Options first available
 

I've been targeting the 2011-2013 models due to the price, turbos and options. I have a couple questions about when certain options were first offered and with what option packages. I've been using BMWvin.com to review installed options on potential candidates. Obviously the more options the better. I'm really leaning towards the 3rd row as it will give us added flexibility when hauling offspring and their accomplices around.

When were rain sensing wipers added? I don't see them called out, so maybe they were bundled?

What about lane avoidance, sensors that would warn you if someone is in your blind spot?

I see most vehicles are tow-enabled but I assume you just need a hitch and additional wiring?

Thanks for all your answers!

As for the Rain Sensing Wipers those are standard equipment. The Tow Pack can be added with some modifications. As for the lane avoidance, I have no idea when that driver inattention BS was added. The 3rd row is great because you get load level suspension which is great for hauling and towing. The rear seats are a joke and not really good for anything but short trips, or small children. I have had 7 people in this truck at once. It was interesting to say the least. You will also come to appreciate the flexibility of the middle seat with the infinite adjustments available.

Yes, I have no delusions that the 3rd row would be for anything but small children.

What do you mean about the flexibility of the middle seat?

In cars with the 3rd row, the 2nd row slides fore and aft, reclines, and folds flatter than the standard 2nd row seat. Some argue that its isn't as well cushioned, and that may be true. But kids won't know the difference, and its still better than a kia.


LCI models get you the better iDrive, the option for adaptive cruise control, and if you get a gas engine, the 8spd transmission.

Beyond that, the changes are cosmetic.

So by LCI you mean the later in the model run (in this case 2013) the more standard features, or perhaps more options?

Yeah. LCI = Life Cycle Impulse. BMW jargon for facelift. Doesn't guarantee more features, but they're generally more current from a technical/option availability standpoint.

LCI break was in the middle of the model year 2011, early calendar year 2011.

Do you know the exact month?

I guess, the LCI model was actually 8/2009 production looking at it. I think in 2011 there was another improvement, facelift, whatever but it wasn't a LCI really. In 2011, LED headlights and improvements to the entertainment system and iDrive were added. August of the previous model year seems to be where you can get some of the improvements that might be coming on the next model year or where the crossover nearly takes place. I think I read that September is when BMW usually spools up for the next model year. I just know when I was shopping, I didn't want anything older than 8/2011 production and mine happens to also be a 2011 model year but must have been a late one. I don't remember the specifics but it had to do with certain little improvements and features that the late production model had over the older ones.

IN the US for 2010 the X5 got the better Idrive other than that it looks identical to the original 2011 LCI got the facelift and the Twin Scroll I-6 2012 they got the LED halos.