NAIAS Highlights: Concepts
BMW's X5-based sporty concept
The aluminum-skinned BMW X coupe - based on the X5 chassis - puts a sportscar flavor to a concept vehicle that is suited to both on- and off-road driving.
The power source for the X coupe is a 3.0-L six-cylinder turbodiesel engine transplanted from the European 530d model. The engine, which uses common-rail direct fuel injection and nets 137 kW (184 hp) and 450 N•m (332 lb•ft), mates to a five-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.
The car is fitted with All Season Traction (AST) and features Dynamic Stability Control (DSC-X) and Hill Descent Control. (BMW has previously stated plans to develop a family of all-wheel-drive vehicles from the X5 platform.)
A rear spoiler, tucked beneath the bodywork, is flush with the vehicle's bottom rear edge. The spoiler extends downward automatically to generate aerodynamic down-force when vehicle speed reaches 109 km/h (68 mph). The X coupe rides on run-flat tires and 20-in wheels.
Brake lights are designed to indicate how hard the X coupe driver is braking. Light foot braking illuminates only the outer rings of the brake lights. As deceleration increases, illumination spreads inward. Under full braking, the entire brake light illuminates.
New headlamp technology makes the headlights steer with the wheels. Additional input from the GPS navigation system anticipates curves and adjusts the headlights accordingly.
- Kami Buchholz
