Harald Hoelzl (right), managing director of BMW Group Malaysia and Sashi Ambi, head of corporate communications, at the launch.
BMW Malaysia has introduced three new additions to the BMW X Series – the all-new BMW X5, the X4 and the delicious BMW X2 M35i. The Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV) and SAC (Sports Activity Coupe) are equipped with more powerful engines and design language to the German marque apart.
Speaking at the launch held at Sungai Besi Royal Malaysian Air Force base in Kuala Lumpur in Friday, Harald Hoelzl, managing director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “The performance of the BMW X portfolio in Malaysia has been nothing short of remarkable. Last year, we successfully delivered more than 5,000 units of BMW X vehicles, resulting in significant double-digit growth of 19%.
“In the first four months of this year alone, the delivery of over 1,500 BMW X vehicles demonstrates the demand for our SACs and SAVs. We are committed to fulfilling that increasing demand with the all-new BMW X models and once again set a new benchmark for the premium SAV & SAC segment.”
Onto the machines themselves. BMW says a powerful, fuel-efficient three-litre six-cylinder petrol engine powers the new X5, generating a top speed of 243km/h with a maximum output of 250kW/340hp and a peak torque of 450Nm. The X5 sprints from 0-100km/h in only 5.5 seconds. Its fuel-efficiency is demonstrated by its significantly lowered fuel-consumption of 9.2 l/100km of travel with a carbon emission of 211/km (manufacturer’s figures).
The engine is complemented by a revised eight-speed Steptronic transmission with enhanced shift dynamics. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via the xDrive. Equipped with a double-wishbone front suspension, five-link rear suspension and Adaptive M Suspension, the chassis of the X5 can be specifically configured to maximise its dynamic ability or comfort provided by the Sports mode and performance personalisation by the ‘Driving Experience Control’.
The interior bears the M Sport DNA. A striking characteristic of the X5’s design language is the special electroplated finishing that adds an electrifying touch of luxury to the interior. This new SAV has four-zone air conditioning, the ‘Rear Seat Entertainment Professional’ and a panorama glass roof which makes for a brighter interior.
For the new BMW X2 M35i, the numerous M Performance elements stamp their mark distinctively. At first glance, the sporty SAV immediately astounds with a sleek double kidney grille in Cerium Grey. In addition to that are the newly redesigned side air inlets positioned at the front for maximum brakes and engine cooling efficiency.
At the rear, it flaunts an M Sport exhaust system with two 100mm-diameter tailpipes. Thanks to the adapted silencer system, the M Performance exhaust system produces a particularly sporty sound spectrum courtesy of the 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo engine.
BMW says the first-ever M Performance 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine sets a new benchmark as it generates a maximum power output of 225kW/306hp and a maximum torque of 450Nm. The top speed is 250km/h, consuming 7.4 litres of fuel for every 100km of travel.
This model comes with the intelligent four-wheel drive technology, xDrive in conjunction with the 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission including ‘Launch Control’, an acceleration aide for optimal traction and grip when accelerating upon start-up.
Standard equipment for this SAC includes xDrive all-wheel drive, Adaptive Suspension, Variable Sport Steering, electronic differential lock, Hill-Start Assistant, Hill Descent Control along with ‘Performance Control’ that distributes engine and braking control to the individual wheels when turning.
Inside, the X4 comes with electroplated trim details for the controls and a larger free-standing 10.25-inch ‘Navigation System Professional’ with Touch Sensitive Control Display, complete with BMW ‘ConnectedDrive’. The all-new SAC is also equipped with a full-colour Heads-Up Display. In addition to that is a high-resolution 12.3-inch Multifunctional Instrument Display with Black-Panel Technology. The advanced Voice Control system has also been improved to follow instructions phrased in natural language.
The 4+1-seater’s cockpit is oriented towards the driver; the slightly raised seating position and low instrument panel enable clear visibility of the road. The newly designed sports seats with pronounced side bolsters create a sporty ambience for the front occupants, as do the knee pads on the centre console.
The price tags? Here you go:
The All-New BMW X5 xDrive40i M Sport goes for RM640,000 while
X2 M35i retails for RM400,000. The X4 xDrive30i M Sport rings the cash register at RM380,000. All prices without insurance.
Catch the all-new X5 and X2 at the BMW X Crew event taking place at Plaza Arkadia, Desa Park City in the capital from June 21 to 23. Chequebooks optional.
