BMW X5 3.0d

By Bruce McMahon
The Courier-Mail
14 November 2007

Photo Gallery

Third round finalist: BMW X5 3.0d is a real presence on the road.

Check out the video below!

BMW'S second-generation X5 wagon is a rework of a successful format, a combination of soft-road abilities and good on-road dynamics wrapped up in a prestige package.

The restyled X5 is bigger, allowing for the option of seven seats, and with a number of engine-transmission-chassis refinements, which ensure the wagon remains a competent and comfortable back roads tourer.

The BMW has amazing poise and performance for a high-riding two-tonne machine and pick of the bunch (again) as a touring wagon is the 3.0-litre diesel-powered X5.

It is a pity then that some new technology showcased here - the run-flat tyres, the iDrive controls, the “keyless” ignition and fancy transmission lever - do not always lend themselves to long distance runs down outback tracks.

Snapshot

BMW X5 3.0d

price: $86,800

Engine: 3.0L/6-cylinder turbodiesel, 160kW/500Nm

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Economy: 8.7L/100km

And from previous experience the new generation X5 may not be as dustproof as the first.

For all the latest on the carsguide Car Of The Year each week go to www.carsguide.com.au/caroftheyear

Comments on this story

Displaying 3 of 5 comments

Looks very nice however I hope there is a better colour choice than that horrid champagne and the silver colours, even white would look better than those two colours, I also would not be interested in taking a vehicle such as that off road, How about towing capabilities with fuel economy whilst towing with the diesel.
Ashley Hart of Warrnambool Posted on 08 April 2008 10:34pm
Alright, its absolutely beautiful.
But do they realise that maybe some of us dont want to be driving cars that are getting bigger and bigger. Regardless of fuel consumption.

And personally, I think the top of the range models need to follow Audi’s footsteps and include adjustable air suspension. Or just any adjustable suspension.
Tom Rivera of Brisbane Posted on 12 January 2008 12:01pm
Great car - would love one - but just try and buy one for $86,800! You'd be lucky to get one for under $100k on the road!
Steve Posted on 23 November 2007 6:58pm
I love the inside and outside, there should have been more pictures of the inside, the others I looked at had anywhere from 13 to 17 pictures this one had only 7. We own a 740il BMW if this one is anything like ours then it's a winner in my book. With it being a wagon you can't go wrong with the extra space. Who in there right mind would take a vehicle that cost $86.800 on an outback excursion you would have to be mental! if you feel you have to go into the bush or outback I suggest getting getting a older model 4x4, and save a beautiful vehicle. As far as the dust maybe its as simple as putting on a double or thicker door seal. I would love to have wagon like that!! I do hope that its not necessary for you to edit this, if feel I am just stating my opinion. Cheers, Linda Linda
Linda Hudspeth Posted on 22 November 2007 3:49pm
Can someone from CARSguide explain why the Jack Of All Trades (master of none) X5 gets a COTY guernsey? Even the official COTY summary questions the vehicle's suitability for long-distance soft-roading (ie. 'all weather' gravel)! At the same time, the X5's raised ride height compromises its on-road handling, so it falls well short of BMW's own 'ultimate driving pleasure' criterion as well. CARSguide's COTY has no credibility as long as the finalists include a car that fails any objective test of its intended function.
'Morris Dancer' (freelance 4WD journalist) Posted on 22 November 2007 1:26pm

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