2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 15:44
The letter "S" stands for a special kind of sportiness across all classes. This is no different with the coveted SUVs. After the basic diesel and power eight-cylinder, BMW is adding an afterburner with double charging to the X5.
By Stefan Grundhoff
The highly praised register diesel with 210 kW / 286 PS has meanwhile found its way into large parts of the Bavarian model range. While many had expected the brawny eight-cylinder diesel from the 7 Series in the sporty BMW X5, shortly after the market launch, the developers waved them off emphatically and promised that high-torque all-purpose weapon that, with its six combustion chambers, causes the competition a lot of headaches. While the usual diesel-inclined crossover customers have had to be satisfied with the anything but weak entry-level diesel for the X5, you now have the choice between strong and strong - that is, 235 or 286 hp. The differences between the two three-liter engines are limited in the normal driving range.
In seven seconds to 100 km / h
Even the normal diesel engine offers impressive propulsion with its 500 Nm. After a small turbo lag, it pushes beefy. Thanks to the twin turbo with 580 Nm from 1750 rpm, the top-of-the-range model catapults its occupants even wilder, without the brute thrust of the elite eight-cylinder. Chassis and steering deliver the usual perfect BMW image - at least if you like it tight.
The mighty all-wheel drive manages the 0 to 100 km / h sprint in just under seven seconds. The brothers X5 3.0d and X5 3.0sd are on the same level in terms of average consumption. But for one as well as the other, the 8.1 and 8.2 liters of diesel factory specification per 100 kilometers come from the automotive realm of dreams. In real terms, the average thirst of the new athlete was between 10.2 and 10.7 liters. Still justifiable and can only be realized through braking energy recovery and the intelligent control of ancillary units.
Differences on the Autobahn
The real differences can only be seen on the autobahn and here only beyond the 160 mark. This is where the 3.0sd lives up to its name. Regardless of the 2.2 tonnes, the audible, but never annoying muscle man knows no limits. Excellent matched to the biting, harmonious six-speed automatic, the speedometer and tachometer push themselves deep into the right half of their cool scales. So the speed indicator stops the irrepressible urge for action only well after the 240 mark. For a six-cylinder diesel of this size, an almost frightening figure. But the firm chassis and the ambitious brakes let you be brave on the highway. It's even better with the optional "adaptive drive" roll preventer.
Rear camera disappointed
Along with the 2008 model year, there are small changes to the still fresh BMW X5. The comfort seats that were taken over for a long time from the old 7-series BMW are now equipped with new, larger active headrests. Unfortunately, the supports in the second row are still too small and cannot be extended far enough. Word got around that a reversing camera is a good thing not only since the introduction of some parking robots.
But if you see the cameras of the Asian competition, you will be bitterly disappointed with the screen and resolution of the southern German version. When engaging reverse, it takes too long before the picture appears and ensures safety. This is out of focus and almost useless in the dark or in the rain. Anyone who sees the magical eyes of Toyota, Audi, Lexus or Cadillac knows that normal parking assistance also works with the X5. You can safely save the extra charge of 420 euros.
Small six-cylinder sufficient
In general, the small six-cylinder should be more than sufficient for most customers. With the same basic engine, it is impressively attached to the gas and leaves no wish for more power in any driving condition. BMW can pay for the roughly 50 horsepower more power with a hefty 7,000 euros extra. The X5 3.0sd costs at least 59,500 euros. The 7,000 euros are in good hands for nice amenities such as heated leather seats, screen navigation and keyless entry. Compared to the weaker diesel, the X5 3.0sd also offers seat memory, root wood and xenon light as standard.
