Much as we still have faith in democracy, we're also skeptical as to whether or not these particular vehicles are M-prototypes — or if M-badged trucks are coming at all. For instance, you'd think that they'd fit an M-model with bigger wheels, and maybe even remove the roof rack, but then they are just prototypes. All enthusiasts should hope these are just sport editions — if they are full-blown M-models, there really is nothing sacred left. [palbay]

BMW X5 Security is the only vehicle in its class to that a completely ballistic level of protection of VR4 offers. Or: balls of hand weapons such as one .44 magnum, one .357 magnum and 9 a millimeter Luger ricochet on B4 the certified material of the car. The ballistic level of protection of VR4 has been tested and has been certified according to the European directives. Moreover the testing agency has tested at the request of BMW additional with short and long distance cannonadings under angles of 45 and 90 degrees. Tests also these endured BMW with liveliness, as a result of which the car also became in accordance with certified.

On the they panels, the roof, the front and the back of the car material of a special high performance fibre developed in the Netherlands has been applied. Some parts have been once more extra reinforced with a kogelwerende steel type. The windows have been made of security glass with a cross-section of 22 millimeter and offer also ballistic level of protection VR4. Moreover the glass has been laminated. If it break it remains on its spot, so that the inzittenden are not touched by flying round bits. The trunk barge has been also armoured and as a result, good and safe opbergplaats. There than 500 kilos luggage more can be taken along in.

attack alarm and camera ’ s
BMW X5 Security has equipped with an intercom system and an attack alarm. By means of the intercom is communicate with the outside world without doors or estimate to open. When attack alarm descends, all windows and doors are concluded automatically. The service of the system has been got rid of subtly behind a afdekplaatje. Thanks to the camera system the driver can see simply what behind the car happens there, without farmhouses looking at. The camera ’ s in the voorbumper offers visibility on what by the car happens there. As a result, the driver has more overview at for example to leave of busy parking places or narrow lanes. See the camera pictures to be on the posting of iDrive-controller that in the instrument panel are assembled.

Standard finished factory guard
All security supplies in BMW X5 Security are provided finished factory. As a result, are possible security supplies in and are introduced around the passenger compartment seamless. Balls or other fragments cannot penetrate therefore in the interior on critical points as joints and passage areas. To process the extra weight of all security supplies well, is special components of assume adapted. Thus among others the bump silencing devices, framework and software under hands were taken. Under BMW X5 Security special security links which go along even empty still up to 50 kilometres, have been assembled. And drive with a speed of 80 km/u on empty security links is no problem.

file assistentiesystemen
Standard BMW X5 Security has equipped rijdynamische the systems Adaptive Drive, what inclines of coachwork against goes and Active Steering, what ensures wheel precision still more. And could the brake strength of the car decrease, for example by extremely high temperatures, then intervenes dynamic stability control (DSC). Anti-fading the support of this system foresees the car in which case of extra brake strength. Security, dynamics and protection: BMW X5 Security it offers therefore all on premiumniveau. This car has been four-wheel-operated sport-loving BMW, but or with exceptional security supplies which BMW ’ characterises s security vehicles.

Thirty years experience
Only some car manufacturers have a tradition in the construction of armoured car ’ s. already more than thirty years is to BMW one of them and offers its customers exclusive, reliable and exceptionally safe vehicles. This because it is taken into account at the construction of each BMW Security, always all existing active and passive security aspects. If extra service for its customers offers moreover already wide twenty years special file skill trainings to BMW for drivers of armoured vehicles. Participants can choose from several training levels, depending on knowledge earlier acquired. The programme exists from theories and practice part where the participants learn handle the armoured vehicles. The trainings are worldwide given by very experienced instructors.

BMW's high-performance-but-not-quite-M-worthy X5 prototype has now shown more of its face, free from its normal frontal camouflage. The once-mysterious X5 program has now become much clearer with today's photos, and some earlier engine shots revealing what appears to be a twin-turbocharged V8.

The hot X5's front fascia uses all of the cues consistent with BMW's Motorsport division, but sources report that an M-badged X5 is not in the cards — the X5's weight, height, and packaging are just too compromised for a proper M-car. But by the looks and sounds of this turbocharged V8 model as it circled the 'Ring, it will certainly give the top Porsche Cayenne some serious competition.

Expect it to also gain an X6-style front end with big air intakes and a sculpted hood. There's no word on whether or not Dynamic Performance Control (the technology that really gives the X6 its magic) will trickle down to the X5, but we wouldn't rule it out. The new engine could also bring with it the "is" badge, like the previous generation X5's 4.8is range-topper.

We've driven an X6 equipped with the V8, and while its performance is indisputably impressive, we preferred the slightly slower twin-turbo inline-six. The V8 weighs the X6's nose down too much, while the awful gearbox and turbo lag make exploiting the engine's full potential frustrating. Based on the same chassis, we can see no reason why the same won't be true of the so-equipped X5.
[via Car Magazine]

As we're sure you've noticed by now LUMMA have also seen fit to include an extravagant but somehow decent looking body kit and white wheels. A host of other minor interior and exterior modifications rounds out the package. We'd take ours without the visual modifications, using it as a combination sleeper / tower, hauling trailers full of dirt bikes down the Autobahn at three figure speeds.

BMW VISION EFFICIENTDYNAMICS AT THE 78TH INTERNATIONAL GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

Character:
• World premiere of the concept car BMW Vision EfficientDynamics,
showing a further stage in the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy. The first time a 4-cylinder diesel engine has been combined with BMW ActiveHybrid Technology in a large Sports Activity Vehicle.
• The concept study based on a BMW X5 - even as a serial production model extremely efficient and dynamic - shows the unique potential
of technology developed as part of the BMW EfficientDynamics programme. It combines BMW's superior diesel expertise with the innovative BMW ActiveHybrid Technology. A further increase in efficiency
is achieved by means of BMW EfficientDynamics measures in the environment of the combustion engine by optimising energy flow and aerodynamics.
• By intelligently combining a combustion engine and a generator as part
of a Mild Hybrid concept, dynamic performance and efficiency are increased to an equal degree. With the extensive deployment of measures which are in some cases ready for serial production and were in some cases specially developed for this study, there is maximum utilisation of the potential of BMW EfficientDynamics for the reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emission levels up to the limits of what is feasible within the
BMW X5 vehicle segment. At the same time, the study clearly shows that any additional increase in efficiency over and above the highly efficient BMW vehicles already available today can only be achieved by means of
an exponential increase in effort and expense.
• With an average fuel consumption of 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the
EU test cycle and a CO2 emission level of 172 grams per kilometre,
BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is by far the most efficient vehicle of its
size in the competitive environment of the BMW X models. The significant reduction of fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels is realised having to forego BMW's characteristic driving dynamics. In addition to acceleration (0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds), comfort and versatility are also at the level of a large SAV - but in conjunction with the fuel consumption and CO2 emission levels of conventional vehicles in the compact class.
Technology:
• The 2.0 litre 4-cylinder diesel engine with Variable Twin Turbo, common
rail injection of the third generation and all-aluminium crankcase
housing delivers 150 kW/204 bhp and generates a maximum torque of 400 Nm between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm. It is the first diesel in the
world with a specific power output of over 100 bhp per litre of capacity.
• BMW ActiveHybrid is based on a modular principle which allows
the integration of the best possible components in differing concepts, according to the "Best of Hybrid" strategy. The components used in
the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics study - Mild Hybrid and 4-cylinder diesel - harmonise just as perfectly as the combination of Full Hybrid and the 8-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid.
• The innovative hybrid system of the concept study BMW Vision EfficientDynamics reflects the most sophisticated stage of development of intelligent energy management in the vehicle to date. In the Mild Hybrid concept, the generator contributes to vehicle acceleration with 15 kW and
a maximum torque of 210 Nm. The total output of the vehicle is 165 kW.
The hybrid technology thus increases the dynamic potential of the
4-cylinder diesel engine in way which is in keeping with the character of the BMW X5, as well as enabling the combination of a small engine with
a large vehicle in the first place. What is more, the generator produces electricity to supply the power consumers in the vehicle by means of
Brake Energy Regeneration. This minimises the direct conversion of fuel into electrical energy and maximises the drive torque available for conversion into driving dynamics.
• Power generation: the compact generator, integrated in the crankcase housing, replaces a conventional generator powered directly by the engine. Electrical energy is produced by Brake Energy Regeneration with a unique degree of efficiency without impairing the drive torque of the engine. The high-power electronic system - for the first time flange-mounted directly onto the gearbox - allows a compact design which has never been possible before, as well as a sound arrangement of the hybrid components.
• Battery: a high-performance, package-appropriate lithium-ion battery integrated in the luggage compartment supplies the vehicle electrical system. Its high storage capacity enables optimum exploitation of the potential provided by Brake Energy Regeneration.
• Use of electrical power: due to the higher level of electrical power output available, additional vehicle functions can be powered purely electrically. The Auto Start/Stop Function for avoiding idling phases of the combustion engine is available virtually all the time and without any loss of comfort in conjunction with ActiveHybrid Technology.
• The hybrid module is based on a technology which was conceived as
part of the hybrid co-operation between BMW and Daimler. The hybrid co-operation successfully develops components for hybrid drives including high-power electronic systems and high-volt batteries. Here, the specific BMW design of the hybrid drive systems is ensured.
• The concept car BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is fitted with a novel,
highly efficient 8-speed automatic transmission developed jointly by
BMW and ZF Getriebe GmbH. Presented here for the first time and ready for serial production use, this 8-speed automatic transmission makes
an additional contribution to reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions with its direct connection to the engine and minimised torque-converter slip. The further increased shift dynamics and direct-find function for moving into the selected driving position promote a dynamic driving response. Power transmission is effected via the intelligent all-wheel
drive system BMW xDrive, i.e. fully variably between the front and rear axle.
• In the concept car BMW Vision EfficientDynamics there is also a solar
roof which acts as an additional energy source for the vehicle power supply which is independent of the engine. High-power solar cells covering
a surface area of some 1.0 square metres generate a maximum energy
of one kilowatt hour for consumers inside and outside the vehicle. This enables pre-heating of the gear oil, thereby shortening the inefficient warm-up phase. What is more, direct energy supply is possible during standstill
for ventilation or for operating a cool box, audio equipment, a mobile phone charger or for charging the vehicle battery, for example. This optimised
the availability and use of electrical energy in a way which is CO2-neutral.

Exterior design:
• BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is based visually and technologically
on the BMW X5. The BMW ActiveHybrid components are integrated in the vehicle in a way which is appropriate to the overall package. The generator and high-power electronic system are integrated in the transmission casing and thus invisible from the outside. A specially designed load compartment recess reflects the compact design of the lithium-ion battery.
• An innovative rim design opens up additional potential in the optimi-
sation of aerodynamics. The aero wheels of the concept car BMW Vision EfficientDynamics make an additional contribution to reducing fuel consumption, for example by requiring one kilowatt less of propulsion power at a speed of 160 km/h. The aerodynamic shaping of the spokes reduces rim ventilation. This has a positive impact on the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle.

In addition to the hybrid system, this concept version features brake regeneration and roof-mounted solar panels that create energy that can be used to pre-heat the diesel fuel. Thinking aerodynamically, the 19-inch light alloy wheels are sort of Wal-Mart looking but overall efficient. We're waiting for official confirmation, but in the meantime this does fit with comments made by Prof. Dr. Burkhard Goschel from BMW on the future of BMW engines back in 2004. [CarScoop]

Debuting at the Detroit Auto Show, the BMW 335d will achieve 0-62 mph in 6.2 seconds with a fuel economy of 23/33 mpg. By comparison, the new X5 with diesel will scoot to 62 mph in approximately 7.2 seconds with fuel economy of 19/25 mpg. To reduce emissions, the new engine features a Urea system (that's pee) with an AdBlue tank system that'll get changed for the first fours years or 50,000 miles by BMW technicians. [AutoSpies]

iPhone [BMWUSA.com]

Related:
Apple of My Car: iPods for New Vehicles; New In-Car iPod Options, One from GM; Over the Back Fence: Apple Develops Nav System, Mercedes to Offer? [internal]

A band of noble Swabian tuners from Laupheim just introduced their latest program for the latest BMW X5. No, we're not talking about the agnatic line of the Ellerbach dynasty, it's Hamann, which has been on a tear recently. The company's tuned X5 has been messed with entirely, from engine to suspension, wheels, interior and aerodynamics. There's no mondo superchargers under the hood, just a Motronics ECU kit, so don't get all drooley. Still, anything to lower the center of gravity and add aero stickiness is probably for the best. Especially if you absolutely, positively have to traverse Baden-Württemberg in an afternoon. – Mike Spinelli

Press Release:

Swabian Tuning for Bavarian elegant-SAV:
New BMW X5 with extensive modifications from HAMANN

• Aerodynamic parts for sportier debut
• Increase in performance for 3.0si, 3.0d and 4.8i
• Agile road handling through sport springs
• four wheel designs available in three sizes

One of the most successful cars of its class is the BMW X5. BMW only recently introduced its latest successor and HAMANN has already put together a complete program for the new X5. Hardly any area has been left untouched. Whether it's suspension, wheels, performance, interior or aerodynamics, the Laupheim German specialists provide clear individualisation launching far above the norm

New aerodynamic components are mandatory hence HAMANN begins with a new front spoiler that lends the SAV X5 a significant powerful feature. It´s mounted on the series-produced front apron. In back HAMANN added a rear apron seizing the design of the front spoiler to match. This component is also affixed to the series-produced parts. A further sporty accent shines through with the HAMANN roof spoiler, providing a stabilizing effect.

With such a large vehicle, every miniscule of power counts. For this reason, HAMANN reprogrammed the series-produced Motronic. The X5 3.0si received subsequently a power boost to about 14 PS/10kW and 25 Nm more torque. The X5 3.0d (with it´s basic 235 PS/173 kW) is raised by the tuners to 265 PS/ 195 kW and 600 Nm and 8-cylinder model 4.8i jumps by 18 PS/ 13 kW for more power and torque increase as well.

Not an easy choice!

Pondering over wheel choices will require the majority of customers´ time. Here are four designs of choice including PG3, Anniversary I and II as well as Edition Race.

The noble tuners from Laupheim present a multi-pieced wheel PG3 available in silver finish with high-polished flange. It´s characterized through the sporty five-spoke design.

The one-pieced wheel Anniversary I portrays a light footing with its´ multi-spoke design. HAMANN supplies these in silver finish with INOX stainless steel lip flange. The multi-pieced light alloy wheel Anniversary II exhibits a multi-spoke design as well projecting a feeling of pure motor sports. The silver rims with high-polished flange reflects both nobility and luxury simultaneously.

The appearance of the three-piece, ultra light forged wheels Edition Race in crossing spoke design and black wheel spider is identified through its´ nine main spokes double-attached, branching and continually double-crossing towards the outside rim. Its´ stirring design becomes particularly noticeable through Titan studs. The high-polished flange is icing on the cake to complete this luxurious look.

PG3 and Anniversary I are available through HAMANN for the X5 in 20 and 22-inch, Anniversary II in 22-inch and the wheel Edition Race comes in an impressive 23-inch. Naturally HAMANN offers the wheels in form of complete wheel sets.

Typical wheel / tire combinations::
Edition Race: FA/RA 10,5 Jx23 315/25R23 102Y XL
PG3: FA /RA 10,5 J x 22 295/30 ZR 22
PG3: FA/RA 9,5 J x 20 295/40 ZR 20
Anniversary II: FA/RA 10,5 J x 22 295/30 ZR 22
Anniversary I: FA/RA 10,5 J x 22 295/30 ZR 22
Anniversary I: FA/RA 10,5 J x 20 295/40 ZR 20
Anniversary I: FA/RA 10,5 J x 20 FA 275/40 ZR20 / RA 315/35 ZR 20

By using a set of progressive suspension springs, HAMANN reduces the center of gravity for the X5 . For those vehicles that have level regulation, it is lowered to about 40 mm in front, and for vehicles without level regulation or air suspension to about 40 mm in front and about 30 mm in back. Through this, the X5 receives a bit of agility back which, in contrast to its´ predecessor model, had suffered somewhat due to its bigger size.

Interior modifications per request

Large vehicles such as the BMW X5 are tailor-made for travel. Due to this, HAMANN also modified the interior. Travellers should have the drive be as comfortable as possible and additionally should provide a feast for the eyes. HAMANNs´ accessories such as an exclusive foot mat flooring in black, a foot pedal of aluminium or even an aluminium foot rest enhance the cockpit of the X5. Naturally HAMANN also modifies each BMW X5 for personalized customer requests. For example, extravagant leather decor is available in a variety of colours or an elaborate multimedia alterations including DVD, TV and Play station.

Related:
More Hamann tuners [internal]

How is this possible? The car was seized in the country and deemed stolen (I guess not a lot of Macedonians are driving around in $200K bimmers). When no one claimed it, the ute was turned over to the government who then turned it over to the country's interior minister, who promptly asked no questions. The interior minister is a fan and hopes to turn the car over personally in order to meet the Beckster, after which she's probably going to club him over the head and seize him for the Macedonian national soccer team.– Matt Hardigree

Beck's Stolen Car [Sky News]

Related:
Thieves Make Off With Beckham's Armor-Plated BMW [Internal]

Related:
Spartanburg, Are You Ready to Rock? BMW's X6 Gearup; Oddball F1 Car of Yesteryear: Tyrrell P34 in Monaco [Internal]

We've mostly decided we're tired of SUVs. We've owned one for three years, and the utility is fantastic, and worked wonderfully for us for a while. But now that we rarely drive (and if we do, it's often in a press or rental car), we're thinking about ditching ours for something that's well, more fun. Also, we're tired of SUV assholes, and if there's any relation between Americans and their British forefathers, well, check out the bit after the jump.

In a survey of the most common vehicles nicked for speeding, the X3, X5 and XC90 were all implicated in the top ten. What does this tell us? The article's author links it to the power of the vehicle. But c'mon, the Z4 and the 330i were also indicted. Obviously, the problem is assholes, not the cars. (Heartfelt apologies to Momma Wert, the Quandt family and Chris Bangle.)

Shocker: Speeding motorists drive fast cars [Intranetics Motoring News Service]

Related:
French to Bust Foreign Speeders, Impound Cars [Internal]

The seven-seat 2007 BMW X5 was revealed yesterday, much to the delight of children and kneeless adult passengers, who'd been clamoring for a third row to hunker down in while mom (or whoever) scooted throught the esses on US 208. It's also got a new iDrive controller that uses programmable hot keys to bypass the digital labyrinth for repetitive tasks. As for the design, the overproduced PR imagery makes it nearly impossible to suss out what the latest nip-and-tuck session has wrought. We'll see in Paris. Read the press release after the jump. [Gallery]

Press Release:

2007 BMW X5
Perfect Blend of Driving Dynamics, Functionality and Exclusivity

* Sports Activity Vehicle with further enhanced driving dynamics.
* More power and greater efficiency: inline six and V8 power
* Only vehicle in its segment with Active Steering, AdaptiveDrive, Head-Up Display and standard runflat tires.
* Standard: new six-speed automatic transmission
with electronic gear selector.
* Further enhanced: full-time BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive technology.
* Weight-optimized bodyshell with extreme torsional stiffness.
* Larger interior with up to seven seats.
* New iDrive control concept with six programmable keys.
* Exclusive interior with innovative options.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - August 8, 2006... Its predecessor paved the way for a brand-new type of vehicle. Now the new BMW X5 raises the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) driving experience to an even higher standard. Powerful eight and six-cylinder engines, unique suspension, enhanced BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a weight-optimized bodyshell with extreme torsional stiffness all interact to ensure excellent agility and dynamic performance.

The new BMW X5 is the only vehicle in its segment available with both Active Steering, developed by BMW, and AdaptiveDrive (a combination of Active Roll Stabilization and Electronic Damping Control). It is also the first SAV fitted with runflat tires as standard equipment.

The powerful elegance of the exterior design, just like the flexible and elegant interior, clearly underlines the dynamic character of the new BMW X5.

The new X5 will be available in the U.S. with either a 4.8-liter V8 capable of 350 horsepower or a 3.0-liter inline-six with 260 horsepower.

The all-new X5 has all the attributes that made the original Sports Activity Vehicle such an innovative concept, and elevates them to new standards.

The interior of the original X5 was one of its hallmarks. The interior in the new BMW X5 combines the most sophisticated materials with numerous innovative options, thus a first-class ambience.

With sales of approximately 580,000 units worldwide since its launch in 1999, the BMW X5 has become an outstanding global success and still enjoys great popularity to this day. Of course the U.S. is the market where the X5 has had the greatest impact. Over 240,000 BMW X5s have been sold in the U.S. alone.

As it was with the original, the goal was to offer the customer a generously dimensioned, luxuriously appointed and, at the same time, highly robust premium vehicle. With BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive and greater ground clearance the X5 possesses all the requirements for venturing out on rough terrain. By combining these attributes with outstanding on-road driving dynamics, BMW has initiated a completely new trend in the global vehicle market.

Related:
Leakity Leak! New BMW X5 Revealed [internal]

BMW's new X5 is set to be revealed officially this week. But does that mean you can't see it yet? Hells no. First, AutoWeek appears to have again negotiated a pre-release shot, considering they seem to have a Web exclusive on the above. (Oh wait, not any more.) But you want to see the whole bit, no? Correct. For that, we turn to our mates at Carscoop, who never met an embargo they didn't regard like a meth-addled silverback gorilla at a Harry and David cheese tasting.

In regards to the engine range, the new Bavarian SUV will be presented at the Paris Motor Show with two new petrol engines, the 265 Hp 3.0 6cylinder (0 to 100 km/h in 8,3 sec, top speed 216 km/h) and the 367 4.8 V8 (0 to 100 km/h in 6,5 sec, top speed 240 km/h) and one diesel, the highly acclaimed, 272 Hp 3.0 twin-turbo 6cylinder (0 to 100 km/h in 8,1 sec, top speed 225 km/h). The engine range is expected to grow rapidly after the car starts its career in Europe and the USA in the beginning of 2007 .

EXCLUSIVE: 2007 BMW X5 Official Photos & Info ! [Carscoop]

Related:
More on the BMW X5 [internal]

A supplier of automotive glass in Europe posted a shot of the next BMW X5 ahead of an official unveiling, Edmunds Inside Line reports. The shot features the evolutionary design approach to the new SUV, which keeps most of the last model's features, but is reported to be larger and has a new suspension system. Third row of seats? Check. [UPDATE: Of course, by now you know it's a fake. The boys from Edmunds have fallen on their swords and asked you, dear Jalopnik readers to come up with appropriate digs. All together now...]

Supplier Leak Reveals Next-Generation BMW X5 [internal]

Related:
More on the BMW X5 [internal]

Caught during road testing around Munich, the next-generation BMW X5 (codename: E70) looks like it'll be an evolutionary design step from the first-gen model. Nonetheless, BMW has done some serious backbending to include the all-important third row of seats, making room by adding 16 centimeters to the X5's length and six centimeters to its width. Spies also say the dashboard's gotten a makeover to allow for gadgetry including radar-assisted cruise control and the same night vision now available on the 7-Series. Figure on a Paris launch for the mainline models and a mid-2007 unveiling of the long-awaited M-Power edition.

All New BMW X5 Spy Photos [World Car Fans]

Related:
Spy Photos: More on the Next-Gen BMW X5 [internal]

The BMW boys seem to have upped the number of test sorties for the new, BMW X5 in the past month. The new model, which most watchers now say will come out in 2007 as a 2008 model (though all this activity makes us wonder whether it'll come out this year as an '07 as originally expected), will ride on the company's new E70 platform and get a range of engines lifted straight from the current-model 7-Series, including the ubiquitous 3.0-liter six, 4.0-liter, 5.0-liter and 5.4-liter V8s. Blogger and photog Killboy offers these new shots, taken on some manner of twisties.

E70 BMW X5 (1), (2) [Killboy]

Related:
Spy Photos: BMW X5 [internal]

Reader Joe snapped these shots while somewhere-bound and down on 85 in Greenville, SC. Apparently, the taped-up Bimmers were making the Meat Loaf and going like bats out of hell, giving Joe barely a whit of a chance to nab the shots. But thanks for nabbing said bare whit and tossing us the nabs you nabbed, Joe.

Related:
Spy Photo: Das Ist Nicht Another BMW 3-Series Ragtop [Internal]

Today, Spinelli and Farago discuss a Scottish cop's distaste at Top Gear's glorification of fast driving, the battle between GM and Ford for the real Super Bowl ring (as in that of cash registers), spy video of the next-generation BMW X5 and the new Dodge Nitro set to debut in Chicago. All that and an obligatory Jill Wagner reference. Pow!

The next-gen BMW X5 is on track for an unveiling in Paris later this year, but spies caught video footage of a test mule getting the business a state away at the N rburgring. Burbling away under the hood of the nimble luxobus is reportedly the same 360-hp, 4.8-liter V8 that powers the 2006 7-Series. Underfoot is an updated version of BMW's xDrive system, which appears to do what its stern engineers expect it to. No word on whether the slightly larger SUV will get a third row of seats, but there won't be many happy knees if it does.

Spy Video: 2007 BMW X5 [Edmunds]

Related:
Spy Photos: 2007 BMW X3, Nip and Tuck [internal]

It's like Steve Jobs's garage all over again, only swap "garage" for billions of dollars in research facilities. BMW's X5 SUV will be the first guinea pig to get the new FlexRay high-bandwidth data network — a system being developed by a consortium of automakers and their electronics suppliers. The FlexRay consortium launched in 2000, led by BMW and DaimlerChrysler, Motorola and Philips Semiconductors (subsequent members include GM, Volkswagen and Bosch) as an effort to create a set of standards that will enable next-generation cars' internal systems. While on the X5, FlexRay will only be used to control suspension damping, its high capacity (20MB/sec — compared to 1MB/sec in current systems) will someday be used in drive-by-wire systems, which forgo mechanical linkages to acceleration and braking, for example, in favor of electronic connections. (Geek trivia: BMW, DaimlerChrysler and Bosch are also members of AUTOSAR, an effort to create an open platform for automotive data; meaning, someday cars' data platforms might be as open to developers as, say, Linux.)

Automakers are close to adopting a faster in-car data network standard that could revive brake-by-wire and other by-wire technologies [AutoWeek]

Related:
Open Systems for Car Computers? [internal]

Real Madrid footballer David Beckham is awfully bent, after the armor-plated BMW X5 he bought to thwart would-be kidnappers of son Brooklyn was stolen. The extra-strength SUV, valued at around $175,000, was being used by an assistant, who had parked at an upscale Madrid hotel, but who forgot to set the tracking system. (British-English pun ahead.) Authorities are trying to discover whether the theft was an inside yob.

David Beckham s armored BMW X5 stolen [Leftlane News]

Related:
Beckham BMW Sells for Big Bucks on eBay [internal]