BMW X5

Introduction:

BMW X5 has been around the market for more than 16 years now and it still a desirable SUV for families. Initially, it suffered with poor sales, but upgrades in regular intervals helped it to overcome its failure. In India, this vehicle is currently in its third generation and is available in a total of four variants. It is also displayed at the ongoing 2016 Delhi Auto Expo, where the manufacturer has introduced the locally manufactured version of xDrive30d M Sport. The vehicle remained to be unchanged and it comes powered by a 3.0-litre diesel motor. Is is really worth buying, is it suitable for a day-to-day activity? Lets explore the vehicle below.

Pros:

1. xDrive with intelligent 4WD technology enhances its off-roading capabilities.

2. Its on road performance is outstanding. It can easily outmatch its nearest rivals.

Cons:

1. The car still needs some more refinements to its exterior design.

2. Its third row cabin is suitable more for children rather than adults.

Standout features:

1. BMW Driving Experience Control with ECO PRO Coasting makes for an unparalleled driving experience.

2. A State-of-the-art iDrive touch with handwriting recognition system is one of its signature features.

Background and Evolution:

BMW X5, the mid-sized luxury SUV from German auto giant, was first launched in the year 1999. It is also the first SUV developed by BMW and was made available with an all-wheel drive mechanism. Its second generation model was introduced in the year 2006, but was kept away from India. This model was launched in India for the first time in the year 2014. Ever since, it received no major changes, except for some minor tweaks and updates.

Overview:

X5 has always been the front runner for BMW's SUV fleet. Despite heavy competition from the likes of Audi and Mercedes, it managed to break into the luxury SUV segment of India. Now, in its third generation, this mid-size luxury SUV is performing well with respect to sales in the country. Just a few months ago, a new variant has been added to this series code named M Sport, which happened to be a CBU. Now, the manufacturer has started to assemble it locally in India, helping it to be more competitive with respect to price range.

Exteriors:

The exterior design of this machine has been improved drastically over the years. Although, its shares the same design traits like its predecessor, it looks much more bolder and refreshing. This third generation model was introduced in 2013 and is yet to recieve a major cosmetic update. Its exterior design inherits the BMW design DNA, whcih makes it look more of a crossover from the frontage.

The headlight cluster on the front facade has a sharper design and is packed with adaptive LED headlights and LED DRLs. In the center, the kidney bean shaped radiator grille looks perfect in side and comes with vertical slats. They are garnished in chrome for a classy appeal.

The front bumper looks smaller in size, but has enough muscle to render a dynamic appeal to the frontage. The fog lamps have been positioned right below the headlamps that adds to its distinct appeal. The M Sport version on the other hand gets a different bumper featuring bigger air vents.

The side profile of the SUV exudes the sense of magnificence with its expressive crease lines and chrome inserts. Besides, its large fenders featuring alloy wheels renders it a bold and dynamic look.

The high end version in this series gets a set of 19 inch M light alloy wheels of double spoke design that brings the aura of a true SUV. They are wrapped in with a set of tubeless radial tyres of size 255/50 R19 for front and 285/45 R19 sized tyres at rear.

Its door handles and window sill surround gets a chrome garnish, while the outside mirrors are in a dual-tone finish, which further enhances its rich appeal.

The rear section of the vehicle is equally impressive as its front and sides. Its bold taillight cluster with signature lighting pattern brings the grace to this facet. It houses LED brake lights and turn blinkers and courtesy lights as well. Unlike the front bumper, the rear one looks bigger in size and it features two exhaust pipes along with reflectors for additional safety.

This SUV from BMW measures about 4886mm in length, 1762mm in overall height and 1938mm in total width. It also has a cargo volume of 650-litres.

Interiors:

The interiors of the vehicle are equally impressive as its exteriors. Soon after entering the cabin, you'll notice the use of premium grade materials with high quality fit and finish. A lavish and rich cabin is importance for any high-end luxury car and X5 delivers it quite well in this regard. This typical BMW SUV comes with seven seater capacity with better leg and shoulder room inside.

Its dashboard comes with a dual tone finish with Fine-wood trim Fine line textured finish that adds to the sophistication of the insides. Besides, there is an extensive use of high gloss black and metallic inserts that further compliments its exclusivity.

The steering wheel has a conventional three spoke design mounted with multi-functional switches and BMW logo. This steering wheel feels nice and premium in hand, thanks to its leather covering.

The center fascia of dashboard is mounted with an advanced infotainment system featuring 26cm color display. It also has a DVD player and an integrated hard-drive for maps and audio files. This system also features navigation that always helps you in choosing right direction.

Floor console in the cockpit houses an array of control switches, which are well within the reach of the driver. The gearshift selector with illumination is the highlight of the interiors. The floor console has a perfect finish and the veneers on it adds to the grace. 

The second row seats are in bench format that can accommodate three passengers. However, the third row can house only two passengers. Like mentioned above, it is more suitable for children.

Its front seats on the other hand are far more comfortable thanks to their ergonomic design. They are designed with side bolsters and support that aids in providing unparalleled comfort to the occupants.

Despite of certain shortcomings, this BMW X5 lives upto the expectations of customers, especially with regards to the comfort and lavishness. However, on the design front, it needs some more upgrades to match its rivals.

Performance :

Diesel :

This stunning machine gets a 3.0-litre diesel engine that is powerful, efficient and has displacement capacity of 2993cc. This TwinPower turbo motor comes with state-of-the-art fuel injection technologies that aids in improved fuel economy. On the highways, it gives you approximately 15.97 Kmpl, which is quite good compared to what its rivals offer. This six cylinder motor can produce a maximum power of 258bhp at 4000rpm and delivers torque output of 560Nm ranging between 1500 to 3000rpm. In a mere 6.9 seconds, the machine crosses the 100 Kmph speed mark, while achieving an impressive top speed of 230 Kmph. Mated to this mill is an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission gear box that transmits power to all its wheels.

Ride and Handling

This huge machine runs smooth and remains stable no matter on which terrain you drive it. The adaptive suspension package 'Comfort' ensures high level of comfort irrespective of the road conditions. Also, with the BMW Driving Experience Control, you will get extra options of Sport and Sport+ modes to select from. Meanwhile, the xDrive30d M Sport variant is incorporated with the adaptive M suspension system that also guarantees excellent ride quality. On the other hand, it gets a servotronic steering assist column that aids in better handling. Not only it adjusts to match with the vehicle's speed but also minimizes the effort you usually put in, to turn this wheel.

Safety

The company has not compromised in matters related to safety as this machine comes loaded with an array of elements that increases the level of security. Around six airbags are on the offer to prevent possible injury caused due to an impact, while all the occupants get three point seat belts with front pyrotechnic belt tensioners and force limiters. Electronic immobilizer safeguards the vehicle from theft, whereas the advanced ABS, cornering brake control as well as dynamic stability control are helpful in boosting the braking performance besides keeping the machine in good control. Other attributes such as the BMW Condition Based Service, ISOFIX child seat mounting and run flat indicator also aid for a safer journey.

Variants

Here, the Expedition variant is offered with an array of interesting features like the BMW Driving Experience Control, multifunction sport leather steering wheel, Hi-Fi loudspeaker system, 8-speed steptronic automatic transmission and many more.

The xDrive 30d Design Pure Experience trim, which is a five seater, gets a few extra elements such as an 8-speed steptronic sport automatic transmission, BMW Apps, Harman Kardon Surround system, and adaptive LED headlights with auto high beam assistance to name a few.

In the 7-seater range, you will get the foldable third row seats to make additional room for luggage, while it also has heating/ventilation console with cup holders as an added benefit.

Meanwhile, the top spec M Sport model includes BMW head-up display, Adaptive M suspension system, 19-inch double spoke style M light alloy wheels as well as M Sport Package, which altogether makes it the most expensive variant in the entire lineup.

Verdict:

The third generation BMW X5 has undergone changes over the year, but the handling still feels like what it was back in 1999. This SUV offers exceptional driving dynamics and sheer balance, which only a few SUVs of this size can offer. The 3.0-litre twin-power turbo diesel engine under the hood is punchy and powerful enough to surprise you. Adding to this, its smooth 8-speed automatic gearbox makes driving even exciting. This BMW has everything that a high-end luxury SUV should have. But on the design front, its interiors needs a bit of work. Also, it could use some tweaks to the exterior design like we've seen in 3-Series sedan and X3 SUV. Another big drawback is that the rear cabin is not comfortable for adults.