Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV (SAV - Sports Activity Vehicle in BMW terminology)
Competitors:
Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W164/W166), Lexus RX, Porsche Cayenne, Land Rover Discovery/Range Rover Sport
Design Philosophy:
Combines BMW's characteristic driving dynamics with the practicality and space of an SUV, emphasizing luxury, performance, and advanced technology.
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking a premium, versatile, and capable vehicle for both daily commuting and longer journeys, often with an appreciation for performance and German engineering.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, engine management (DME), turbocharger systems
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 6HP26, 8HP70), manual transmission (less common in E70, but covered if applicable), transfer case, differential, driveline
Electrical Systems:
Power distribution, starter, alternator, battery, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuse box diagrams, wiring harnesses, sensors
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear, adaptive systems), steering, brakes (ABS, DSC, braking system components), wheels, tires
Body Systems:
Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, sunroof, interior trim, seals, body structure, collision repair information
Comfort Systems:
HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), power seats, power tailgate, central locking, keyless entry, interior electronics
Infotainment Systems:
iDrive system, navigation, audio, communication modules, control units
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and replacements (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), spark plug replacement, belt inspections
Repair Procedures:
Complete engine overhaul, transmission repair and overhaul, brake component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers), suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit tracing, component testing
Disassembly And Reassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of major vehicle components
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Engine Options:
Multiple gasoline and diesel engines offered during the E70 production run, including: N62 V8 (4.8i), N52/N55 Inline-6 (3.0i, 35i), N57/M57 Inline-6 Diesel (30d, 35d, 40d). Specific engine variants vary by market and model year.
Typical Performance Range:
Horsepower typically ranges from approximately 255 hp (3.0i) to over 400 hp (e.g., X5 M or 4.8i/50i variants). Torque figures are similarly broad, especially with diesel options.
Injection Type:
Direct injection (DI) on many later models, port injection on earlier ones. Common Rail direct injection for diesel engines.
Dme:
Digital Motor Electronics (DME) for gasoline engines, Digital Diesel Electronics (DDE) for diesel engines. Complex systems with numerous sensors and actuators.
Overall Length:
Approximately 191.1 - 193.9 inches (depending on model year and specific variant)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 115.1 inches
Seating Capacity:
Standard 5-seater; optional 3rd-row seating available (7-seater configuration)
Cargo Volume:
Varies by configuration, typically around 25.0 - 29.0 cubic feet behind the second row, expandable with seats folded.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and options, generally ranging from approximately 4,700 to over 5,200 lbs.
NHTSA Rating:
Generally performed well in NHTSA crash tests, often achieving 4 or 5-star ratings in various categories (specific ratings may vary by year).
Driver Assistance:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), traction control, electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), hill descent control (HDC), optional adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane departure warning.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, side-impact airbags, head protection airbags (curtains) for front and rear occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cabin, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams.
Primary System:
BMW iDrive infotainment system, evolving through several iterations during the E70's lifespan. Features include navigation, audio, climate control, vehicle settings, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Advanced Options:
Available features included Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Head-Up Display (HUD), Surround View camera system, Active Steering, and Adaptive Drive (dynamic anti-roll bars and damping).
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB integration, optional SiriusXM satellite radio, and BMW Assist telematics.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes based on driving conditions, but general recommendations are around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Consult the manual for specific CBS reset procedures.
Brake Fluid Interval:
Typically every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Specification:
Requires BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30, depending on engine and climate. Specific viscosity grades are crucial and detailed in the manual.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue antifreeze/coolant (G48 specification) or equivalent. Never mix coolant types.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ZF fluid (e.g., LT-5 or its successor, depending on transmission generation) is required for automatic transmissions. Fluid and filter changes are critical maintenance items, typically recommended around 50,000-100,000 miles.
Common Problems Engine:
Valve cover gasket leaks, PCV system issues (especially on N62 V8), oil pan leaks, VANOS solenoids, ignition coil failures, some coolant leaks (e.g., thermostat housing, water pump).
Common Problems Transmission:
Mechatronic unit issues in automatic transmissions, torque converter wear, transmission fluid leaks.
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Air suspension compressor failures, strut leaks, control arm bushings wear, active steering system issues.
Common Problems Electrical:
Idrive system glitches, ABS/DSC module failures, battery drain issues, tailgate actuator failures.
Bmw SUV History:
The X5 was BMW's first foray into the SUV segment, introduced in 1999 (E53 generation), setting a precedent for 'SAV' vehicles that blend SUV utility with car-like handling.
E70 Generation:
The E70 generation, launched for the 2007 model year, represented a significant redesign over the E53. It featured a larger chassis, more advanced technology, and a greater emphasis on luxury and refinement. Introduced options like Active Steering and Adaptive Drive.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured at BMW's Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, USA, which is BMW's primary production facility for its X models.
