Auto Car

As the 2011 X5 will be a refresh and not a redesign, the changes will be minor but should keep the ‘ute looking fresh. Up front we expect a slightly reworked front fascia, including a new bumper. The rear of the X5 will see a similar update, although rumors suggest the 2011 model will feature a one-piece hatch for the first time.

Inside the X5 should receive a few tweaks, but don’t expect anything radical. Powertrains will likely remain unchanged.

Look for the freshened X5 to debut at an upcoming auto show, with an on-sale date likely set for sometime in mid-2010 as a 2011 model.

Inside, sports seats with an electrically adjustable lumbar support provide a secure seating position for spirited driving. The seats are upholstered in a cloth/leather combination or in Fine Nappa leather, both of which feature an embossed S line logo. Available for the first time in the A5 is the new perforated Alcantara/leather upholstery, with the perforations in the seat centre section backed in contrasting silver.

Other typical S line items in the A5 include: the S line 3-spoke leather-covered sports steering wheel, inlays in matt brushed aluminum, and the S line logo on the door sill trims and front wings. Exclusive exterior colors include Misano Red and Avus Silver.

Characteristic features of the S line exterior package are distinctive front and rear bumpers and side ventilation grilles at the front. The diffuser insert at the rear and the central bar on the lower side of the front bumper are finished in platinum grey.

Pricing

Prices for a manual transmission A5 starts at $39,900 with the automatic transmission option raising the sticker to $41,200.