What Car? says
For The BMW X5 is great to drive, spacious, well equipped and highly desirable
Against It's expensive to own, has a firm ride and the third row of seats is cramped
Verdict More Chelsea tractor than country workhorse, but the X5 makes great prestige 4x4
Go for… 3.0d SE
Avoid… 4.8i M Sport
- 1. In the battle of the big 4x4s, the BMW X5 is one of the best. Sure-footed on the road and competent off it.
- 2. The 3.0-litre diesels are the pick of the range. We'd opt for the 232bhp version over the 282bhp 3.0Sd – it's easier to find on the used market too, and it's fast and silky smooth.
- 3. Look for cars with the optional adaptive suspension if you want to smooth out the firmer ride.
- 4. Petrol-powered X5s don't hold their value as well as the diesel models. While this makes them cheaper to buy used, they will go on to lose money faster as they age.
- 5. The run-flat tyres are expensive to replace, so make sure you check them before you buy.
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Reader test team says:
BMW X5 4x4 3.0si SE 5dr
I find the Whatcar review rather biased. …
3
out of 5 stars
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Had my new X5 for a week and its awesome. …
5
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