 in all its glory.