BMW 03

BMW Group Malaysia has announced that the F15 BMW X5 has now been locally-assembled, bringing about a slightly lower price and a moderate feature count boost. The range-topping Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), available in dealerships nationwide from August 30, is the 15th variant to be assembled at the Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah, and the second this year after the 3 Series Gran Turismo.

The range remains the same, with the diesel xDrive30d and petrol xDrive35i making up the lineup, but both models have been stuffed with a bit more kit. Firstly, the xDrive30d gets a third row, meaning that both models are now seven seaters. The diesel also gets a full-colour head-up display, previously only available on the more expensive model.

The range-topping xDrive35i on the other hand, adds a electric panoramic glass sunroof, as well as a rear-seat entertainment system comprising of two remotely-controllable 9.2-inch displays, with access to radio and navigation, as well as BMW Apps and Internet connectivity via BMW ConnectedDrive.

Finally, both cars get a suite of new safety features through the inclusion of the Driving Assistant package. These include Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning and City Collision Warning Mitigation. Elsewhere, the specifications look to remain the same.

So, how much do you save by punting for the CKD variants? Not much, actually. The xDrive30d is now priced at RM538,800, while the xDrive35i now retails at RM579,800, both RM19,000 less expensive than before. Both prices are on the road without insurance and include BMW Service + Repair Inclusive (BS+RI).