The all-new X5’s feature a new suspension system using a unique double wishbone arrangement at the front and an integral-IV rear axle.

The X5’s AdaptiveDrive anti-roll suspension option also debuts the new FlexRay high-speed data transmission system, which offers the highest level of data transfer capacity and speed yet seen between the individual suspension control systems.

The BMW X5’s xDrive permanent all-wheel drive system, which operates under normal circumstances with a 40-60 front-rear drive split, has been refined to assist stability on the road while affording traction in off-road situations.

Aided by ABS anti-lock brakes, ASC Automatic Stability Control, HDC Hill Descent Control, DBC Dynamic Brake Control, CBC Cornering Brake Control and the ADB Automatic Differential Brake, the all-new X5 aims at being composed and controllable in any circumstance.

Embracing these functions, the new X5’s Dynamic Stability Control System (DSC) also includes automatic brake-power increase to offset high-temperature brake fade, as well as the ability to increase brake pressure moderately when appropriate to keep the system on standby for emergency deceleration.

The braking system also features the BMW Dry Braking Function to maximise efficiency in wet conditions, Start-Off Assistant to prevent rolling back when starting off on an uphill gradient, as well as a push-button operated combined electromechanical/hydraulic parking brake.

The DSC system also includes push-button-operated DTC Dynamic Traction Control that alters the level at which it begins to intervene to allow a certain amount of slip when starting off on sand or snow.

Practicality in the new X5 comes via a body that, through increases in length and width, offers more passenger and luggage space while also enabling it to be specified with a third row of seats giving a seven-passenger capacity.

And the luggage capacity measures from 620 litres in five-seat mode, to as much as 1,750 litres when just the front seats are being utilised.

The new X5’s weight-optimised body shell is virtually no heavier, yet boasts a 15 per cent increase in torsional stiffness.

An enhanced iDrive control system enables fast, intuitive operation, with eight “favourite” buttons allowing direct selection of navigation destinations, telephone numbers and audio sources among others.

The interior’s space and luxurious ambience convey a distinctive feel enhanced by options such as multi-channel audio systems, DVD video and a reversing camera.

The all-new X5’s engine line-up is notable for increased power outputs.

The 3.0si’s aluminium-magnesium inline six cylinder petrol engine ups power by 18 per cent to 200 kW, while torque is increased 5 per cent to 315 Nm. In the 4.8-litre V8, power is up by 11 per cent to 261 kW, and has 8 per cent more torque at 475 Nm.

The new X5’s 3.0-litre inline all-aluminium six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine now has 7 per cent more power at 160 kW, while the maximum torque of 500 Nm is up 4 per cent and is produced between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm.

Average fuel consumption figures show gains across the board, with the 3.0si 9 per cent better at 11.7 litres/100 km, the 4.8i V8 5 per cent more economical at 12.5 litres/100 km and the 3.0d turbo-diesel returning 8.7 litres/100 km, which is an improvement of 7 per cent.

Acceleration figures have improved accordingly, with the 3.0si reaching 100 km/h from a standstill in 8.1 seconds, the 4.8i in 6.5 seconds and the 3.0d in 8.6 seconds.

All BMW X5 models utilise a new six-speed automatic transmission using new torque converter technology and software to reduce reaction and gearshift times by as much as 50 per cent.

The new transmission is operated by an electronic gear selector incorporating a push-button parking-brake selector.

Australian X5 sales since its introduction in 2001 have reached approximately 15,900.

The new BMW X5 faces strong competition from some outstanding products, such as the new Audi Q7, the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the trendy Range Rover Sport and the over achieving Volkswagen Touareg.

Pricing: