UPDATE - SEE THE PROMOTIONAL VIDEOS & READ THE OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE HERE: 2007 BMW X5

As reported from these pages a few days ago, BMW will reveal it's 2007 X5 model this week. But as I know a lot of you probably don't won't to sit around and wait for them, here they are: the first official pictures of Bimmer's all-new luxury SUV.

Judging from the pictures, BMW avoided "Bangling" up the X5's design which actually looks much better than the model it replaces -that's a first... Design aside, the most important thing on the E70 X5 is the fact that for the first time, BMW is offering an optional third row of seats (probably suitable for two children) which fold into the floor when not in use. With the two extra seats in their position, the X5's boot space is 200 litres (VDA) and while folded, 620 liters. If you want to fold the last two rows then you'll have a whole 1.750 liters of space to do as you please.

To fit the extra row of seats, the new X5 has grown in length and now measures 4.854 mm or 191 inches. In comparision, the previous X5 measured 4.677 mm or 183.7 inches in length. The 2007 E70 X5 is also 61 mm or 2,4 inches wider (1.933 mm or 76,1 inches) than the model it replaces.

In the interior, the 2007 BMW X5 obtains the new 5 Series dashboard which I hope will have better quality materials. The most eye-caching differences concern the double side air vents and the wider lower part of the centre console with the controversial i-Drive system. Rear passengers can get really cozy as BMW offers a DVD entertainment system equipped that come with a standard remote control -popcorn is not included.

Besides the i-Drive system, the all-new X5 also comes equipped with BMW's Active Steering, Head Up Display and a Park Assistant Radar System that includes rear view camera.

Power will be driven to all four wheels through BMW's latest generation xDrive 4wheel drive system. As for driving dynamics, BMW officials promise not only to maintain but to improve the current X5's excellent on-road manners.

UPDATED- In regards to the engine range, the new Bavarian SUV will be presented at the Paris Motor Show with two new petrol engines, the 272 Hp 3.0 6cylinder (0 to 100 km/h in 8,1 sec, top speed 225 km/h) and the 355 Hp 4.8 V8 (0 to 100 km/h in 6,5 sec, top speed 240 km/h) and one diesel, the 231 Hp 3.0 6cylinder (0 to 100 km/h in 8,3 sec, top speed 216 km/h). The engine range is expected to grow rapidly after the car starts its career in Europe and the USA in the beginning of 2007 .

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