BMW X5 30d 2014 Review

BMW's new X5 is a big bugger, bigger than we recall the previous two models were but it's not unexpected from a vehicle built in the US where they make 'em to accommodate possibly the largest humans in the world. Our drive vehicle just fitted on the driveway and into the garage at home.

It's what you want in a family vehicle, albeit, a luxury one priced at a snip under $100 grand for the X5 30d we drove last week. This is the third generation X5 in about 15 years.

The boffins at BMW have refined the look of the beast but it's still instantly recognisable as an X5. They included some really clever technology like "air curtains" that alter the frontal aerodynamics to reduce drag and boost fuel economy. The bulky Bimmer has evolved into a benchmark vehicle and one of the most popular models this side of town.

FEATURES

The latest model boasts a truckload of new technology to boost performance, fuel efficiency, ride control and comfort, luxury, safety and drive feel. We also particularly approve of the rear view camera and 360 degree surround view camera – should be mandatory on all SUVs.

And they put in plenty of kit including what's called BMW Individual exterior treatment, 19-inch alloys, Connected Drive which links with all current mainstream digital equipment, bi-xenon headlights, LED fog lights, leather interior, high beam assist, head up display and a whole suite of driver assist stuff like lane departure warning and forward collision mitigation. Engine stop/start is also featured.

ENGINE / TRANSMISSION

The 30d will probably be the most popular X5 as it offers the best value and excellent performance and dynamics. Power comes from a turbo diesel straight six with variable geometry turbo technology to achieve 190kW/560Nm output while sipping a possible 6.2-litres/100km.

This, mind you, in a 2.0-tonne large SUV that can take five passengers and their gear in luxury for 1000km plus without a fuel stop. Wow, that's impressive.

DRIVING

Equally outstanding is the vehicle's performance which sees a 0-100kmh sprint clocked in 6.9 seconds but more importantly, super strong roll on acceleration on the move, even if you're in the Eco-Pro mode.

You can choose from Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Eco-Pro, each with a different set of calibrations for various functions of the vehicle. This is all capably harnessed by the silky shifting eight-speed auto transmission with paddle shift. The xDrive full time all-wheel drive system apportions power to the wheels with most traction.

Owners will  appreciate the large format readout screen with Professional satnav, internet and hi-fi audio controls among a myriad of technology. In practical terms, the X5 doesn't disappoint with easy fold rear seats, numerous storage options in the cabin, a tight turning circle for such a large vehicle and other goodies. Any negatives? Not many, we even liked the iridescent brown duco coupled with cream leather inside. Sexy.