New Cars Company: BMW X5

BMW Adds Three-Seat Rear Bench Option for the X6 and New Equipment Goodies for X5

Starting from April 2011, BMW X6 customers will be able to specify the crossover model with a three-seat rear bench. Up until now, the X6 was offered exclusively with a four-seat layout. The extra accommodation is available for all X6 models with the exception of the X6 ActiveHybrid, and can also be ordered for the X6 M. Besides the third seat that replaces the previous storage unit between the two rear passengers, the five-seat model also gets new leather options.

BMW also announced that the new batch of X6 models will feature shift paddles on the steering wheel whose operating logic follows the principle familiar from the M cars: for manual shifting of the eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, the right paddle is used for upshifts and the left for downshifts.

Furthermore, both the BMW X5 and X6 can be ordered with new Y-spoke design 20-inch alloy wheels shod in 275/40 and 315/35 front and rear tires respectively, plus a Comfort Access system that illuminates the car’s surroundings, and an updated range of ConnectedDrive services. The latter includes the BMW Apps option, which means that iPhone users will be able to access Facebook, Twitter and international radio stations, regardless of the car’s location.

By Csaba Daradics

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BMW Announces Performance Accessories for the U.S.-spec X5 Series

BMW has decided to spice up its U.S.-spec X5’s line-up by releasing numerous accessories from its in-house Performance division. Meant to improve aerodynamics and give the interior a sportier appearance, the parts will go on sale at Authorized BMW Centers by the end of this month.

American customers can opt for an aero kit, which includes redesigned bumpers and different side skirts. Tested at the German maker’s Münich wind tunnel, the aero parts are claimed to reduce drag and lift, improving stability at high speeds.

The aerodynamic package can be fitted to all X5 variants, minus the M model and those specified with trailer hitches. Furthermore, there’s also a set of black “kidney grilles” available.

The list of interior appointments is comprised of aluminum pedals and footrest, alongside a thick-rimmed and racing-inspired steering wheel, which is wrapped in hand-stitched Alcantara. Again, the latter is not available for the X5 M and models equipped with Lane Departure Warning system.

By Csaba Daradics

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