Diesel X5 to hit US by mid-October

[LeMansX5]

With new CAFE regulations and ever-rising fuel prices, it won't be long until every automaker has at least a few diesel-powered models in their lineup. But the first push into the clean-diesel market will be lead by the German brands, and it doesn't look like we will have to wait long for them to arrive in the U.S.

According to BMW Blog, the BMW 335d and the X5 xDrive35d should be hitting U.S. shores in mid-October. Both models will be powered by BMW's 3.0L twin-turbocharged inline six — producing 265 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque — and should be atop their respective segments in both fuel-economy and performance.

The diesel-powered 535d will also be sold in the U.S., but its on-sale date still remains unclear. However, prototypes have been seen testing in Michigan, indicating that it shouldn't be far behind the other diesel offerings from BMW.

[bimmer_buachaill]

Mmm, torque.

Given that the xDrive35d is now the most likely tow vehicle in the BMW stable, you think they could finally hook up a brake controller wire to the damn hitch at last (like all American & Japanese trucks). They should just include the tow hitch stock on the diesel X5.

I also heard that there is increased braking in the xDrive35d over other X5s. Any truth?

[watrob]

Originally Posted by bimmer_buachaill

Mmm, torque.

Given that the xDrive35d is now the most likely tow vehicle in the BMW stable, you think they could finally hook up a brake controller wire to the damn hitch at last (like all American & Japanese trucks). They should just include the tow hitch stock on the diesel X5.

I also heard that there is increased braking in the xDrive35d over other X5s. Any truth?

FYI. The SD X5 diesel in Australia has larger rotors than the 4.8 V8 X5. The standard 3.0d X5 diesel has smaller rotors than the V8.

[Quicksilver]

Any word on pricing???

[vinuneuro]

Aren't diesel models typically more expensive? + diesel is more expensive than gas in the US. I wonder if it'll really be worth it for us.

[Quicksilver]

Lot's of threads devoted to the pro's and cons regarding this choice. In the final analysis though the customers are going to decide if it's worth it to embrace the technology despite the cost.

The best example in this country is the popularity of Ford F250/350 diesels. There are more than enough of the same models in the gas version. So why buy diesel? Besides being a work horse for those who make that choice, there's a culture of drivers who enjoy diesels. Now add all the other goodies that come with driving a BMW and it seems that there's a fascination with driving something different.

I believe it was you who said that the majority of people view cars as an appliance. Something to be used to get from one place to another.
Not with this purchase...With this kind of decision cost will not be a factor for those who want to express their independence.
These buyers will be buying for the enjoyment that the diesel experience will bring. A 6000lb beast with mega torque.

Originally Posted by vinuneuro

Aren't diesel models typically more expensive? + diesel is more expensive than gas in the US. I wonder if it'll really be worth it for us.

[bimmer_buachaill]

Originally Posted by vinuneuro

Aren't diesel models typically more expensive? + diesel is more expensive than gas in the US. I wonder if it'll really be worth it for us.

The diesel will likely be more expensive than the 3.0i petrol, similar to the 3.0 twin turbo petrol and cheaper than the 4.4i (which may come with additional options included).

Diesel is about 10% more expensive than gasoline in the states and the mileage is >10% better in the diesel so it's a close tradeoff. For me, it's all about the torque for towing. The better mileage and low emissions is better for the environment too if that is your thing.

- Sean

[bimmer_buachaill]

Originally Posted by Quicksilver

Lot's of threads devoted to the pro's and cons regarding this choice. In the final analysis though the customers are going to decide if it's worth it to embrace the technology despite the cost.

It is indeed the customer's choice at the end of the day. Interestingly, JD Power & Associates said that diesel for passenger cars will jump from 3% in 2007 to 14% by 2017. That's 1% of additional purchasers moving to diesel every year. Not a crazy shift but certainly a trend that will improve resale values of diesels bought now.

Given BMW's history with diesel, they will be one of the companies that does this better than anyone else:
http://www.bmwusa.com/Standard/Conte...cedDiesel.aspx

Like you said, I'm looking at diesel for multiple reasons but mostly torque and emissions. Really looking forward to seeing pricing - hoping BMW will not be aggressive in order to establish a diesel market for their cars here.

[rh71]

Cost aside, will there be a guinea-pig factor in this considering it had to be tuned to US spec and is not identical to the current 3.0sd? Diesel fuel is diesel fuel but what about the urea and all that other good stuff?

[bimmer_buachaill]

Originally Posted by rh71

Cost aside, will there be a guinea-pig factor in this considering it had to be tuned to US spec and is not identical to the current 3.0sd? Diesel fuel is diesel fuel but what about the urea and all that other good stuff?

This is why I think I'll lease and decide to buy or turn-in after 3 years. Not the cheapest way but lower risk.