BMW X5
Rating:
Now
in its second generation, the BMW X5 mixes chunky SUV looks with sharp
on road handling. It’s pricey when compared to rivals, but its mix of
desirability, build quality and driving dynamics still make it a
showroom favourite.
Image/Styling
BMW claims
that the X5 is a Sports Activity – rather than Utility – Vehicle. This
highlights the fact that the German company is targeting the lifestyle
market, rather than buyers of hardcore off-roaders. However, the car
gets trademark SUV design cues, giving it an imposing road presence. An
optional M Sport kit is available and adds bigger wheels, a bodykit and
stiffened sports suspension.
Interior/Practicality
Not
only is the X5 BMW’s first seven-seater, but also boasts the firm’s
largest luggage capacity – 1,750 litres with the rear bench folded
flat. While it’s roomier than the old car, it’s still no match for
rivals such as the Land Rover Discovery. Furthermore, the optional
third row of seats is expensive and offers cramped accommodation.
Thankfully, the rest of the cabin is spacious and solidly screwed
together.
Engine/Performance
Just three
engines are available – two petrol and one diesel. The 3.0-litre
oil-burner is available with either 232bhp or 282bhp, with the latter
able to sprint from zero to 60mph in just 7 seconds. Petrol fans can
choose the 3.0-litre straight six or thirsty 4.8-litre V8 motors. All
are strong performers, but the diesels offer the best mix of pace and
fuel economy and fall into VED Band F meaning an annual tax bill of
£210 - a saving of £190 over the petrol versions.
Driving Experience
The
powerful and heavyweight BMW is surprisingly agile in the bends.
Permanent four-wheel drive gives excellent traction, while strong
brakes provide powerful and fade-free stopping. Keen drivers can
specify the even stiffer M Sport suspension, although ride comfort
suffers. Wide, low profile tyres and road biased chassis set-up means
the X5 has limited off-road ability
Ownership Costs
The
X5 is expensive to buy and run. However, strong residuals take the
sting out of the high purchase price. You can expect the 3.0-litre
diesel to retain around 55 per cent of its value after three years. The
oil burner is also the least thirsty, returning 28.9mpg in our hands.
Servicing costs are expensive on all models. Even with BMW’s Service
Inclusive scheme you can expect to pay around 10 times more for regular
maintenance than the owner of a 1-Series.
Safety/Environment
You’ll
find all the safety kit you’d expect from a premium off-roader is
fitted to the X5. Airbags front and side for the driver and passenger,
ABS brakes, Dynamic Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, Dynamic
Brake Control and Cornering Brake Control all feature. Its hi-tech
electronics even automatically stabilise trailers if they begin to
sway! The heads up display is useful but pricey, but the adaptive
headlights are well worth the extra outlay.
Our Choice: X5 3.0sd SE
www.autoexpress.co.uk