If there are two things the Germans really know how to do when it comes to building cars, it is to make them über-fast and totally efficient. Both traits are on display in the restyled and revised 2011 BMW X5 full-size SUV.
The 2011 X5 comes in various trim levels and packages that offer everything to everyone—including standard all-wheel drive, or as BMW refers to it: xDrive. The base xDrive35i utilizes a new 300-horsepower, turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with 300 pounds-feet of torque which pumps out a 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds. If that isn’t enough power, the xDrive50i boasts a 400-horsepower, twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 with 450 pounds-feet of torque, and reaches 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both the xDrive35i and xDrive50i are mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2011 X5 also features a 265-horsepower, twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine, which is mated to a six-speed automatic in the xDrive35d.
In an effort to increase fuel-efficiency, BMW has employed a new Brake Energy Regeneration system on the 2011 X5, which recharges the battery during braking or coasting and is expected to save one to two percent on fuel consumption. That raises the fuel estimates for the X5 to 14-19 mpg in the city and 20-26 mpg on the highway. The aforementioned power and efficiency stacks up nicely against the Mercedes-Benz M- and G-Class, Acura MDX and Audi Q7.
Although the 2011 X5 has more than 4,000 new parts compared to the 2010 model, changes to the exterior and overall appearance are fairly subtle. Most of the changes appear on the rear fascia with a reshaped lower bumper, revised tailpipes, and a second row of LED back lights. The X5 sits on 18-inch alloy wheels with 19-inch wheels as optional equipment.
On the inside, the 2011 BMW X5 seating for five is standard, while an optional third-row brings overall capacity to seven occupants. The second and third rows fold forward to accommodate additional cargo, and you can opt for heated front and second-row seats, a panoramic moonroof, iPod/USB adaptor and power tailgate among many other features. The available iDrive system has been updated and revamped with more shortcut keys, better graphics and improved menu functionality. For an enhanced driving experience the AdaptDrive electronically controlled suspension system designed to improve vehicle cornering is available on the xDrive35i Sport Activity trim.
The 2011 BMW X5 is equipped with the latest in modern safety technologies, including all-disc antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, side curtain airbags for the first and second rows, front side-impact airbags and curtain airbags for the optional third-row. Park Distance Control, automatic high beams, rearview camera with Top View and BMW Assist (which connects you with roadside assistance) are optional.
With a winning combination of luxury, cargo and passenger capacity, and off-road capability, the 2011 BMW X5 stands alone in its segment and raises the bar for the competition.
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