BMW X5 4.6is - Range Topping New Model Now On Sale In The UK
Published: 28th February 2002
Sporty shifting
The 4.6is features a modified five-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic.
An entirely new programme has been created to accentuate the sporting
character of the vehicle even in the conventional D mode. Switch to S
mode and the driver discovers a new uncompromising sports shift programme
tailored to meet even the most enthusiastic drivers demands.
Outstanding suspension qualities
Racing driver Hans Stuck proved the outstanding capacity of X5 suspension
technology when he lapped the 20.8 km long northern circuit of the Nürburgring
in under eight minutes, hitting a top speed of 193 mph in a special X5
model powered by the BMW Le Mans engine. As with all models in the X5
range the 4.6is benefits from superior suspension technology ensuring
safe motoring even at high speeds. As an additional safety measure the
4.6is is also fitted with BMW's DSC III stability control as standard.
Power under control
Despite the greater emphasis on sports-car performance, the X5 4.6is retains
its off-road qualities. With 40 Nm of extra torque over the 4.4i, this
new model has even greater power reserves when subjected to extreme gradients
or off road conditions.
Like the 3.0i, 3.0d and 4.4i versions, the X5 4.6is also comes with BMW's electronic ABD differential lock integrated in the electronic DSC (Dynamic Stability Control). The same applies to ABS with CBC (Cornering Brake Control), ASC and DBC (Dynamic Brake Control).
For use on hilly terrain, the X5 4.6is features BMW's enhanced HDC (Hill Descent Control) for keeping a constant speed when driving downhill. Previously when in HDC mode the speed was fixed at 6mph. Now, by pressing the plus (+) button on the cruise control feature of the multifunction steering wheel the driver can increase HDC speed to a maximum of 16 mph. Pressing the minus (-) button will reduce the speed to minimum of 4 mph. By using buttons on the steering wheel rather than the pedal the driver has far greater precision which is especially important in rough conditions when the vehicle might be moving heavily from side to side.
Trailer stability Control
Unique to the X5 is a new system that provides far greater safety and
comfort when towing. BMW's trailer stability system recognises via a yaw
rate signal any swerving action and in simple terms brakes the towing
vehicle as well as the trailer itself (through an auxiliary brake system),
returning the vehicle and the trailer to a stable driving condition.
A connection at the rear through the trailer hook up electrical socket
informs the DSC system that the vehicle is towing. This signal activates
the control system, which is programmed to intervene when necessary at
a speed of more than 40 mph. Activation of trailer stability control is
shown by the traction light flashing on and off.
More choice
Two-axle pneumatic suspension with self-levelling has also been introduced
as an option. This system allows the driver to lower the vehicle by 35
mm for loading purposes (access mode) and increase the height of the vehicle
by 25 mm of extra ground clearance (off-road mode.)
As soon as the vehicle exceeds a speed of 20 mph in access mode, the X5 automatically reverts back to the standard mode. The driver can then select the access mode again while driving, the system returns to this mode automatically as soon as the road speed drops below 16 mph. In the off-road mode the X5 can be driven at speeds of up to 31 mph, automatically returning to its original level once that speed limit has been exceeded. Currently only available on non-Sport models, this option will be introduced for all Sport models and the X5 4.6 is from October 2002.
Design
Visual changes to the 4.6 are understated but create an even greater sense
of power and formidable on road presence. With 20 inch specially designed
wheels fitted as standard, running on 275/40 tyres up front and 315/35
tyres at the rear, the 4.6is has had its wheel arches flared to house
them.
Viewed from the front the 4.6is is equally impressive. The front air dam finished in the body colour powerfully accentuates the lower air intake scoops whilst the striking 'wind splitters' on the side of the air dam have been added in the interest of optimum streamlining.
The rear air dam is also finished in body colour continuing the striking look. The two tailpipes are finished in chrome. A choice of four colours is available, two of which are from the BMW Individual Collection underlining the stance of they vehicle. They are Imola red, Estoril blue, Titan silver and Sapphire black.
In addition to the specification levels on the 4.4i Sport the X5 4.6is also features as standard the following:
- 20 inch alloy wheels
- Extended wheel arch trims
- Velour floor mats
- Hi-Fi 10 speaker system
- 6 Disc CD changer
- High gloss black interior trim
- Instrument dials with matt chrome surround
- Rev counter with variable pre-warning field
- Lumbar support for front driver and passenger, electronically adjustable
- New front and rear aerodynamics
- Rear head airbags (ITS)
- Rear side airbags
- Seat heating for driver and front passenger
- Special paintwork options (Imola red, Estoril Blue)
- Spirit-Nappa leather upholstery
- Twin chrome sports rear exhaust tailpipes
- Tyre pressure control system
- Xenon headlights
