The New BMW X5
Published: 22nd November 2003
BMW X5
Spartanburg plant
The BMW X5 is built exclusively at BMW's production facility in Spartanburg, South Carolina, a plant which holds the record for the fastest production start-up in automotive history. Since opening in 1999, more than half a million cars have left the production line, initially 3 Series, then Z3 and X5s and more recently Z4 models.
Following an initial investment of $2.1bn, Spartanburg now employs more than 4,700 people in a site of 1,039 acres. It is the most automated plant in the world, using high-tech 'just-in-time' production techniques, and more than 100 robots involved in welding, transportation and quality assurance.
Components, which arrive from local suppliers, are used as and when they are needed. BMW Associates work in teams, accompanying the car through the production process, undertaking several operations before the car moves to a new team.
Award winner
Accolades for the X5 abound but perhaps the most telling comes from What Car? in its November 2003 edition. Describing the most popular model in the X5 range, the 3.0d, What Car? commented, "If you want to buy a new BMW X5 diesel, you'll have to wait until January 2004. All of the current models are sold out - a testament to the enduring popularity of the talented 4x4. It's still the best-driving 4x4 by some margin, and offers an interior and driving environment to shame many executive saloons."
This is the latest in a line of awards including best 4x4 in the What Car? Car of the Year Awards in February 2001. Top Gear magazine was equally impressed with the new model following its launch also awarding it the accolade of best 4x4.
In July 2001 Auto Express voted the X5 top of its 4x4 recreational vehicle category and recently in the Fleet Excellence Awards 2003, the X5 headed the list for large 4x4 vehicles. All these on top of this year's Which? car buyers survey that gave the car the ultimate thumbs up - from its owners.
BMW X5
Our BMW X5 Guide lists the full specification of the current UK X5 range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £40,200 - £54,065
Body Style:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 8
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 6th July 2008
