Maybe not the most accurate nor appropriate vehicle comparison, but Top Gear’s latest episodes gives us a reason to bring the new BMW X5 M on the front page.
While the regular X5 model is a direct competitor to the Audi Q7 and somewhat to the Range Rover, the Motorsport X5, that would be the X5 M, is absolutely out of the other two vehicles’ league, even when Top Gear throws is the top Audi Q7 model, V12 TDI, and the Range Rover
BMW X5 M is powered by a tuned up 4.4 liter V8 M engine delivering 555 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 5,650 rpm. The M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine is matted to a 6-Speed Steptronic automatic transmission that offers three driving modes: Normal (D), Sport (S), and M-Sport. Top speed is limited to 155 mph and runs 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds.
The Audi Q7 V12 TDI was developed by Audi’s Quattro GmbH high-performance division, and Audi even considered officially dubbing it an RS model. This 6.0-liter V-12 is completely new, but it shares components with Audi’s family of V-6, V-8, and V-10 engines. It produces 500 horsepower and 758 pound-feet of torque (1000 Nm). The crossover is capable of hitting 62 mph in 5.5 seconds, with a limited top speed of 155 mph. Maximum torque is available from just 1,750 rpm.
Range Rover, as Clarkson says, is heavier and slower than the German rivals. We’re not sure if he’s comparing the ride quality or the performance, but Top Gear refers the Rover as being the most comfortable from the group. It is powered by a 5.0 liter supercharged V8 with 510 horsepower and 461 lb/ft torque. 0-60mph in 5.9 sec.
Now, we’ll give them this, the LCD screen with dual-view based on the viewing angle is pretty neat.
So, let’s take a look at the videos ans see what “the anti-SUVs” Clarkson has to say.
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Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/12/08/top-g ... nge-rover/