M5

The ultimate in sports sedan motoring has got a name: BMW M5. This finest BMW 5-Series vehicle is the most powerful of all time: five liters of cubic capacity, ten cylinders, a maximum output of 507 bhp (DIN), a peak torque of 384 lb-ft and engine speeds redlining at 8,000 rpm, these are figures that speak for themselves. In an unprecedented way, these figures blur the lines between a car for everyday use and a vehicle for ambitious motor sport racing.

A successful recipe for two decades: power without overstatement.

With its performance figures, the fourth-generation BMW M5 once again sets the benchmark in the segment of powerful sports sedans, a niche which the first BMW M5 carved for itself back in 1984. During the last 20 years, this first BMW M5 and all its successors have made their mark, always setting the standard as a perfect symbiosis of a comfortable, elegant sedan for everyday use, abundant output delivered by a powerful engine and ultimate sportiness. With sales figures of approximately 35,000, the BMW M5 has proved to be an economically successful concept which combines prodigious performance with understatement, a basic feature of all M automobiles.

This principle reaches its culmination in the new BMW M5: this "extreme athlete" with its subtle appearance and the seemingly endless power of its ten-cylinder high-revving engine, which interacts perfectly with the seven-speed SMG gearbox, introduces the driver to completely new dimensions of effortlessness. To put it in a nutshell: in its class, which it shares with top-class competitors, the BMW M5 excels due to the most innovative drive concept, the best power-to-weight ratio, supreme handling and excellent everyday driving qualities. It is a fully roadworthy sedan with the heart of an athlete, a sports car which is perfectly suited for everyday motoring. The new M5 skilfully combines these two virtues.

First high-revving V10 engine to be featured in a regular-production sedan.

The V10 is the only high-revving power unit to be featured in a series-production car. Featured in the most powerful production car within the BMW model family, this new engine once again sets the benchmark in its class.

There is, however, more to it than pure performance. What is important for M automobiles is acceleration and driving dynamics, the latter which is dependent on the actual forward thrust and the vehicle's weight. The drive forces at the driven wheels are significantly influenced by the engine torque and the total ratio. The high-revving concept caters for an optimum transmission and rear-axle ratio, thus guaranteeing an impressive forward thrust.

The perfect choice: high-revving concept.

For the BMW M engineers the compact, high-revving normally aspirated engine was the ideal choice. With a red line of 8,250 rpm, the ten-cylinder engine has ventured into terrain which has so far been reserved for red-blooded racing cars. Compared to the previous BMW M5 eight-cylinder engine, performance has increased by more than 25 percent. The BMW M5 has also surpassed the magical 100 bhp per liter limit, its specific output being on par with that of racing cars.

A masterpiece in engine construction.

The two five-cylinder banks of the V10 are arranged at an angle of 90° to achieve a mass balance of the crankshaft drive, which is optimized for low vibration and increased comfort. For reasons of stiffness and due to the high loads resulting from combustion pressure, engine speed and vibrations, a bedplate design has been chosen for the crankcase, the first-ever application in a production V engine by BMW. For an optimum alignment of the crankshaft, grey-cast iron inserts have been integrated into the aluminum bedplate, which also serve to enhance acoustics, increase vibrational comfort and ensure a high oil supply rate. The extremely stiff crankshaft is supported by six bearings.

High-pressure bi-VANOS and individual throttle butterflies.

The bi-VANOS variable valve timing featured in the new BMW M5 engine ensures an optimum charge cycle, thus helping to achieve extremely short adjustment times. This means in practice: increased performance, an improved torque curve, optimum responsiveness, lower consumption and fewer emissions. Each cylinder has its own throttle, a feature typical of racing cars. Throttle control is fully electronic and cylinder bank specific.

Dual exhaust system made of stainless steel.

The exhaust system is made of seamless stainless steel and has a dual-flow design all the way to the silencers. The exhaust gases finally leave the system through four tailpipes which are what make the rear end of the M vehicles so unmistakable. The exhaust system complies with the European EU4 and the US LEV2 emission standards.

The engine control module: the first of its kind in the world.

The MS S65 engine management system is the central factor behind the V10's outstanding performance and emission data. This engine management system is unparalleled in its package density. Its processors are the most powerful ones which are currently approved for use in automobiles, as high engine speeds and comprehensive management and control tasks demand the utmost from this system.

Highlight in engine management: ionic current technology.

The ionic current technology featured by the engine management unit is a technological highlight which serves to detect engine knock, misfiring and combustion misses. Utilizing the spark plug in each cylinder, this system helps to pinpoint engine knock, to check for correct ignition and to detect any ignition misses. Thus, the spark plug has a dual function - as an actuator for the ignition and as a sensor for monitoring the combustion process.

Seven-speed SMG gearbox conveys M power to the tarmac.

The high-revving concept only succeeds in combination with a gearbox which translates the torque available to the engine, by means of a short overall transmission ratio, into optimized forward thrust.

The new seven-speed SMG gearbox is well suited to the V10 engine's power. BMW M is the first manufacturer worldwide to offer a seven-speed sequential gearbox with drivelogic function. The seven-speed SMG gearbox enables manual gear selection with ultra-short shifting times as well as comfortable cruising thanks to automated gear selection. The purpose of the additional seventh gear is to reduce engine speed and torque gaps.

New SMG gearbox's speed up by 20 percent.

With the seven-speed SMG gearbox, gears can be changed using the gearshift lever on the center console or the paddles on the steering wheel. Compared to the previous SMG transmission, changing gears is 20 percent faster with the new generation. Never before has it been quicker to change gears with a transmission of this kind. The advantage for the BMW M5 driver: Gear change is smooth and accomplished at a speed impossible to reach even by the most proficient driver, thus making the inevitable power flow interruptions when changing gears hardly noticeable.

Drivelogic: the driver determines the SMG's characteristics for changing gears.

Thanks to the SMG's drivelogic function, the driver can choose from eleven gear change options, which enable him to adapt the SMG's characteristics to his very own style of motoring.

Six of these programs can be pre-selected in the sequential manual gearbox mode (S mode), the spectrum ranging from balanced dynamic to very sporty. With the gearbox in the S mode, the driver always shifts gears manually. Whenever the driver activates the Launch Control function, the SMG Drivelogic shifts gears shortly before the maximum engine speed is reached at precisely the right moment and with optimum slip until the BMW M5 reaches its top speed.

In the Drive (D mode) automatic gearshift mode, the transmission shifts the seven gears automatically, depending on the program selected, the driving situation, the road speed and the position of the accelerator pedal.

SMG for increased safety and comfort.

The seven-speed SMG gearbox not only supports the driver in achieving motor sports performance, but also offers scores of safety features. In critical situations, when the driver shifts down on a slippery surface, for example, the gearbox opens the clutch in the fraction of a second in order to prevent the BMW M5 from swerving out of control in the event of excessive drag torque at the driven wheels. Further functions are the climbing, which prevents the car from rolling backwards during hill starts as well as the hill detection, which adjusts the shift points on gradients and descents. This prevents gear hunting when going uphill. When driving downhill, the hill detection holds the lower gears for longer in order to make effective use of the engine's braking power.

Maximum driving pleasure.

The interaction of the V10 engine and the seven-speed SMG gearbox results in a level of performance, which has so far been inconceivable for series-production sedans. Above all, there is one thing the BMW M5 gives to its driver: driving pleasure at its best. Compared to the previous BMW M5, the current model comes up trumps in all performance and fun disciplines: it accomplishes the 0 to 62 mph sprint in 4.7 seconds and reaches the 200 km/h (124 mph) mark after a mere 15 seconds to go on to the electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). A glance at the speedometer reveals where this power package would head for if maximum speed was not electronically limited: an awe-inspiring 330 km/h (205 mph).

The Nürburgring serves as a test track.

Compared to all direct competitors, the interaction of actual forward thrust and a low vehicle weight is a strong argument in favour of the new M5. Also in this respect, the BMW M5 sets the benchmark and leaves its competitors far behind.

An undisputed gauge of driving dynamics is the northern loop of the legendary Nürburgring race track. For decades, the world's most demanding race track has been the perfect place of separating the wheat from the chaff. There is no other place where the interaction of vehicle components when taken to the limits can be observed as well as on the Nürburgring's northern loop. With lap times of approximately eight minutes, the BMW M5 can hold its own and is a worthy competitor of thoroughbred sports cars, leaving its competitors far behind. By the way: traditionally, all M vehicles are tested there.

M suspension based on the 5-Series: the icing on the cake.

The aforementioned lap time demonstrates that the BMW M5 can be extremely sporty. Although the suspension of the basic 5-Series model is undoubtedly very good, such a record performance with respect to dynamics would not be possible. This is why the BMW M5 is also totally unique with regard to its suspension.

Many detail solutions and changes turn the 5-Series into an BMW M5.

Consequently, the suspension and its electronic assistants have been either exclusively developed for the new BMW M5, undergone extensive modifications or adapted to the special M performance. For example, the BMW M5's running gear is by no means a lowered 5-Series suspension. Instead, it is an optimized design created from scratch. The suspension assisting systems, some of which have the same name as those of the 5-Series, have been optimized for this vehicle. On the one hand, this suspension contributes greatly to the BMW M5 being the technological culmination of the successful BMW 5-Series. On the other hand, it clearly demonstrates that the BMW M5 is a unique model with a distinctive appearance.

Variable M differential lock.

The BMW M5 has a variable, torque-sensing differential lock bestowing the vehicle with a high level of driving stability and optimum traction, above all when accelerating out of bends. Even in extremely demanding driving situations, i.e. when there are major differences in the coefficients of friction at the driven wheels, it offers a decisive advantage in terms of traction. A further advantage is that it instantly builds up an increasing locking power if the speed difference between the driven wheels rises, thus guaranteeing optimum forward progress at all times.

Only featured in the BMW M5: DSC with two selectable driving dynamics programs.

A new generation of the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) has been especially developed for the BMW M5. The DSC system can be deactivated by pressing a button on the selector lever cover. The driving dynamics programs are pre-selected in the so-called MDrive and can be called up using the MDrive button on the steering wheel. While the first DSC mode by and large corresponds to that of the 5-Series, the second mode - the M Dynamic Mode - is highly appreciated by sports-minded drivers.

EDC: the spectrum ranges from sportingly firm to comfortable.

The BMW M5's Electronic Damper Control (EDC) enables the driver to choose from three programs (comfort, normal and sport), thereby adjusting the suspension characteristics accordingly. The driver can operate the EDC function via the MDrive button on the steering wheel or the push button next to the SMG selector lever.

High-performance brakes derived from motor sport.

To complement its immense power output, the BMW M5 is equipped with a generously sized high-performance braking system with perforated, weight-optimized compound brake discs. The aluminum twin-piston sliding calipers (analogous to the BMW 7 Series), which have been optimized for minimum weight and maximum stiffness, help the BMW M5 to achieve stopping distances similar to those of red-blooded sports cars: deceleration from 62 mph to 0 is accomplished in under 36 meters, the braking distance from 124 mph to a standstill is less than 140 meters.

The high-performance business express.

A wolf in sheep's clothing - this description would fit if the basic 5-Series, and particularly the new M5, looked "tame" when viewed from outside. In fact, the 5-Series already looks sporty, elegant and athletic. It is no coincidence that this 5-Series represents BMW's dynamic business class. The BMW M5 is set apart from the basic model by a host of striking and hidden details, which further add to its powerful, sporty and dynamic looks. An athlete in business attire would be an apt description of the new BMW M5.

Exterior with understatement.

The differences in design versus the basic 5-Series are discreet but consistent, giving the BMW M5 a surprisingly high level of uniqueness in terms of looks, without questioning the common genes with the BMW model series. The modified front and rear aprons are instant eye catchers. Another difference is the modified side sills and the more prominent wheel arches. Traditionally, the M differs from the "normal" BMW in its exclusive exterior mirror design, the four tailpipes, which have also become an unmistakable feature of all M vehicles, and the exclusive wheel design. For the first time, the BMW M5 sports very attractive gills which are incorporated into the front side panel.

An even sportier interior.

The BMW M5 comes with a leather interior in three different colors, which makes it look even more sophisticated than the lavishly equipped basic model or - for an extra price - with a full leather interior, which looks absolutely stunning. Further important differences versus the 5-Series are the instrument cluster, the optional M-specific head-up display, the steering wheel with MDrive buttons and the redesigned center console.

Business express for everyday use.

All vehicles made by BMW M GmbH are very convenient for everyday motoring. This particularly applies to the BMW M5: despite its awe-inspiring performance which is reminiscent of that of a racing car, it has remained an elegant and comfortable sedan perfectly suitable for longer journeys, an integral characteristic of BMW 5-Series cars. Thus, one can say that the BMW M5's racing ambitions neither impair driving comfort, active and passive safety, nor do they reduce the space available for passengers and luggage. Even in terms of consumption and environmental compatibility, the BMW M5 is a real paragon - just like all BMW automobiles.

Technical Specifications

* Body
o No. of doors: 4
o No. of seats: 5
o Length: 4,855 mm
o Width: 1,846 mm
o Height: 1,469 mm
o Wheelbase: 2,889 mm
o Track
+ Front: 1,580 mm
+ Rear: 1,566 mm
o Turning circle: 12,4 m
o Fuel tank capacity: 70 l
o Weight, unladen (EU1): 1,830 kg
o Max. load (DIN): 545 kg
o Max. permissible weight (DIN): 2,300 kg
o Luggage comp. capacity: 500 l
* Engine
o Type: V10
o Engine management: MS S65
o Displacement: 4,999 cc
o Bore: 92,0 mm
o Stroke: 75,2 mm
o Compression ratio: 12,0:1
o Fuel grade: 98 (RON)
o Max. power: 507 bhp (373 kW) @ 7,750 rpm
o Torque: 520 Nm @ 6,100 rpm
* Chassis
o Front suspension: Double-joint tension rod spring-strut suspension with displaced camber; small positive steering scrub radius; traverse force compensation; anti-dive
o Rear suspension: Integral axle (aluminum), wheel suspension with special effect anti-squat/anti-dive
o Brakes
+ Front: Double-piston floating-caliper Compound disc brakes; 374 x 36 mm, vented and punched
+ Rear: Single-piston floating-caliper Compound disc brakes; 370 x 24 mm, vented and punched
o Driving Stability Systems: ABS, CBC, DSC, variable M differencial lock
o Steering: rack-and-pinion steering, hydraulically assisted steering and Servotronic
o Type of transmission: SMG III
o Final drive ratio: 3.620:1
o Tires
+ Front: 255/40 ZR 19
+ Rear: 285/35 ZR 19
o Wheels
+ Front: 8,5 J x 19 EH 2 IS 12 Alloy
+ Rear: 9,5 J x 19 EH 2 IS 28 Alloy
* Performance
o Power to weight ratio (DIN): 4.7 kg/kW
o Output per liter: 74.6 kW/l
o Acceleration
+ 0-100km/h (0-62 mph): 4.7 s
+ 0-1000 m: 22.7 s
o Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph) [electronically limited]
o Fuel consumption (EU cycle)
+ In town: 22.7 l/100 km
+ Out of town: 10.2 l/100 km
+ Overall: 14.8 l/100 km
o CO2: 357 g/km
o Emission classification: EU4

BMW 6-Series E63E64

In 1989 the 6 Series was supplanted by the 8 Series, but in late 2003, the 6 Series was reintroduced as a 2004 model, with coupe and convertible versions based on the BMW E63 and BMW E64 platforms, respectively. These two models are each available with either a 3.0 L (2996 cc) straight-6 making 190 kW (258 hp DIN) at 6600 RPM and 300 Nm (221.3 ft.lbf) of torque from 2500–4000 RPM (in the 630i) or a 4.4 L (4398 cc) V8 making 245 kW (333 hp DIN) and 450 Nm (331.9 ft.lbf) of torque at 3600 RPM (in the 645Ci). In some markets, the convertible versions are sold as the 630i Cabriolet and the 645Ci Cabriolet.

The V8 in the 645Ci is the N62 engine, the same powerplant used in the 545i and 745i, with BMW's Valvetronic variable valve timing system. This is an all aluminum engine with 4 valves per cylinder. This 6-Series comes with either a 6 speed automatic transmission or a 6 speed SMG sequential gear box. For the 2006 model year, BMW renamed the 645Ci as the 650i. The reason for this change was the increase in engine displacement.

Unlike that of the new 5 Series and 7 Series models, the styling of the new 6 Series has generally received a warm welcome from the BMW community—except, largely, owners and enthusiasts of the E24. The new 6 Series was designed to look like a shark, and really does remind you of one. The controversial "Bangle-butt" rear styling works somewhat better on the shapely E63 than on other BMWs.

In 2005, an M6 version of the new 6 Series was introduced. It shares the E60 BMW M5's engine and transmission (507 bhp)

BMW 530Li

The perfect combination of driving dynamics and motoring comfort is now available in truly impressive style: Focusing exclusively on the Chinese market, German premium carmaker BMW has developed three brand-new models. The BMW 530Li, BMW 525Li and BMW 523Li offer outstanding performance combined with the supreme interior comfort of a particularly luxurious Business Saloon, extending the line-up of BMW 5-Series models already highly successful in China. The most conspicuous exterior feature versus the models already established in the market is the increase in wheelbase by 140 millimetres or 5.5 inches.

In particular, this extra space benefits the passengers on the rear seats, where grand touring comfort in the BMW 5-Series now reaches a level never seen before. A further enhancement is the rear console with its integrated entertainment system developed especially for the BMW 530Li and BMW 525Li. Introducing the new BMW 530Li, BMW 525Li and BMW 523Li built at the Shenyang Plant in the Province of Liaoning, German carmaker BMW is once again emphasising its clear orientation towards the Chinese car market with its particular demands and requirements.

Driving dynamics typical of BMW with new style and calibre.

The new BMW 530Li, BMW 525Li and BMW 523Li meet all expectations in terms of driving dynamics. Transmission of power to the rear axle, perfect axle load distribution, the modern aluminium suspension, and weight-optimised construction give the long versions of the BMW 5-Series a standard of agility exceptional in their class. The new models are driven by straight-six power units representing the state-of-the-art in BMW engine development. The 3.0-litre in the BMW 530Li develops maximum output of 190 kW/258 hp. Displacing 2.5 litres in each case, the BMW 525Li offers maximum output of 160 kW/218 hp while the BMW 523 Li develops 130 kW/177 hp.

Developed in Munich, built in Shenyang.

The new BMW 530Li, BMW 525Li and BMW 523Li are an ongoing development of the BMW 5-Series that take the special requirements and demands of the Chinese car market into account. In particular, they offer an even more prestigious look on the road combined with exceptional comfort and space on the rear seats. And at the same time, the new models come with all the key qualities of a BMW 5-Series in terms of driving dynamics and agility, without making the slightest compromise. Offering a convincing combination of these features was indeed the most important objective in the development process handled by BMW engineers in Germany: All the know-how of BMW's specialists in body construction, chassis engineering, design, drivetrain technology, safety and assistance systems has gone into the new models at BMW's Research and Development Centre in Munich.

This has served to create cars tailored in their overall concept to the requirements of the Chinese market and at the same time maintaining all the unique standards of German premium carmaker BMW. Reflecting the philosophy that "production follows the market", the new models are built by specialists at the Shenyang Plant who benefit from direct contact with the sales market. A further point is that Shenyang applies all the processes and quality and safety standards applicable to BMW production facilities the world over - standards that are extremely strict and demanding.

Design: sporting and elegant all in one.

Despite the significant increase in interior space, the new long-wheelbase models naturally retain their sporting and elegant look. Hence, the BMW 530Li, BMW 525Li and BMW 523Li stand out clearly and unmistakably as leading representatives of their brand. The increase in format ensured by the longer wheelbase, which is up by 140 millimetres or 5.5 inches, is visible only from the side, retaining the unique, dynamic and elegant lines of the BMW 5-Series that are just as harmonious as before the car's discreetly modified proportions.

The most striking feature at the front is the large dual headlamps wrapped far around into the sides of the car. A further sign of distinction characterising the muscular look of the BMW 5-Series is the BMW kidney grille so typical of the brand. Horizontal lines at the rear, in turn, give the car a powerful and broad stance on the road, emphasising its stable and sporting qualities. And last but certainly not least, the rear lamp clusters likewise stretch far into the sides.

Exclusive interior.

The interior is dominated by smooth and flowing lines with the instruments, displays and controls for particularly important driving functions situated in a perfectly ergonomic arrangement around the steering wheel.

The BMW 530Li, BMW 525Li and BMW 523Li come as standard with a multifunction steering wheel. High-quality Dakota leather on the seats and door linings, in turn, ensures a stylish and sophisticated ambience, while decorative trim in "titanium dark" or wood on the dashboard and centre console again highlights the sophisticated character of the car. A significant increase in legroom ensures exceptional riding comfort on the rear seats of the long-wheelbase BMW 5-Series. This comfort is further enhanced by the electrically operated glass sliding roof featured as standard on the new models. Further standard features are sun visors on the rear side windows as well as a sunblind in the rear window, protecting the passengers from excessively bright sunlight.

Muscle, efficiency, and refinement: the straight-six power units.

The BMW 530Li, BMW 525Li and BMW 523Li all feature modern straight-six power units. Displacing 3.0 and 2.5 litres respectively, these engines stand out through superior power and performance, a high standard of efficiency, and superior motoring refinement. The innovative, composite magnesium-aluminium crankcase gives the new six-cylinders a further reduction in weight, benefiting both overall economy and the car's agility. Further outstanding features of the new power units are fully variable VALVETRONIC valve management and variable double-VANOS camshaft control. As a result of this superior technology, the new 3.0-litre offers an increase in output over its predecessor by no less than 12 per cent while running on 12 per cent less fuel.

The pinnacle in the engine range is the 3.0-litre in the BMW 530Li, developing maximum output of 190 kW/258 hp and peak torque of 300 Nm/221 lb ft. This enables the BMW 530Li to accelerate to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 km/h or 155 mph. The 2.5-litre power unit in the BMW 525Li, in turn, develops maximum output of 160 kW/218 hp and peak torque of 250 Nm or 184 lb ft, accelerating the car to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds and providing a top speed of 242 km/h or 150 mph. Again displacing 2.5 litres, the power unit in the BMW 523Li offers maximum output of 130 kW/177 hp with acceleration to 100 km/h in 9.6 seconds and top speed of 227 km/h or 141 mph. All versions of the long-wheelbase BMW 5-Series Saloon come as standard with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Modern suspension for superior agility and supreme handling.

The exceptional driving sensation in the long-wheelbase BMW 5-Series Saloon is largely attributable to the very smooth and consistent distribution of axle load. Harmonious weight distribution of almost 50 : 50 front-to-rear is crucial to the car's driving behaviour. This balance is ensured by light engines, the weight-optimised front axle, and the all-aluminium suspension carried over from the BMW 7-Series Saloon, all providing an ideal match for rear-wheel drive so typical of BMW.

The dynamic driving character of the new models is further enhanced by extremely precise hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering including Servotronic. This elaborate system controls the degree of steering assistance as a function of road speed, enhancing both motoring comfort and driving safety in the process. Extra-large 16-inch swing calliper brakes on all four wheels with inner-vented brake discs ensure superior stopping power and excellent resistance to fading. And a continuous, ongoing wear indicator provides information at all times on the current condition of the brake pads.

Equipment: versatile and exclusive.

Offering high-class materials and a wide range of new functions, the passenger compartment in the new BMW 530Li, BMW 525Li and BMW 523Li ensures a supreme standard of sophisticated comfort reflecting the modern demands made of an exclusive premium car in both the world of business and in private life. Particularly the new rear console with its integrated entertainment system emphasises the stylish feeling of prestigious motoring at the rear in the BMW 530Li and BMW 525Li, enhancing passenger comfort to an even higher level of perfection.

The seats are finished in sophisticated Dakota leather. The front seats come as standard with electrical adjustment and boast an integrated memory function, with electric seat heating coming as yet another important feature in the BMW 530Li and BMW 525Li. And last but certainly not least, rear seat heating is also standard in the BMW 530Li and BMW 525Li for even greater comfort at all times.

Unique comfort at the rear.

The most striking feature within the new BMW 530Li and BMW 525Li is the rear console with its integrated entertainment system and an air vent for individual fresh air control. Apart from the BMW radio Professional, a CD player is also integrated as standard in the rear console.

Motoring comfort at the rear is enhanced in the BMW 530Li and BMW 525Li by a DVD player. A further feature in these models is the eight-inch screens integrated in a console in the back of the front seats, while the passenger sitting on the right-hand rear seat is even able to enjoy a folding table coming out of the seat in front. Moreover, the BMW 530Li is equipped with a TV set. Last but certainly not least, the position of the front passenger's seat may be controlled from the right-hand seat at the rear by an additional switch at the back of the seat. This serves to further increase legroom at the rear and optimise the use and control of the table folding out of the front seat.

BMW X5 E53

The BMW X5 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV sold by BMW since 2000. It is based on the E39 5 Series and features all wheel drive and a line of straight-6 and V8 engines. For non-US models there is a 3.0 L diesel engine.

The history of the X5 begins in the late 1990s, when Chris Bangle drew the first sketches from his Designworks studio in California. In many ways, the current car closely resembles these initial sketches.

The takeover of Rover proved to be very beneficial for BMW in the development of the X5. BMW engineers were able to look and use Range Rover technology and parts in the development of the X5-one such example would be hill descent control. In many respects the X5 was also influenced designwise by its British counterpart; in this case the X5 got the two-piece tailgate straight from the Range Rover. Many parts and electronics were also taken directly from the E39 5 series parts bin to save costs.

In contrast to the Range Rover models, however, the X5 was designed as a sporting car. BMW reportedly worked hard to ensure it was referred to as an SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) instead of an SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle).

Even though the X5 was a four wheel drive vehicle, BMW chose from the start to route 60% of the engine's torque to the rear wheels, making it feel as close as possible to the company's rear-wheel drive sedans. Many reviewers commented on its road and track "feeling", and as time passed many other manufactures have caught onto this breed of SUV (e.g. Porsche Cayenne).

The X5 has been criticized for having low interior volume for its size - both the smaller BMW X3 and the 5 Series (Touring) have greater interior volume. The next generation X5 is rumored to rectify this problem.

The X5, along with the BMW Z4 roadster, are currently manufactured exclusively in BMW's South Carolina plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

2004 refresh

For 2004 the X5 was refreshed with new headlights, a few new exterior colors, a new four-wheel drive system and upgraded engines. The exterior touches kept it fresh and gave the X5 a more aggressive look. The grilles were enlarged, as well as their actual slats being modified in a 'flame surfaced' style. In keeping with the E39 refresh of 2001, the 2004 X5's headlights got "angel-eyes" (rings or halos around all front headlamps). The taillights also got an E39-style refresh treatment and the exterior glass went from a "dotted" pattern to a cleaner one of "lines". BMW invented a new four-wheel drive system dubbed xDrive shared both in the X5 and X3 in 2004. Instead of using the previous X5 system which consisted of power being split 60-40 (rear wheels-front wheels) and DSC to brake wheels losing traction, xDrive could variably cut off power to the front or rear axles in a matter of milliseconds, while transferring 100% of the engine power to either, thus allowing the vehicle to regain traction quickly.

In terms of engines, the X5 got the new 4.4i engine which debuted in the 2002 7-Series. This raised output from 290 to 325 hp (242 kW). Also from April production, a new X5 4.8is was offered (see below), giving the driver 265 kW (355 hp) and making it the 2nd fastest SUV behind the Porsche Cayenne Turbo.

Several new extras were added to the 2004 X5 such as:
+ Soft-boot close feature (the top part of the trunk pulls itself closed)
+ Trailer Stabilization Control
+ Adaptive Headlights (available only with xenon HID headlamps; these swivel with the direction of travel of the car)

Originally announced in the end of 2003 along with the rest of the X5 refresh, the X5 4.8is first started shipping in April 2004. In had a new larger 4.8 L engine (which replaced the 4.6 L engine), and was also later used in the 2005 750i/Li. It also included a slightly modified bodykit (parts of the bottom bumper became painted the body color), 20" wheels, and along with the 4.6is, were the only X5's ever to have a large chrome-tipped exhaust which hid the quad pipes.