Used BMW X5 2000 - 2007 review
The BMW X5 drives like a 5 Series and has lots of kit, but it's ferociously expensive to own.
- BMW X5 (00 - 07)
What's the used BMW X5 like?
The BMW X5 is a high-image cruiser bought for its looks rather than its off-road ability. Despite its bulk, it is easy and satisfying to drive, and most have automatic gearboxes that change smoothly.
Inside, it's classic BMW: the dashboard is lifted from a 5 Series, albeit with a few modifications, and while some of the buttons are small, everything is easy to find.
Pros
- It's great on Tarmac and classy inside.
Cons
- Only five seats and the petrol engines are very thirsty
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Up front, comfort is spot-on: the driver's seat has electric height adjustment and the wheel adjusts for reach and height, so everyone should find be able to find a spot that suits. The view out is clear, too, although most models have reversing sensors, which are very handy.
Practicality, too, is excellent. There's space in the back for three adults and, although the boot isn't the biggest, it is a good shape. Plus, the tailgate is split so that just the glass can be opened, and the lower part drops to give a flat loading platform.
The X5 earned a full five stars from Euro NCAP for occupant safety in a crash, but only one star for pedestrian protection.
Our recommendations
Which used BMW X5 should I buy?
Go for the 3.0 diesel. It's smooth and has just the right low-rev punch that a car like this needs. It tips 30mpg across a mix of trips, which is 10mpg better than any of the petrols. What's more, it's the slowest depreciator of the lot.
Trim-wise, you can choose between SE or Sport. Both offer all you'd want including alloy wheels, climate control and a CD player, but we prefer the SE's lower price and softer ride.
If diesel isn't for you, there's a 3.0 petrol or a pair of V8s of 4.4 and 4.8 litres. The bigger-engined models have lavish specification including auto transmission and leather seats, but they guzzle fuel - the 4.8 manages just 13mpg on urban trips.
BMW dealers have the most choice, but the highest prices, whereas off-roader specialists stock older cars and charge a bit less, although there's no such thing as a cheap X5. Wherever you buy, condition, trim, and history must be faultless to justify the prices.
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