The most fuel efficient Crossover for highway travel just so happens to be more luxurious and better handling than anything in its class as well.
Wayne Gerdes -
CleanMPG - Feb. 7, 2010
2011 BMW X5d - $52,175 to start and 22 mpgUS combined on the 08 EPA. It is worth almost double this on the highway
This spring, BMW will write the latest chapter in the story of the world’s first Sports Activity Vehicle®, the BMW X5. Originally launched as a 2000 in late 1999, the BMW X5 changed the automotive landscape as the first luxury Crossover. It proved that the driving dynamics, responsiveness, and safety is compatible with utility, versatility, and off-road capability.
For 2011, the BMW X5d is enhanced with an updated design. The new BMW X5 will make its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show in April, and will go on sale at authorized BMW Centers shortly thereafter.
The refresh
The X5’s new look is led by the redesign of the front fascia and position of the standard fog lamps. With an increase in the number of body color painted pieces, the front end gives the impression of being lower. At the same time, the increased size of both the central and outer air intakes add a more aggressive stance from the front. The black trim at the bottom edge of the body is now considerably narrower. A matte-finished silver protection plate extends across the entire width of the central air intake, emphasizing the muscular features of the SAV, and accentuates the new X5’s character. The dual round Xenon Adaptive headlights and foglamps are now situated higher and closer to the kidney grille.
A choice of new body colors including Deep Sea Blue, Platinum Grey, and Sparkling Bronze are now available for the BMW X5. Inside, the available Nevada Leather can be chosen in stunning new Oyster or Cinnamon Brown colors in addition to the familiar Sand Beige, and Black, and matte Satin Silver interior trim strips are added if the owner does not select from the available Brushed Aluminum, Dark Bamboo, Light Poplar, or Burl Walnut wood trims.
Although not efficient enough to discuss in depth, all gasoline powered X5’s will be equipped with BMW’s Regenerative braking system that incorporates a special deep-cycle Glass Mat (AGM) battery with programmed alternator disengagement so that, most of the time, the vehicle’s battery is only charged while the vehicle is coasting or braking. Over time, the Brake Energy Regeneration system can save 1-2% on fuel consumption. Regeenrative braking is another feature in BMW’s EfficientDynamics portfolio of small features and adjustments which have a cumulative effect on the efficiency-performance balance of each BMW vehicle.
BMW’s Advanced Diesel Technology in the X5 xDrive35d
The BMW Advanced Diesel X5 xDrive35d was introduced to the United States as a 2009 model, and despite increased competition, remains the fastest, most fuel efficient diesel-powered vehicle in its class. The huge torque output of 425 lb-ft. at 1750-2250 rpm speaks for itself. All drivers of the X5d’s already enjoy possibly the best low RPM response from a standstill to well beyond the speed limits of any vehicle available in the country. The peak power output of 265 HP allows an unheard of 0-60-mph time of < 7 seconds while offering an EPA highway rating of 26mpgUS.
For 2011, BMW has made no changes to the award-winning BMW Advanced Diesel powertrain, but rather has focused efforts to ensure the X5 xDrive35d benefits from the latest design updates to the X5 family. Despite the enhancements for the new model year, MSRP for this model remains $52,175 including Destination & Handling.
BMW 3.0L Turbo-Diesel Emissions Control review
BMW’s Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance reduces emissions to ULEV-II levels by incorporating an oxidation catalyst (DOC) placed close to the engine, a diesel particulate filter (DPF) housed in the same unit, and a Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) catalyst with urea injection. Apart from filtering out even the smallest particles from the flow of exhaust gases, this combination ensures effective reduction of nitric oxides (NOx) by way of a chemical reaction within the exhaust system initiated by the injection of a small dose of urea referred to as Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) into the exhaust stream. The ammonia (NH3) generated within the SCR catalyst subsequently converts the nitric oxides (NO and, respectively, NO2) in the exhaust gas into environmentally benign nitrogen (N2) and water vapor (H2O).
BMW has developed a two-tank system for DEF ensuring convenient use of this new technology with all the benefits and ease required by the customer: The amount of DEF required in each case is drawn from the active tank comprising approximately 1.6 gallons by means of a dosage pump. And since the urea solution would freeze at a temperature of 12.2 degrees F (−11 degrees C), this active tank, as well as the dosage pipes are heated.
Driver Assistance Features, Options, and Accessories.
BMW has made the X5 a hallmark for drivers who wish to personalize their ride with a large selection of optional features available since the original X5 was launched at the turn of the decade. New for 2011 is Active Cruise Control with Stop and a Lane Departure Warning system. Active Steering, running boards, Heads-Up Display, 4-zone automatic climate control, rear seat entertainment system, side-view cameras, top-view camera, Nappa Leather seats, Nappa Leather-covered dashboard and center console, Comfort Access with keyless entry, and Smartphone integration are just a few of the available options.
2011 BMW X5d – From exterior to the interior
Linear Mode
