km : Automotive News

Over the weekend BMW released information about the 2011 X5 range, which will debut at the New York Auto Show in April of this year and go to market shortly afterward. As is usual with BMW's mid-cycle updates, the bumpers and lights have been edited slightly, but the real news is under the updated hood. BMW has done away with the naturally aspirated inline-6 and V8 in favor of turbocharged variants, leaving the X5 as a fully turbocharged lineup.

Three X5 models will be offered in North America for the 2011 model year. The entry-level X5 is christened X5 xDrive35i, and it will be powered by the new single-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, designated N55, that makes 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft. The X5 xDrive50i gets the corporate 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 making 400 horses and 450 lb-ft. Finally, the 3.0-liter, twin-turbo, six-cylinder diesel-powered X5 xDrive35d soldiers on for 2011.



In addition to the new engine lineup, the gas-powered versions also get a new eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the outgoing six-speed. Steptronic manual shifting is still part of the autobox, and there is an option for steering wheel-mounted shift paddles as well.

Visually, the 2011 X5 gets new front and rear bumpers with more painted surfaces than past models. The front bumper includes an integrated skidplate for a more serious off-road look (even though we know better), and the rear bumper features pass-through exhaust pipes. The hood has been restyled to bring it line with the rest of the current BMW range, with surfacing that draws rearward fromt he roundel. The headlights and foglights have been brought up and in for a more focused look, and the headlamps now feature LED corona rings.



The X5 xDrive35i will be available as a stand-alone model or as one of two special models pre-packaged with popular options. The Sport Activity model gets black-out window trim, sport seats, anthracite headliner and 20-inch wheels, while the Premium upgraded Nevada leather, panoramic sunroof, roof rails, privacy glass, power-adjustable steering column, iPod/USB connection and 19-inch wheels. On top of the standard equipment, each model also features special packages that can be added optionally.

Pricing for the 2011 X5 xDrive35i starts at $46,675 including destination, undercutting the outgoing xDrive30i model by $1800. The Premium model starts at $52,475, while the Sport Activity model goes from $54,975. The xDrive50i model tips in at $59,275, a full $2100 more than the 2010 4.8i model. BMW has held the list price of the 2011 X5 xDrive35d to its 2010 price of $52, 175.

For more details, read the full press release at our BMW enthusiast site, www.mwerks.com.

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