BMW has announced new engine for the 2008 line-up models. New updates will be also applied to the X5 SUV, which will be powered by the world’s most powerful production six-cylinder diesel engine.
The X5 3.0sd has now an output of 286hp and a flat torque curve with a peak of 580Nm from a lowly 1,750rpm to ensure rapid performance. The X5 3.0sd is capable of accelerating from zero to 62mph in 7.0 seconds before going on to a top speed of 146mph.
Power in the X5 3.0sd is transmitted to the road via a standard six-speed automatic gearbox and BMW’s renowned xDrive four-wheel drive system. Complementing xDrive technology is the use of Dynamic Stability Control+ including Dynamic Traction Control. DSC+ is the most advanced stability control system currently available on a production car and comes with four additional features above and beyond the original DSC system. DSC+ adds Hill-start assistant, Brake pre-tensioning, Brake fade compensation and Brake drying. Dynamic Traction Control, when engaged, allows for a degree of wheel slip to permit forward motion on slippery surfaces such as ice and snow. It also allows the keener driver to revel in the handling characteristics of the X5 without the DSC+ interrupting the flow unless the situation becomes critical.
580Nm equates to 428lb ft of torque. A RAV4 does 0-60 in 6.3 (Source:Car and Driver).
So what does this lump weigh? More importantly, where does it figure in a price/consumption ratio.
Add in the i-drive and methinks you have an elephantine mass painted white.