???‚¬?“The new BMW X5 raises the bar yet again when it comes to Savs, having led the segment since its inception in 1999, the X5 continues to innovate in a rapidly growing market???‚¬ said AA president Fahad Alfardan.

???‚¬?“This new offering builds on an already successful platform, featuring refined exterior and interior design and the ultimate in handling dynamics, all in a truly versatile vehicle,???‚¬ Alfardan said.

Two BMW X5 models are on offer ???‚¬??? the BMW X5 4.8i and the BMW X5 3.0si, featuring 8-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines, respectively.

A renewed 8-cylinder engine on the BMW X5 4.8i outputs a maximum of 355 hp and 350lb of torque between 3,400 and 3,800 rpm.

Acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds means the BMW X5 4.8i sets the standard for the SAV segment, topping out at an electronically limited 240 km/h.

The 6-cylinder BMW X5 3.0si is no slouch either, said AA.

This state-of-the-art engine combines performance and technology to deliver a hugely impressive 272 hp and 232-lb of torque at 2,750rpm, which translates to a 0-100 km/h time of 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h.

???‚¬?“BMW???‚¬?„?s X5 is the first SAV to offer Adaptive Drive, granting the driver unprecedented control on the road by carefully coordinating interaction between the anti-roll bars and dampers???‚¬ said Naim Majdalani, Alfardan Automobiles director (Sales ?“In addition to the xDrive all-wheel drive system, DSC Dynamic Stability Control and a host of safety features ranging from ABS anti-lock brakes to CBC Cornering Brake Control, the BMW X5 is one of the surest vehicles on the road,???‚¬ he said.

A newly-designed interior has been granted more space ???‚¬??? 18.7cms of additional length and 6.8cms of width ???‚¬??? making the new BMW X5 highly versatile, with space for up to seven occupants. Innovative features and a high class interior ensure the driver and passengers are offered both comfort and functionality.

???‚¬?“Innovative technology and premium quality are on offer, combined with elegant design and outstanding driving dynamics, making the BMW X5 the vehicle of choice in the SAV segment???‚¬, said Frank Nadler, BMW Group Middle East area manager.

???‚¬?“A versatile and luxurious vehicle, the BMW X5 promises to continue in the steps of its predecessor, offering an unparalleled driving experience, unmatched quality and superior engineering,???‚¬ he said.

The new BMW X5 is equipped with BMW???‚¬?„?s trendsetting iDrive control concept to mastermind the navigation, air conditioning, entertainment, and communication functions. As an option, information relevant to the driver may also be presented on the head-up display quite unique in the SAV segment.

Mobile entertainment for the BMW X5 is again offered at an even higher standard ???‚¬??? available second row DVD video system, a CD or DVD changer in the glove compartment, as well as the innovative multi-channel audio system are only some of the options on offer.

???‚¬?“The new BMW X5 is sure to be the trendsetter in driving pleasure, offering superior design, handling, and interior space and comfort.

???‚¬?“We are certain the new X5 will continue with the promise of a unique driving experience its predecessor started, and set alight a new era for the SAV segment???‚¬ Nadler said.

He said the Middle East was the first market outside the US where the new BMW X5 had been launched.

???‚¬?“Our previous X5 version had sold in excess of 580,000 units worldwide. We hope to sell more units with the new X5,???‚¬ Nadler said.

The new BMW X5 has been priced QR315,000 upwards.

Source: [url=http://www.gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no=2&item_no=136176&version=1&templ ate_id=48&parent_id=28]Gulf Times[/url]