The world's largest dedicated 4x4 course ever built at a motor show, on more than 70 acres of challenging terrain, will provide visitors to The Sunday Times Motor Show Live with a driving experience to remember. Off-road vehicles will be put through their paces over hills, through water, across embankments and through mini ravines. Visitors will be able to experience the thrills of a 4x4 adventure - it's free once you're in the show

The nations favourite battered pick up, a red Toyota Hilux made famous by BBC’s Top Gear, makes an appearance at The Sunday Times Motor Show Live. The pick up, which looks an absolute wreck apparently still starts but won’t be moving from its static display at the show.

The heroic vehicle, which has been chained to the seabed and immersed by the tide and placed on top of a tower block that was demolished with explosives, astounded Jeremy Clarkson and Top Gear audiences when it simply refused to die.

The pick up can seen in all its wrecked glory at the Top Gear stand through out the show.

Sunday Times Motor Show Live, Birmingham, 25 May 2004 - Making its debut at Land Rover's home show is the proposed Freelander rally limited edition (LE) that could go on sale in the UK from September 2004, depending on public reaction and interest in the vehicle.

The Freelander LE concept boasts Fiji Blue metallic paint, sports leather interior, 18" white alloy sports wheels, lowered and tuned suspension together with blue stitching on the leather steering wheel and gear knob. The concept also features a glass twin panel roof for the 3-door or electric tilt/slide sunroof for the 5-door.

The concept was inspired by the reconnaissance vehicles used by Colin McRae and Carlos Sainz during the 2001 World Rally Championship, and evolved when Land Rover and M-Sport Ltd teamed up to introduce these vehicles at the Pirelli British Rally Championship (PBRC) as a spectator and safety control vehicle.

The Freelander starred at each of the 2003 Pirelli British Rally Championship events with ex-Scottish rally champion David Gillanders at the wheel. During a trial session at Land Rover's proving ground in Warwickshire, David Gillanders said: "This is the most capable Freelander in the world. It can take everything thrown at it and more".

Land Rover UK managing director, Phil Popham said: "The popularity of the Freelander rally vehicles at various events during the past twelve months convinced us to build a one-off LE to gauge public reaction. That's what we have done for Birmingham and we look forward to hearing what visitors to the show think of it."

Sunday Times Motor Show Live, Birmingham, 25 May 2004 – Making its world debut at The Sunday Times Motor Show Live at Birmingham is the powerful and refined Land Rover Discovery 3 TDV6. Equipped with an advanced common-rail 2.7-litre power unit, the Land Rover Discovery 3 TDV6 is set to redefine a market that Land Rover has made its own.

Matthew Taylor, Land Rover's managing director says of the new vehicle: ‘The all-new Land Rover Discovery 3 is the purest expression of 21st Century Land Rover. It is modern, boldly designed, packed with high technology and has the broadest breadth of capability in its class. Now with the addition of this new engine, that has already earned critical acclaim in its Jaguar form, the new Discovery 3 TDV6 will offer outstanding power, responsiveness and refinement to our customers when it goes on sale later this year.’

Anticipated to be the major seller both in the UK and in Europe the 2.7-litre, V6, direct-injection, turbocharged diesel engine develops 140 kW (190bhp) of power. This is coupled with an impressive 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque at less than 1,900 rpm endowing the Discovery 3 TDV6 with excellent drivability. The 24-valve engine features the latest technology including a high-pressure common-rail fuel supply, fast-acting electronically-controlled injectors and a turbocharger with variable nozzle control.

The TDV6 engine is extensively developed to meet the unique demands of Land Rover. Its oil sump has pick up points designed to operate at extreme angles and the front crank oil seal is modified to guard against ingress from water, mud or slurry during wading or other off-road driving conditions. Also unique to its Land Rover application, the TDV6 turbo-diesel has an aluminium ladder frame at the bottom of the crankcase to improve rigidity.

The all-aluminium, 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine provides a powerful alternative. Developing 220 kW (295 bhp) of power and 425 Nm (314 lb-ft) of torque, this power unit features Variable Camshaft Timing that means the engine responds instantly to driving demands. Maximum fuel efficiency is provided by multi-hole fuel injectors and a 32-valve layout.

Power is fed through a manual or automatic ZF six-speed gearbox on the new diesel model. The automatic unit is standard for the V8 petrol engine. A two-speed transfer box shares the drive between the front and rear axles and features an electrically-controlled locking differential. A similar unit is optional in the rear differential for maximum off-road traction.

The Discovery 3 is based on Land Rover’s innovative Integrated Body-Frame™ structure, which allows Land Rover to deliver all the comfort, refinement and on-road poise of a monocoque, while continuing to set new standards in off-road performance.

All-round independent suspension riding on variable-height air springs results in precise road manners and supple confidence off-road. The braking system features large disc brakes all-round to provide maximum stopping power, with the TDV6 boasting 317 and 325 mm discs on the front and rear respectively and the V8 337 and 350 mm. The Discovery 3 has a comprehensive array of slip control systems including dynamic stability control, electronic traction control and the award-winning hill descent control to cope with any situation on- or off-road.

Harnessing the performance of the Discovery 3 to cope with a variety of conditions is made simple with the sophistication offered by the new Terrain Response system, which makes its production debut in the Discovery 3, following its preview in the Range Stormer concept vehicle.

Using only a single chunky control, the driver simply dials in the appropriate surface confronting the vehicle, choosing from a general programme for normal driving, a special programme for slippery conditions (dubbed ‘grass/gravel/snow’), and three covering off-road surfaces – mud/ruts, sand and rock crawl. Terrain Response automatically tunes the vehicle’s systems including engine and gearbox response, electronic slip control systems sensitivity and even ride height to optimise driveability and comfort as well as maximising traction.

The interior features the iconic spaciousness typical of the Discovery nameplate. The driver enjoys Land Rover's traditional 'command' seating position, while all the rear passengers get stadium seating – progressively higher than the seats in front – offering a clearer view. The optional third row of seats serve up great comfort, and are big enough to accommodate 95th percentile adults. This cleverly designed seating, fit for seven adults, further improves the Discovery 3's outstanding versatility, including fold-flat rear seats in both second and third rows, to give huge load-carrying ability.

Careful choice of materials for the internal trim enhances the airy practicality of the Discovery 3 and the travelling experience is improved by the latest in-car ‘infotainment’ system options that include state-of-the-art on- and off-road navigation and a harman/kardon ‘Logic 7’ digital surround sound hi-fi system, with control being through a widescreen LCD display with voice recognition.

Land Rover’s managing director, Matthew Taylor, says of the Discovery 3: ‘It’s a true Land Rover, benefiting from a clarity of purpose and conviction that’s evident from its clean design, versatility and outstanding dynamic characteristics. Like all of the new Land Rovers, it’s great to drive on-road as well as being best-in-class off-road. The Discovery 3 will reinforce Land Rover’s command of a market sector that it created with the original Discovery. It’s a bold and distinctive design that’s coupled with innovative features and a range of powerful engines to provide an unforgettable driving experience whether on- or off-road.’

by Ray Hutton of The Sunday Times
The Nissan Murano is called a “crossover” because nobody quite knows how to classify it. It has the 3.5 litre V6 engine from the Nissan 350Z sports car, developing 240bhp, with four-wheel drive and a continuously variable (CVT) automatic transmission. It is based on a car platform but has a shapely body that is like a smoother and lower sport-utility vehicle. It is a big success in America, where they probably don’t realise that it is named after an island in the Venice lagoon that has no cars . . .
The Murano will appear here for the first time at The Sunday Times Motor Show Live (May 27-June 6) and will go on sale in Britain early next year. Nissan likes to make a comparison with the BMW X-series which are also part SUV and part estate car. The Murano is the size of the X5 but will cost less than an equivalently equipped X3, which means around £32,000. I think that, in reality, the Lexus RX300 is a closer competitor.

This vehicle will appeal to those seeking the performance and comfort of a powerful saloon with a higher SUV driving position. The Murano interior has a sporty look and feel, with lots of aluminium trim, and borrows the 350Z instrument cluster which adjusts up and down with the steering column.

A DVD satellite navigation system will be standard fitting, and the rear seats fold down at a flip of the remote control key. There is one snag, though. Because it was designed for the American market, the Murano offers no diesel alternative to the big and thirsty V6 petrol engine.

Britain's Biggest consumer show, The Sunday Times Motor Show Live is revving up with only days to go to the showcase of it's brand new format! We've brought the dates forward from October to May and introduced new interactive features including Motropolis Live Action Arena, a 4 x 4 off road experience, a Driving School for kids over the age of 14 and a 'Taster Test Drive' feature for anyone interested in test driving a car.
Motor Show Live

High performance with outstanding fuel economy, driving excitement with ultra low emissions.

The rulebook says that these four highly desirable automotive characteristics cannot exist within one vehicle. But in our quest to create cars that are as kind on the environment as they are exhilarating for the driver, Lexus has rewritten all the rules.

The result is the world's first luxury vehicle, the four wheel drive RX300, to incorporate hybrid technology. It will be launched in late 2004, with other Lexus hybrid models becoming available in subsequent years. It will redefine the thinking on hybrid technology by integrating a petrol engine with high-voltage electric motors that, in combination, drive the front and rear wheels. Power for the electric motors is generated internally; so external charging is never necessary. And if the word 'electric' equates to 'slow' in your mind, think again - the system returns fuel efficiency and emission levels which are similar to those of a much smaller, compact car.
Enjoying the benefits
Driving RX400h fitted with Hybrid Synergy Drive you immediately notice its impressive performance and seamless acceleration. Despite using a high-performance 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine, it delivers the fuel efficiency of a 4 cylinder family sedan.
More Info

By: Brad Nevin | Ford Communications Network

DEARBORN, Mich., May 19, 2004 -- The Ford Escape Hybrid SUV began a summer-long tour yesterday to demonstrate the exceptional fuel economy and no compromise performance of Ford's newest SUV. The tour began in San Francisco and will stop at 35 cities across the United States and Canada this summer.

“With the Escape Hybrid slated to hit showrooms this summer, and the inevitable concerns about rising gas prices, we think this is the right time to illustrate the commitment Ford has to finding environmental solutions to the challenges that face the industry and the planet,” said Mary Ann Wright, Ford Director of Hybrid Vehicle Programs. “The Escape Hybrid represents an extraordinary step forward that achieves multiple goals, from reductions in tailpipe emissions and greenhouse gases to substantial increases in fuel economy.”

During stops in the Escape Hybrid tour, Ford executives and other experts will meet with local government officials to offer a “first drive” opportunity of the Escape Hybrid.

Consumers will learn that the all-new Ford Escape Hybrid is the auto industry’s first no-compromise, full-hybrid SUV, delivering 35 to 40 mpg in city driving. Escape Hybrid combines near-zero emissions and outstanding fuel economy with the go-anywhere capability, toughness and cargo capacity of the Ford Escape, America’s best-selling compact SUV. The Escape Hybrid, which is able to run on its gasoline engine or electric motor or both to optimize fuel efficiency, recently completed a 37-hour, 576-mile journey through Manhattan on a single 15-gallon tank of gas.

As part of Escape Hybrid’s tour, Ford also has partnered with BP to give some consumers $20 gas cards at the events in various cities. Ford and BP have also formed a strategic partnership and will place up to 30 hydrogen-powered Ford vehicles in metropolitan Sacramento, Orlando and Detroit. BP will build a network of fueling stations to support them.

Ford’s environmental commitment includes investing in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, hydrogen internal combustion engines, hybrid electric vehicles, clean diesel and other technologies.

Ford also is working to make manufacturing more environmentally friendly, beginning with a $2-billion makeover of the 600-acre Ford Rouge Center. The world’s largest living roof, natural wetlands, porous pavement and new technology that turns paint fumes into electric energy are all a part of the new Ford Rouge Center.

“Our vision for Ford Motor Company’s next 100 years is great products, a strong business and a better world,” said Bill Ford, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “The 2005 Escape Hybrid is the embodiment of this philosophy -- a fuel-efficient, cleaner-emissions version of the capable Escape SUV -- and a crucial foray into the rapidly growing hybrid vehicles market. This vehicle represents an important, viable part of our strategy for sustainability in vehicles and manufacturing.”

Gerry McGovern has been named director, Advanced Design for Land Rover, and will be working alongside Geoff Upex, who continues as Design director for Land Rover.

"Gerry is uniquely suited to this role," said J Mays, Ford Motor Company’s group vice president of Design. "He’s already shown the world that he fully understands Land Rover’s DNA, having led the team that designed Freelander. Since then, Gerry’s work at Lincoln-Mercury and Ingeni has demonstrated his ability to clearly define brand and product strategies by understanding diverse international markets."

In this new role, McGovern will report to both Mays and Hans Gustavsson, director of Product Development, Jaguar and Land Rover.

The new and additional emphasis on advanced design for Land Rover mirrors the strategy embraced by Jaguar and is key to further strengthening the world’s premium SUV lineup.

Land Rover’s managing director Matthew Taylor said, "Land Rover’s intense period of product launches is gathering momentum, and we want to further accelerate our ability to introduce fresh new products. The all-new Land Rover LR3 received a tremendous reaction at the New York Auto Show, and our first-ever concept vehicle – the Range Stormer – has had strong reviews since its worldwide debut in January."

He added: "With this appointment, we’re aiming to further strengthen our talented design team to capitalize on the huge potential and growth opportunities for this great brand. Two of the world’s top designers – Gerry and Geoff – will help drive and execute our vision and growth. Gerry’s experience in the U.S. will also prove invaluable as we set our sights on improving our appeal in this key market."

McGovern, who will be based in Gaydon with Upex, has been director of Ingeni, Ford Motor Company’s London-based design and creativity center.

Ingeni's team of multidisciplinary designers created vehicles and concepts for the company's eight brands, designed luxury goods for the Premier Automotive Group brands and created products – including cell phones, furniture and airplane interiors – for outside companies. The company redeployed Ingeni designers to support core product programs in late 2003 given challenging business and economic conditions.

Before assuming the top post at Ingeni in August 2003, McGovern was Lincoln-Mercury Design director – his first design job upon joining Ford Motor Company in 1999.

No stranger to the Land Rover brand, McGovern was studio director of Land Rover for the Rover Group in Warwickshire, England, where he was responsible for key Land Rover products. Whilst at Rover, he also played a significant role in creating other production vehicle within the Rover Group portfolio – most notably the highly successful MGF.

Early in his career, McGovern also worked with Chrysler Corporation, both in the UK and America. He also worked at Peugeot as a senior product designer working on design proposals for car and truck model ranges.

"With this move, we’re further strengthening Land Rover’s design team and investing still more in the future of this powerhouse brand," Mays says. "That’s good news for Land Rover as well as the growing number of people who appreciate our premium SUVs."

A production version of the Honda SUT concept that debuted at the 2004 North American International Auto Show will be produced at Honda of Canada Mfg. (HCM) in Alliston, Ontario, in 2005. To make room for the new model, all production of Honda's popular Odyssey minivan at HCM's No. 2 line will shift to Honda Manufacturing of Alabama (HMA) in Lincoln, Alabama with the production start-up of the all-new '05 Odyssey in fall 2004.

"We will soon have the capability to produce light trucks flexibly among three production lines at two plants in Alabama and Canada," said Koki Hirashima, President of Honda of America Mfg. (HAM), who is also responsible for Honda's manufacturing operations in North America. "This will further enhance our ability to respond more flexibly and quickly to the needs of our customers."

The new SUT model will become the sixth light truck model for Honda and Acura - joining the Honda Odyssey, CR-V, Pilot, Element and Acura MDX.

Hyundai is all set to storm the Sunday Times Motor Show Live, taking place at the Birmingham NEC from 27 May to 6 June 2004, with three UK debuts.

Not only will the show see the UK debut of the company’s eagerly awaited new small-SUV, the Tucson, but two popular future prototypes will be on show together for the first time.

The Tucson (pronounced Too-son), is set to go on sale in the UK from the autumn, and is Hyundai’s new entry level point into the 4x4 market, competing with the likes of the Toyota RAV-4 and Land Rover Freelander. The Tucson features a ‘torque-on-demand’ four-wheel drive system, where the vehicle engine system detects when traction is lost and switches the car from front-wheel drive into four-wheel drive.

Hyundai will also be taking part in the Motor Show 4x4 Experience, where visitors can be driven around a challenging off-road course in a Santa Fe or Terracan.

The other Hyundai models at the show will include the Santa Fe and Terracan.

The Hyundai range at the show come with the UK’s only five year warranty – which is transferable between owners and has no mileage limit.

Hyundai can be found in Hall 7, at Stand 7-110.

An all-new premium SUV, packed with user-friendly technology
Exceptional breadth of capability - dynamic on-road performance and class-leading off-road
Bold and distinctive design that delivers a spacious, versatile seven-seat cabin
Production debut for Land Rover's innovative Terrain Response™ and Integrated Body-frame™ architecture
New engines tailored for Land Rover, plus six-speed transmissions and air suspension

The Land Rover Discovery 3 is an all-new, premium SUV that offers class-leading breadth of capability, innovative user-friendly technology, distinctive design and a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate up to seven adults.

'A true Land Rover, the Discovery 3 benefits from a clarity of purpose and conviction that is evident from its clean design, versatility and outstanding driving experience. Like all new Land Rovers, it's great to drive on-road, as well as being best-in-class off-road,' said Matthew Taylor, managing director, Land Rover.

The Discovery 3 also introduces sophisticated new technologies, among them Land Rover's patented Terrain Response™ system, previewed on the recent Range Stormer concept car. This optimises driveability and comfort, as well as maximising traction. The driver simply chooses one of five terrain settings via a rotary switch on the centre console: a general driving programme, plus one for slippery conditions (known as 'grass/gravel/snow') and three special off-road modes (mud/ruts, sand, rock crawl). Terrain Response then automatically selects the most appropriate settings for the vehicle’s advanced electronic controls and traction aids – including ride height, engine torque response, hill descent control, electronic traction control and transmission settings.

'With Terrain Response, it's like having an expert alongside you, to help you get the best out of the vehicle whatever the conditions, on-road or off,' added Matthew Taylor.

Another innovation is the Integrated Body-frame™ structure, which has allowed Land Rover to deliver all the comfort, refinement and on-road attributes of a monocoque, while continuing to set new standards in off-road performance. The Discovery 3 also features adaptive headlights that swivel with the direction of travel to illuminate the road ahead.

Dynamic on-road performance

Dynamic on-road performance is a top priority for the Discovery 3. The top-of-the-range engine is a specially developed 4.4-litre version of Jaguar’s acclaimed V8 petrol engine. Changes for Land Rover use include increased capacity (from 4.2-litres), more low-end torque, enhanced dust- and water-proofing, and revised breathing to enable the car to wade rivers as well as cruise highways. In Land Rover guise, the engine must also be able to run at acute angles for extreme off-road use.

The top-selling engine in Europe is likely to be Land Rover's new, smooth and flexible 2.7-litre V6 turbodiesel (not available in North America), a common rail unit that uses variable geometry turbocharging

The third engine in the line-up (for selected markets only) is a petrol 4.0-litre V6, a version of one of the world's best-selling SUV powerplants now further developed for Land Rover use.

All three engines offer strong on-road performance, with full-time four-wheel drive. Both petrol derivatives are matched to a six-speed automatic ‘intelligent shift’ transmission, also available with the diesel though this is offered with a six-speed manual as standard.

On-road driving and refinement are enhanced by fully independent suspension all round, using air springs on most models. This is height adjustable, to assist with entry and exit, and to boost ground clearance to help off-road performance.

Outstanding versatility

'The design of the Discovery 3 is derived from its capability. Everything you see has been done for a reason,' said design director Geoff Upex. 'The priority was to give the passengers and driver a superb cabin environment, with more headroom and greater comfort. It has big, deep glazing, because that provides greater airiness and a better view.’

It is also unambiguously a Land Rover. ‘An absolute priority was that nobody could mistake this vehicle for anything else,’ said Upex. ‘It had to look thoroughly modern, bold and distinctive.’

Unique Land Rover design cues include its bold, geometric vertical and horizontal elements; its stepped roof (to boost headroom); its asymmetric rear tailgate (to reduce load height when the lower part of the tailgate is closed, and reduce ‘reach in’ distance when opened); the use of an air intake on only one side of the body (it’s all that was needed); and its large glazed areas.

The driver enjoys Land Rover’s traditional ‘command' seating position, while all the rear passengers get stadium seating – progressively higher than the seats in front, offering a clearer view. The optional third row of seats serve up great comfort, and are big enough to accommodate 95th percentile adults.

Large doors provide easy access, with both second and third rows entered from the centre doors. Cleverly designed seating further improves the outstanding versatility, including fold-flat rear seats in both second and third rows, to give huge load-carrying possibilities.

The all-new Discovery 3 replaces Land Rover’s segment-defining Discovery, the best-selling large SUV in many European countries since its launch in 1989. The new vehicle goes on sale later this year, depending on market.

Editor's Note: The all-new Land Rover wears the name LR3 in North America and Discovery 3 in all other markets.

A Land Rover Freelander finished strongly in last weekend’s Granite City Rally after being selected by one of the hottest new prospects on the rally driving scene as his vehicle of choice.

Matthew Wilson (17), son of motorsport great Malcolm Wilson, piloted a special rally-prepared M-Sport Land Rover Freelander during the event and surprised seasoned veterans by finishing his class in 21st position after completing 44 miles of fearsome forest stages south of Aberdeen.

Matthew’s performance was all the more memorable because it was just his third competitive rally and its successful completion now makes him eligible for his professional licence.

Commenting on the event Matthew said: “The Granite City Rally was my toughest test yet but a fantastic opportunity to gain more experience and learn from the professionals that compete in it as part of the Scottish Rally Championship. It’s an event that demands respect from even the most experienced driver.”

The event’s casualty rate was high, with 10 per cent of the vehicles failing to finish, but the M-Sport Freelander surprised many competitors by proving that it had both the power and durability to meet the demands of competition.

Matthew added: “This was the first rally that the Freelander has competed in and many of the other drivers were keen to see how well it performed. From extensive

testing I knew that its handling and reliability wouldn’t be a problem, which meant I could concentrate more on my own performance. On the day, it finished the rally as it started – only fuel was added.”

The M-Sport Freelander is based upon a standard V6 model – which is powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine – but also incorporates a full roll-cage for safety and an uprated suspension system and brake-pads to deliver improved handling in the heat of competition – making it the most capable Freelander in the world.

Aberdeen’s Granite City Rally – now in its 35th year – has grown from a small, local navigational challenge into a fully-fledged, and internationally recognised, forest rally. Saturday’s (17 April) event attracted over 70 entries, including many leading drivers drawn by the event’s challenging course and welcoming atmosphere.

BMW Great Britain is enhancing the X5 success story by announcing details of the new X5 4.8is as well as a range of product enhancements across the X5 model line up. These additions supplement the new styling, engines, gearboxes and xDrive, BMW’s new four-wheel drive system, that were introduced in December 2003.

Priced at £57,450.00 OTR, customer deliveries of BMW’s flagship X5 4.8is start in May 2004.

The X5 4.8is will add further lustre to BMW’s successful SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) story. The X5 commands some of the best residual values in the industry and achieved record UK sales of over 8,500 units in 2003. With its combination of V8 performance, practicality and road holding, the X5 4.8is is also expected to enhance the X5’s existing levels of customer satisfaction. In 2003, both Top Gear and WHICH? magazine published surveys showing that X5 customers were more likely to recommend their car to a friend than any other model on the market.

High performance in the marketplace is linked to high performance on and off the road, with the new X5 4.8is powered by a 4.8-litre V8 engine developing 360 bhp at 6,200 rpm and 500 Nm of torque at 3,600 rpm. This engine is derived from the 2002 International Engine of the Year already fitted in the BMW X5 4.4i, BMW 545i SE, BMW 645Ci and BMW 745i models. Mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard, the new car powers from 0 to 62 mph in 6.1 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 153 mph. BMW’s patented VALVETRONIC induction system and bi-VANOS camshaft timing technology ensure that fuel consumption is a relatively frugal 20.9mpg on the combined cycle.

Keeping power and traction perfectly balanced is the responsibility of BMW’s new xDrive four-wheel drive system. Standard across the BMW X5 and forthcoming X3 ranges, xDrive uses a centrally mounted electronically-controlled clutch to distribute power to the axle with most traction. In conjunction with this clutch, BMW’s standard DSC system can reduce power and even brake individual wheels to ensure the car benefits from all available grip. This sets new standards for traction from a 4 x 4 system and ensures that any loss of footing is dealt with in an instant, rather than waiting until the car becomes physically unstable.

Externally, enhanced sporting styling to the front and rear valances differentiates the new BMW X5 4.8is from the standard X5. The new car also features a unique V-spoke alloy wheel with 9.5J x 20-inch wheels on the front and 10J x 20-inch wheels on the rear, fitted with 275/40 R20 and 315/35 R20 tyres respectively.

Colour also sets the car apart, with the 4.8is the only model in the X5 range available in Le Mans Blue and Imola Red. Also available are Titanium Silver, Sterling Grey and Black Sapphire. Inside, Cream Beige Nappa leather and Nappa leather / Alcantara trim are only available on the BMW X5 4.8is with Black Nappa leather also offered.

Enhancements across the range

From March production, all BMW X5 models will receive significant enhancements to the standard and optional equipment. Brake Force Display becomes standard, alerting drivers behind to emergency braking by the BMW in front. This innovative braking system illuminates further brake lamp bulbs, intensifying the lights under heavy braking or when the ABS cuts in. BMW’s Tyre Pressure Warning System becomes standard on all models: it constantly monitors tyre pressures and alerts the driver to a sudden or progressive tyre deflation via the Check Control system.

Enhancements to the BMW X5’s optional equipment include the introduction of the new Panorama Sunroof. Replacing the standard sunroof and priced at £1,095.00, this large two-panel sunroof offers heat-reflective tilting glass panels, a large sliding front panel and independently sliding headlining panels.

Also new are Adaptive Headlamps, priced at £275.00. Launched on the BMW 3 Series Coupé and Convertible and more recently on the BMW 5 and 6 Series, Adaptive Headlamps use the car’s speed, steering and yaw angles to swivel the bi-xenon headlamps (standard on 4.4i and 4.8is; optional on 3.0i and 3.0d) by up to 15 degrees. This aims the headlamp beam in the direction the car is travelling rather than the direction the car is pointing.

Finally, for those venturing off the beaten track, the new BMW X5 can be specified with a digital compass for the interior mirror for an additional £60.00, which uses an LED display in the mirror to provide the direction of travel.