It's the same engine, but de-tuned. Don't ask me why cause I do not know.

But mind that new V8 engines are in development and will hit markats with X6 & new 7er in 2008. Then X5 E70 will get a new more powerful V8 too.

Regarding: iDrive & xDrive updates - it's not such a big deal. I thought new Dynamic xDrive will be offered in E70 - since it was tested in the E70 prototypes - but it seems they are going to debut it in X6 in early 2008. IDrive updates are really minor - the biggest thing are programmable shortcut radio buttons which can also activate pre-set naigation destination and phone numbers.

Regarding engines: yes, more will come. Especially diesels. And of course top-end performance model.

Regarding that info on X5world: yes, its from dealer's bulletin.

Well, MB also uses (and has used) de-tuned engines in the ML. For example the ML420 CDI has "only" 306 hp and 700 Nm but in the E-Class and S-Class the same engine has 314 hp and 730 Nm. I remember that last generation M-Class also had a couple of "de-tuned" engines. The E53 X5 has 4.4i which is the same engine that was used in the 545i, 645i and 745i. In 5-, 6- and 7-series it had 333 hp and 450 Nm but in the X5 there's "only" 320 hp and 440 Nm. So it's not a new thing really.

It might be the same reason that Land Rover engines are weaker than the equivalent Jaguar engines: the engine and lubrication system has to be able to work at crazy angles off-road, modifying the engine loses power.

Any word on the engine and output of the top model?

well may it be a new thing or old.. i dont understand why BMW and MB does it..these cars are expensive..and they are heavy..they should have the top of the range engine.. imo

I read 5.4is, no power numbers though.
Less than 450 hp would be bad imo.

IMO its got to be at least 400BHP to keep up with the Cayenne. It probably needs less power than the Cayenne as it is most definately lighter, without the low range gearbox and locking diffs. If the turbo has 450BHP than an X5 with similiar power and torque numbers will probably be quicker. However I expect something like 425BHP so performance around the standard turbo is to be expected.



BTW this shot is awesome!! Love the rear as well now!

That is a very nice shot.

There's a turbo V8 in development, so I think it only makes sense to wait for that engine, rather than implement the older V8's. This is only my guess though

Here's another take. Most people on this forum believe that the E39 was one of the best BMW's made. When the E60 came, people didn't like the looks because it went too far from what was the perfect car. Even now, many will admit that the E39 is better looking than the E60. To me, the X5 was just like the E39. It looks just right. So now that they do an evolutionary design rather than a revolutionary design (E39 --> E60), people call them too conservative.

To me this new X5 is just right. From every angle, the car is muscular, but in a way more compact looking than let's say the Q7, which is something I really appreciate in an SUV.

I hope to see the new V8 Turbo engine in X5 in the future.

Same here..and something like previous Le Mans concept with V12 .Man,it would wiped the flor with Brabus ML and co.

Does it have the navigation with real time traffic? like the new 335i coupe.