Source: leblogauto.com & autoblog.com
A new BMW X5 is waiting to enter the market at the end of 2006 (maybe beginning of 2007).
The new X5, coded e70, is expected to grow in size, and provide more room for passengers and luggage.
It is even expected that the e70 will have a third row seating feature to compete with its upmarket SUV's, but will keep the same kind of exterior as the previous X5 (e53).
To be able to offer the third seating row, the e70 will grow larger than it's predecessor, in width, length and height.
As you can see in the pictures, the new Sports Utility Vehicle is wearing a lot of camouflaging to hide it's new appereance, but it's also obvious that it'll keep in line with the current X5.
Power will be provided by either a 3.0-liter straight six or a 4.8-liter V8 (as seen in the current X5). The 255 HP straight six will offer both six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions while the larger 360 HP V8 will offer an automatic transmission only. BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system will provide the traction and, like the current model, it will be an all-weather system rather than an off-road-oriented system.
As for the diesel engined e70's, there will be some copying and pasting done from the 530d, a 3.0 liter diesel, and the 535d: that's right, a twin-turbo 3.0 liter straight six diesel engine, giving the new X5 a staggering 272 HP.
Fans of the current X5's interior might be disappointed as the new version will mimic the current 5 series sedan in its look and feel. The introduction of iDrive is almost guaranteed, along with the latest safety measures and improved communications.
