BMW’s all-new X5 will go on sale in the UK in the spring of 2007, a prestige SUV that is bigger, better equipped and powered by cleaner and more fuel-efficient engines. An increase in length and width has enabled BMW to offer an optional third row of seats in the new model, taking passenger capacity up to seven.

Replacing the original X5, launched in 1999, the American-built 4×4 is adopting more hi-tech features, including a head-up display, projecting key vehicle data on to the windscreen in front the driver; a rear parking camera with colour monitor; and run-flat tyres.

In the UK three engines will be available: six-cylinder 3.0-litre petrol and diesel units with 272 and 231hp respectively; and the established 355hp 4.8-litre V8 petrol. These will be matched to a new s