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The Boss has arrived in Malaysia

ADVERTORIAL

21 years ago, BMW introduced a new type of vehicle to the world. It was the BMW X5 which very quickly established itself as the best in the ever-expanding segment of dual-purpose vehicles. It introduced high performance in a segment that had up till then focused on ruggedness and off-road capability with compromises in on-road performance.

To be a true BMW, the X5 had to be the best in driving dynamics in all conditions, no compromises. The xDrive system gave this capability. Because it was superior to any other all-wheel drive (AWD) system, BMW designated the X5 as a Sport Activity Vehicle or SAV, rather than the utilitarian-sounding SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle).

The xDrive system of the BMW X5 adapts to all types of surfaces and terrain. On the hard and smooth highway, it maximizes grip and stability when cornering at high velocities. When the road ends and the surface changes, the system intelligently manages torque flows to each wheel as required – almost instantaneously – to maximise grip on uneven ground, mud, sand and whatever else the X5 encounters.

Over four generations, the BMW X5 has held its commanding position as The Boss in its segment. Each generation has introduced new technologies, extending its capabilities. Powerful, yet nimble, the SAV term has been constantly justified.

Following on from the introduction of the latest G05 BMW X5 generation in Malaysia a year ago, the SAV range is now joined by the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid (or PHEV, for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). Like the BMW 5 Series and 7 Series PHEV models, the new BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid has the latest electrification technologies developed by BMW.

Its advanced hybrid powertrain, a major element in BMW’s electrification strategy, provides high performance while also promoting the eco-friendliness and sustainability. This is what today’s generation of customers expect to see in a product from a responsible and forward-thinking manufacturer.

The 3-litre straight six-cylinder petrol powerplant develops maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp at 5,000 to 6,000 rpm, with maximum torque of 450 Nm available between 1,500 and 3,500 rpm.

Battery technology, an area of constant advancement, is one which BMW has leadership in. More energy is packed into the lithium-ion battery pack to give the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid a generous range of travel. It can also run on emission-free electric propulsion for extended periods.

The versatility of the SAV concept has endeared the BMW X5 to a broad spectrum of customers, most of whom are in positions of leadership and influence, just like The Boss. No longer is there a need for a formal image in the choice of transport for such leaders; with the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid, the credentials endowed on the owner confirm leadership qualities that are essential to be The Boss.

Meet The Boss

The new BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid is at BMW showrooms nationwide, ready for a test-drive. Or immerse yourself in the X5 Plug-in Hybrid experience with Augmented Reality (AR) in the comfort and safety of your home. Log on with your mobile device at this link: https://app.bmw.com.my/AR/X5/

Buy like A Boss

– Enjoy added peace of mind with 8 Years/160,000 kms of Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Battery Warranty for any BMW Plug-in Hybrid model.

– Stand a chance to win a BMW i8 Coupe when you book a new BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid online on BMW Shop Online.

Don’t keep The Boss waiting.

BMW to offer Fully Digital Key with iPhone in 45 countries

BMW will become the first carmaker to enable its customers to offer a fully digital car key, using Apple’s iPhone. Stored securely in the Apple Wallet for iPhone, car owners can just tap to unlock and easily get going by placing the iPhone in the smartphone tray and pushing the start button.

The owner can also share access with up to 5 friends including a configurable car access option for young drivers which restricts top speed, engine power, maximum radio volume and more. Management of access can be done from inside the car as well as through Apple Wallet.

Additional features of the new Digital Key include storage in the Secure Element of the iPhone; power reserve for iPhone where car keys will still function for up to 5 hours if the iPhone turns off due to low battery; and Apple Watch compatibility.

BMW is a leading contributor
The BMW Group is a leading contributor to the Digital Key standard. It was quick to recognise the potential of smartphones as digital keys – if done right. Standardizing the Digital Key contributes to user experience, security and availability in smartphone models all of which were key to the BMW Group strategy for the Digital Key right from the start.

Apple and BMW have been working closely with the Car Connectivity Consortium to press ahead with the establishment of global standards. The Digital Key specification 2.0 for NFC was released in May 2020 while the next generation of Digital Key using Ultra Wideband technology is already well underway.

The BMW Digital Key for iPhone will be available in 45 countries for a broad range of models manufactured after July 1, 2020. Compatible iPhone models will be iPhone XR, iPhone XS or newer and Apple Watch Series 5 or newer.

The BMW Digital Key follows other firsts for the brand, such as integration of the iPod in their vehicles and the first manufacturer to offer wireless CarPlay connectivity.

Smart Routes for BMW EVs
Also announced at the Apple Worldwide Developer Conference recently was Smart Routes for BMW electric vehicles in Apple Maps. This is a new feature (to be available in the new i4 in 2021) that will make it easier than ever for CarPlay users to take BMW electric vehicles on longer journeys by automatically taking into account when and where to charge.

Drivers can plan their trip in advance on their iPhone or simply enter their destination through Apple CarPlay when they get into the car. Either way, Apple Maps will pick the optimal route based on electric range and the locations of charging stations along the way.

BMW Shop Online and BMW Engage digitalise premium ownership experience

BMW caters to extravagance with the 8-Series Edition Golden Thunder

‘Golden Thunder’ is not the title of a new Chinese movie but the name of a special edition of the BMW 8-Series created by BMW Individual. Available for three body variants, its extravagant enhancement is in the form of specific design accentuations in gold along with high-end BMW Individual equipment features for both the exterior and interior.

The 8-Series Edition Golden Thunder is said to be for ‘customers with the very highest expectations in terms of style and quality’. The exclusive enhancements give the edition models the character of a custom-built vehicle.

Available for all model variants – coupe, convertible and Gran Coupe – the M sports package is also a standard feature in the range which covers the 840i and 840d xDrive through to the M850i xDrive.

A body finish in Sapphire Black metallic or Frozen Black metallic and carefully selected colour accentuations in gold give a distinct appearance. The dark look is supplemented by BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line with extended features and black brake calipers for the M sports brake system.

A striking contrast is created by means of golden accentuation lines running from the front apron to the side skirts and on into the rear apron. Other features finished in gold are the exterior mirror caps, the M rear spoiler (exclusively available for the 8-Series Coupe) and the 20-inch M light alloy wheels in double-spoke design.

Sportscar flair and individual luxury are also combined in the interior of the edition models to create an extravagant ambience. This is created by the extended BMW Individual Merino leather trim in black with the ‘Edition Golden Thunder’ inscription embroidered on the front headrests and the BMW Individual Alcantara Anthracite roofliner for the Coup and Gran Coupe, but in particular by the interior trim finishers in Aluminium Mesh Effect Gold.

On the centre console, the finely structured and high-end shimmering surfaces are supplemented with an edition emblem. The edition models also feature CraftedClarity glass applications for selected controls and the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System.

The Edition cars will be produced at the BMW plant in Dingolfing, Germany from September 2020.

‘The Boss’ gets electrified with the new BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport

‘The Boss’ gets electrified with the new BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport

Following on from the launch of the G05 BMW X5 a year ago, BMW Malaysia has now added an electrified variant – the X5 xDrive45e M Sport – to the range. Excluding insurance premium and with the 10% Sales Tax exemption as the model is assembled locally in Kedah, the retail price is RM440,745.

The bestselling model of BMW’s SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) range worldwide, the X5 has accounted for more than 25% of the X range sold in Malaysia with over 3,000 units delivered. The latest electrified variant has the same larger proportions of the current generation which is the fourth X5 since the model line was launched in 1999.

Additionally, it has slim Adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective Beam and front LED foglights and the M Sport package. This package includes 20-inch M light alloy wheels in Star Spoke style 740 M Bicolour, along with the signature M Sport brake.

Powering the X5 xDrive45e M Sport is a 3-litre 6-cylinder engine with BMW eDrive technology. With a combined maximum output of 394 bhp/ 600 Nm, the new SAV is claimed to have a top speed of 235 km/h and a 0 to 100 km/h capability of 5.6 seconds.

Running with just the electric motor, the claimed range can be up to 77 kms on a fully charged lithium-ion battery pack, with a top speed of 135 km/h. With the hybrid powertrain optimising fuel efficiency, the fuel consumption is said to be up to 40 kms/litre.

All X5s have all-wheel drive (except for one variant specifically for the US market) which is provided by BMW’s proven xDrive system. Power delivery first goes through a revised 8-speed Steptronic transmission with enhanced shift dynamics and then to all four wheels with torque distribution according to grip and surface conditions. The X5 xDrive45e M Sport is now also equipped with the 2-axle air suspension on the front and rear axles, maximising its dynamic ability and comfort.

Inside the SAV
The highlight of the X5 xDrive45e M Sport is the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with Gesture Control and Intelligent Personal Assistant. This infotainment system combines a 12.3-inch Fully Digital Instrument Display with an equally large touchscreen Control Display. Rear passengers have the Rear Seat Entertainment Professional with a 10.2-inch touchscreen monitor.

The cockpit has Vernasca leather upholstery and like other M Sport versions, comes with the M leather-wrapped steering wheel (with electric adjustment) and Sport front seats. 4-zone automatic air conditioning distributes cool air throughout the cabin efficiently while the 464W 16-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound audio system provides superior sound reproduction.

Depending on how much cargo has to be carried on board, the capacity of the boot can be varied from 500 litres with all seats in use to 1,720 litres at maximum. Automatic operation of the split tailgate with contactless opening and closing functions makes loading easier. The top section can be opened electrically, while the bottom section is released manually.

Advanced driver aids
Next-level driving assistance is offered via the BMW Personal CoPilot. This includes the Lane Departure Warning and Lane Changing Warning. The system also features the Frontal Collision Warning with braking intervention, Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Rear Collision Prevention as well as information on speed limits.

Additionally, the new SAV is equipped with the intelligent Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera, along with the Reversing Assistant. This makes manoeuvring in and out of a parking spot and also reversing in tight spaces much easier and safer. The Reversing Assistant can also assist to reverse out from a parking spot or tight spaces by taking over the steering.

Colour offerings for this new variant include Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Mineral White and Artic Grey. They are complemented with interior upholstery of Leather ‘Vernasca’ design perforations in black and a fine-wood trim ‘Fineline Stripe’ with brown high-gloss.

2020 BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport — *The X5 xDrive45e M Sport with additional M Performance Genuine Parts and Accessories*

As an added option, the exterior appearance can be enhanced with BMW M Performance Genuine Parts and Accessories. The items available include a front air inlet, exterior mirror cap, front and rear winglets, and rear diffuser in carbonfibre. Side decals and side skirt films in Frozen Black are also available, as well as wheels in Star Spoke Jet Black Matte.

Buying the new X5
With the Balloon Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, the X5 xDrive45e M Sport can be owned with a monthly instalment plan starting from RM5,028.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a 5-year tenure).

Every X5 owner will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes a 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme, 8-Year/160,000-km Battery Warranty (whichever comes first), 2-Year/24 Month Tyre Warranty Programme (for Run Flat Tyres), BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Support, BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card, and BMW Service Online.

The X5 xDrive45e M Sport will be in showrooms of all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from June 20, 2020. Alternatively, from the comfort of the home, interested customers can visit BMW Shop Online for information and to make a booking.

BMW Group Malaysia extends BMW and MINI PHEV battery pack warranties

MINI and BMW prices with Sales Tax exemption

2020 BMW PRICES X SALES TAX — Note: Prices are for private registration and do not include insurance premiums and PUSPAKOM inspection charges. Tax exemption (until December 31, 2020) only applicable to 2020 models – 5% for imported CBU models, 10% for locally-assembled CKD models.

BMW 7-Series — *Most expensive BMW model assembled locally – the 740LE xDrive – is almost RM30,000 cheaper when no Sales Tax is included.*

2020 MINI PRICES X SALES TAX — Note: Prices are for private registration and do not include insurance premiums and PUSPAKOM inspection charges. Tax exemption (until December 31, 2020) only applicable to 2020 models – 5% for imported CBU models, 10% for locally-assembled CKD models.

Sime Darby Motors offers multiple brands under corporate programme

Sime Darby Motors has a wide range of brands in its retail and distribution portfolio for the Malaysian market. These Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Hyundai, BMW, MINI, Motorrad and Volvo. To cater to the needs of corporate clients, the company is having an ‘Unbelievable Deals’ campaign. a corporate programme providing special privileges with very attractive cost of ownership and exceptional benefits.

This campaign is applicable across all the brands to suit different requirements. “This programme is specially curated to reward our loyal customers across Sime Darby Motors Malaysia. As exhilarating as it is rewarding, we aim to offer our customers with irresistible deals whilst ensuring their sales and aftersales needs are cared for by our passionate professionals who are dedicated in providing world-class services that exceed expectations,” said Jeffrey Gan, MD of Retail & Distribution, Malaysia.

Ford showroom — *The different brands represented by Sime Darby Motors offer a variety of vehicle types from Ford pick-ups to premium sedans like the Jaguar XF (below)*

“The automotive industry is moving towards a more digital environment to fit with the needs of our consumers. Our operating units are continuously innovating to find new ways of digitalising the car-buying process; from digital showrooms and door-step test drives to contactless servicing and eventually delivering customers’ cars to their doorsteps. The digital transformation in the automotive industry is certainly opening up new opportunities for us,” he explained.

On the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Gan said the company takes the current situation very seriously. “We stand guided by the government’s policy, with the safety and health of our employees, customers and business partners being our utmost priority,” he explained.

More information on the corporate programme is available at the individual websites of the respective brands.

BMW Group Malaysia extends BMW and MINI PHEV battery pack warranties

BMW Group Malaysia has been a driving force in electrified vehicles for many years. This mirrors its global electrification initiatives not just in products but also in related activities such as battery pack manufacturing. It’s therefore not surprising that many of the BMWs on the roads are electrified, with plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The cost of battery packs replacement has been a concern of many owners who buy hybrids and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Though designed to last a long time, the battery packs might have problems and the cost of replacement can be high as they are specialised and sophisticated units, not like the common small lead-acid battery in the engine bay.

*BMW battery pack is sophisticated and advanced energy storage system, which is why it costs a lot to replace.*

To provide peace of mind to owners, the BMW and MINI brands in Malaysia now offer an extended PHEV battery warranty programme. This new programme extends – by an additional 2 years or 60,000 kms – the existing programme to 8 years or a maximum of 160,000 kms.

*BMW 740LE XDrive – one of the electrified PHEV models in Malaysia*

The New Battery Warranty Programme is also available as an extension via the BMW and MINI Aftersales Upgrade Programmes for the BMW 330e, BMW X5 xDrive 40e, BMW 530e and MINI Countryman PHEV at RM2,200 as well as for the BMW 740Le at RM7,600.

However, this PHEV Battery Warranty Programme is available only from now until December 31, 2020.

Production of High-Voltage Batteries for BMW Hybrid Vehicles underway in Thailand

First look at the new updated BMW 5-Series

First introduced in 1972, with worldwide sales of the current generation reaching 600,000 units since 2016.

Sales launch of new updated 5-Series in Europe from July 2020.

Newly designed BMW kidney grille with slimmer LED headlights. Adaptive LED Matrix technology and BMW Laserlight also available.

Three-dimensional sculpted rear lights, all variants now have trapezoidal exhaust tailpipe finishers.

Light-alloy wheels in 18 to 20-inch sizes; 20-inch BMW Individual Air Performance Wheels available as an option for the first time.

Dashboard now has optional 12.3-inch Control Display (10.25-inch Control Display now standard). Seventh generation iDrive system.

Sensatec perforated trim variant for the seat surfaces and High-Gloss Black for controls on centre console.

Introduction of new 48V mild hybrid technology for all 4 and 6-cylinder engines; 48V starter-generator with 8 kW/11 bhp power spike to both lighten the combustion engine’s workload and boost power.

Further developed BMW TwinPower Turbo technology in 4 and 6-cylinder petrol engines with optimised petrol injection. All diesel engines now with two-stage turbocharging.

Optional Integral Active Steering offers greater assistance in low-speed manoeuvring, new version of chassis system now also available for plug-in hybrid models.

New driver assistance systems and extended functions. Optional Driving Assistant Professional now includes Active Navigation with the help of the Lane Change Assistant, automatic formation of emergency lane and junction warning (now with city braking) functions. 3D visualisation of the surrounding area shows traffic situations and possible interventions by the driver assistance systems in the instrument cluster.

New BMW Drive Recorder records up to 40 seconds of video footage from points around the vehicle.

BMW Operating System 7 opens up a host of potential new applications and connectivity options, as well as extended personalisation.

VARIANTS AVAILABLE (depending on market)

BMW 530e Sedan (BMW 530e xDrive Sedan)
4-cylinder petrol engine, plug-in hybrid. 1998 cc, 184 bhp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm, 300 Nm at 1,350 – 4,000 rpm. Combined system output: 292 bhp/420 Nm,8-speed Steptronic transmission, (BMW xDrive)

BMW 530e Touring (BMW 530e xDrive Touring)
4-cylinder petrol engine, plug-in hybrid. 1998 cc, 184 bhp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm, 300 Nm at 1,350 – 4,000 rpm. Combined system output: 292 bhp/420 Nm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, (BMW xDrive)

BMW 545e xDrive Sedan
6-cylinder in-line petrol engine, plug-in hybrid system. 2998 cc, 210 kW/286 hp at 5,000 – 6,000 rpm, 450 Nm at 1,500 – 3 500 rpm. Combined system output: 394 hp/600 Nm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, BMW xDrive.

BMW 520i Sedan
4-cylinder petrol engine with mild hybrid technology. 1998 cc, 184 bhp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm, 290 Nm at 1,350 – 4 250 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission

BMW 520i Touring
4-cylinder petrol engine with mild hybrid technology. 1998 cc, 184 bhp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm, 290 Nm at 1,350 – 4 250 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission

BMW 530i Sedan (BMW 530i xDrive Sedan)
4-cylinder petrol engine with mild hybrid technology. 1998 cc, 252 bhp at 5,200 – 6,500 rpm, 350 Nm at 1,450 – 4,800 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, (BMW xDrive)

BMW 530i Touring (BMW 530i xDrive Touring)
4-cylinder petrol engine with mild hybrid technology. 1998 cc, 252 bhp at 5,200 – 6,500 rpm, 350 Nm at 1,450 – 4,800 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission (BMW xDrive)

BMW 540i Sedan (BMW 540i xDrive Sedan)
6-cylinder in-line petrol engine with mild hybrid technology. 2998 cc, 333 bhp at 5,500 – 6,250 rpm, 450 Nm at 1,600 – 4,800 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission (BMW xDrive)

BMW 540i xDrive Touring
6-cylinder in-line petrol engine with mild hybrid technology, 2998 cc, 333 bhp at 5,500 – 6,250 rpm, 450 Nm at 1,600 – 4,800 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission (BMW xDrive)

BMW M550i xDrive Sedan
V8 petrol engine. 4395 cc, 530 bhp at 5,500 – 6,000 rpm, 750 Nm at 1 800 – 4 600 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, BMW xDrive.

BMW 520d Sedan (BMW 520d xDrive Sedan)
4-cylinder diesel engine with mild hybrid technology. 1995 cc, 190 bhp at 4,000 rpm, 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, (BMW xDrive).

BMW 520d Touring (BMW 520d xDrive Touring)
4-cylinder diesel engine with mild hybrid technology. 1995 cc, 190 bhp at 4,000 rpm, 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, (BMW xDrive).

BMW 530d Sedan (BMW 530d xDrive Sedan)
6-cylinder in-line diesel engine with mild hybrid technology. 2993 cc, 286 bhp at 4,000 rpm, 650 Nm at 1,500 – 2,500 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, (BMW xDrive).

BMW 530d Touring (BMW 530d xDrive Touring)
6-cylinder in-line diesel engine with mild hybrid technology. 2993 cc, 286 bhp at 4,000 rpm, 650 Nm at 1,500 – 2,500 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, (BMW xDrive).

BMW 540d xDrive Sedan
6-cylinder in-line diesel engine with mild hybrid technology. 2993 cc, 340 bhp at 4,000 rpm, 700 Nm at 1,750 – 2,250 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, (BMW xDrive).

BMW 540d xDrive Touring
6-cylinder in-line diesel engine with mild hybrid technology. 2993 cc, 340 bhp at 4,000 rpm, 700 Nm at 1,750 – 2,250 rpm, 8-speed Steptronic transmission, (BMW xDrive).

Click here for other news and articles about BMW.

BMW Shop Online and BMW Engage digitalise premium ownership experience

Along with MINI Malaysia, BMW Group Malaysia has also introduced new online platforms – the BMW Shop Online and BMW Engage – as a way to digitalise the premium ownership experience for customers in Malaysia. This is particularly useful at this time with the Movement Control Order (MCO) restricting customers from visiting showrooms.

BMW Engage, a first-of-its-kind online financing platform introduced by BMW Credit (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., complements the BMW Shop Online. It provides a contactless experience, enabling customers to apply and get pre-approval for their financing requirements from the comfort of their home via a simple and seamless application process.

With the new online touchpoints, the company is also driving its ‘Unplug & Play’ campaign with online-exclusive offers for the BMW 530e Sport and BMW 530e M Sport. This campaign aims to increase the uptake of electrified vehicles in the country.

The ‘Unplug & Play’ online-exclusives for the 530e can also be found on BMW Shop Online with cash rebates from RM10,000 and RM20,000 for the 530e Sport and 530e M Sport, respectively. Additionally, there is an interest rate of 0% for both models. New owners will also receive a complimentary BMW i Wallbox when booking the 530e Sport online. Customers taking up the offer will be in the running to drive home an i8 Coupe.

Online booking of both the models gets new owners a BMW ChargeNow card, that grants straightforward access to partner charging stations like ChargEV by Malaysian Green Technology Corporation. With the, owners can enjoy 24/7 support and access to all charging locations in ChargEV’s growing network which now offers more than 270 charging facilities nationwide. New owners of the BMW 530e M Sport will also receive the BMW i AC Fast Charging Cable.

*Customers who make online bookings for the 530e Sport and 530e M Sport have a chance to win one BMW i8 Coupe.*

The online-exclusive offer is available from now until June 30 2020. Customers can make bookings for the 530e Sport and 530e M Sport with just RM1,000 via the BMW Shop Online. For financing pre-approval before shopping, they can visit BMW Engage.

2020 BMW X6 xDrive40i M Sport arrives in Malaysia – online

2020 BMW X6 xDrive40i M Sport arrives in Malaysia – online

For the first time in Malaysia, BMW has unveiled its latest model online via its new BMW Shop Online portal. The model to have this honour is the latest BMW X6 xDrive40i M Sport which is the third generation of the pioneering Sports Activity Coupe (SAC).

As with its predecessor, the new X6 has a bold, expressive design language which gives it a dominant presence on the road. It has grown in overall length (+ 26mm), width (+15 mm) and wheelbase (+42 mm) but the roofline is now 6 mm closer to the road.

A key element of the front design is the large kidney grille with ‘Iconic Glow’ illumination, with both halves framed by a common surround. The characteristic, slim twin BMW Laserlights with high-beam assistant and LED foglights underscore the vehicle’s width and road presence. The wheelarches are shaped in a slightly hexagonal shape.

The version officially imported to Malaysia has the stylish BMW Individual Exterieur Line in aluminium satinated and roof rails in aluminium satinated. At the rear, full-LED 3-dimensional taillights are formed in the familiar BMW L-shape, along with Air Breathers as well.

The M Sport package consists of a M Sport exhaust system, M Sport brake, Adaptive M Suspension and 21-inch M light alloy wheels in Y-spoke style 741 M Bicolour with mixed and runflat tyres.

The driver of the new X6 has 340 bhp/450 Nm available from the formidable 3-litre 6-cylinder powerplant under the long bonnet. This gives a 0 to 100 km/h time claimed to be 5.5 seconds and if not for a limiter, the top speed can be above 250 km/h. Power delivery to all four wheels starts from an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and flows through the BMW xDrive system.

As a SAC, the X6 possesses superior driving dynamics on and also off-road (if the owner chooses to detour from the highway). The double-wishbone front suspension, and 5-link rear suspension have Dynamic Damper Control as standard, while the Driving Experience Control system provides a choice of a sporty or comfort-focused set-up.

The interior has been reconfigured and represents a modern reinterpretation of the classic, driver-focused BMW cockpit. Superlative workmanship and premium materials are evident throughout with Vernasca leather upholstery included as standard. The M leather-wrapped steering wheel is also standard, along with sports front seats. Rear passengers get moulded single-seats with automatic air-conditioning and 4-zone control ensuring that everyone will be comfortable.

The two-part panoramic glass roof, now 83% larger, giving a more spacious ambience. The rear backrest has a 40/20/40-split folding function so there’s flexibility in carrying people or cargo, with the possibility of expanding boot volume from 580 litres to 1,530 litres.

BMW’s Live Cockpit Professional is standard too and, combined with the Head-Up Display, Gesture Control and Intelligent Personal Assistant, the driver has comprehensive and efficient communication with the car.

BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes a 12.3-inch Instrument Display, customisable instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen Control Display. Rear passengers also get two 10-inch touchscreen displays.

Other standard features of the new X6 include the BMW Display Key, Wireless Charging, along with the BMW Connected Package Professional with Teleservices, Intelligent Emergency Call and Apple CarPlay.

Finally, there’s a choice of 6 exterior colours (Manhattan, Artic Grey, Riverside Blue, Carbon Black, Mineral White and Flamenco Red), paired with design-perforated BMW Leather ‘Vernasca’ in either Black (for all pairings) or Tacora Red (not available for Manhattan and Riverside Blue pairings).

Now available at the BMW Shop Online for RM729,800 (without insurance), the new X6 can be booked for RM5,000. Those who take financing from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia can choose monthly instalment plans starting from RM 8,328.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a 5-year tenure).