Up against the Audi Q7 and the Lexus RX400h, the BMW X5 3.0 diesel can cope with the most challenging terrain without compromising comfort, safety, style or performance.
The BMW X5 took out Australia’s Best Cars Award for best luxury four wheel drive in 2008 and is middle-priced amongst contenders in the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo and the Mercedes-Benz GL 500 which is well up into the one-fifties.
BMW’s xDrive system delivers full time all-wheel-drive and features variable power distribution that adapts to the environment. The xDrive system delivers optimum engine torque distribution between front and rear wheels which means the driver can focus on what’s ahead.
Australia’s Best Cars had this to say about the X5 diesel: “…on the tarmac, the X5′s passenger car lineage is unmistakable by its interior refinement. It delivers a composed ride and superlative handling – it scored the maximum 10 for handling.
The interior has a spacious and roomy ambience that will ensure all occupants are delivered to their destination in comfort and style, regardless of whether it’s cruising the sealed streets of the suburbs or tackling mountain ranges.
The 3.0-litre in-line-six diesel engine in X5 is a strong performer that uses common-rail technology to ensure the engine has remarkable performance and acceleration at all times. This engine produces 160kW of power at 4000rpm and an impressive 500Nm of torque at 2000rpm.
With a kerb weight of 2075kg, X5 achieved acceleration figures of 8.1 seconds from 0-100km/h. The combined fuel consumption figure of 8.7L/100km puts it not far behind the hybrid Lexus RX400h (8.1L/100km) and a long way in front of the second-placed Audi Q7 TDI quattro (10.5L/100km).
BMW’s six-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic function was a standout in all testing conditions, delivering fast and smooth gear shifts. Some may be a little critical of the electronic selector lever in place of the conventional mechanical T-bar, as this shift can be confusing at first glance, but within a short time you will become accustomed to the technology and never look back”
Overall, a very good wrap for the X5 diesel… well worth a closer look.
