Topic: First Drive: 2011 BMW X5

[Autos_Editor]

A "mid-cycle refresh," the 2011 X5 receives subtle exterior refinements, important engine upgrades, and a new eight-speed automatic transmission, reports Senior Editor, Paul Williams.  2011 BMW X5 models will go on sale next month.

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[sailor723]

Well, I see BMW is consistant if nothing else.  Only a paltry 28.6% premium over the US price for the privilege of buying one in Canada. (46,650 vs 59,990) 

[BlixemBimmer]

Small error in the article:
"The $59,990 X5 xDrive35i is powered by a single-turbocharged 3.0-litre I6 that makes 300 hp and 300 lb.-ft. torque, which is a 15 and 33 per cent increase respectively over the outgoing twin-turbocharged engine. "

should be
"The $59,990 X5 xDrive35i is powered by a single-turbocharged 3.0-litre I6 that makes 300 hp and 300 lb.-ft. torque, which is a 15 and 33 per cent increase respectively over the outgoing 3.0-litre non-turbocharged engine. "

[JSCC]

Eagerly waiting for the price announcement for the 2011 5 series.  

[ktm525]

Eagerly waiting for the price announcement for the 2011 5 series.  

No wagon.

[JSCC]

Research shows "you" like and "will buy" the 5 GT instead of the wagon. 

[ktm525]

Research shows "you" like and "will buy" the 5 GT instead of the wagon. 

I guess I better put on a clean shirt and head over to BMW to give them a cheque then for my new 5GT. 

[ovr50]

Historical sales numbers for the 5er wagon in NA are terrible. I am not surprised that BMW has dropped it in NA. Wagon still available in 3 Series.

[ktm525]

I don't blame them, just a sad day. The 3 series wagon is more of a elongated hatchback. Backseat room is marginal and the hatch is small. Might as well have a 5 series sedan.

[ovr50]

ktm - the local guys at the BMW store told me last year that Jerome Inginla (sic) of the Flames has a 5er wagon in Deep Sea Blue with the MSport package on it and it is very sharp. Have you ever seen it around Calgary? That would be the previous gen 5 Series now.

In any event, the "refreshed" X5 looks good IMO, a slight improvement over the previous X5. The refreshed one has a bit of the X5M look to it, and that's a good thing in my books. I like the new brown color that is now available as well.

[2JDM]

I am a huge fan of the X5. Good(handling, looks, utility).

Does the turbocharged six use the same HPFP that has been plaguing the 335i?

[ovr50]

I am a huge fan of the X5. Good(handling, looks, utility).

Does the turbocharged six use the same HPFP that has been plaguing the 335i?

No, it is the new "Twin-Scroll" turbo (N55 engine) which is different than the "twin-turbo" N54 engine.

[ktm525]

ktm - the local guys at the BMW store told me last year that Jerome Inginla (sic) of the Flames has a 5er wagon in Deep Sea Blue with the MSport package on it and it is very sharp. Have you ever seen it around Calgary? That would be the previous gen 5 Series now.

In any event, the "refreshed" X5 looks good IMO, a slight improvement over the previous X5. The refreshed one has a bit of the X5M look to it, and that's a good thing in my books. I like the new brown color that is now available as well.

Havn't seen it, Jerome and me must run in different circles. I did see Mr Iginla about 3 years ago picking up his Range Rover Supercharged.. The X5  (diesel 3rd row seat) is my wife's favourite and if the money gods smile on me it may be a replacement for the Lr3 or the Volvo.

[2JDM]

Well, I see BMW is consistant if nothing else.  Only a paltry 28.6% premium over the US price for the privilege of buying one in Canada. (46,650 vs 59,990) 

It is built in the US...does that mean no import duty? 

I am a huge fan of the X5. Good(handling, looks, utility).

Does the turbocharged six use the same HPFP that has been plaguing the 335i?

No, it is the new "Twin-Scroll" turbo (N55 engine) which is different than the "twin-turbo" N54 engine.

Thanks. 

[JSCC]

Historical sales numbers for the 5er wagon in NA are terrible. I am not surprised that BMW has dropped it in NA. Wagon still available in 3 Series.

Not sure that will last for long.
Rumor says the 3 wagon maybe replace by a 3 GT (5 door coupe/hatch combo, think A5 sportback) for North America.

[elcee]

Well, I see BMW is consistant if nothing else.  Only a paltry 28.6% premium over the US price for the privilege of buying one in Canada. (46,650 vs 59,990) 

And it will continue until canadian buyers phone write or email BMW and ask questions.
Along with other brands, they believe that canadian are ready to pay more for just about anything, and they are right. Most of us will keep paying more, about it but never let BMW and others what they think.

 

[OldDoc]

I'm done with BMW X-series. Could never start my 2007 at normal Canadian winter lows (-20 C or colder), even with fully charged battery.
Dealer and service were no help, and head office just blew me off.
No block heater. No heavy duty battery.

Sure it's a nice drive, but if you have to park outside overnight better have a back-up ride or pick-up available.