The BMX X5 is one of the most successful cars the brand has ever built, having sold more than 2.2 million models since its introduction in 1999. Now in its forth generation, BMW has had to up their game and that’s exactly what they did. Ladies and gentlemen, the BOSS IS BACK
Design
The new model is taller, wider and longer than the model it replaces. Its a good looking car, with our test model being fitted with a M Sport, off-road tires and finished in a rather classy Sunstone Metallic paint finish. The new larger kidney grille didn’t agree to some, but we think it looks great and suits the cars big size. The car has presence and we love how it looks.
The optional laser lights are a must have, they project clean light much further than the standard headlights.
Malsusi
Inside
The interior of the BMW X5 is stunning, everything is either covered high quality plastics or brushed aluminum switchgear. It features BMW latest iDrive System which is intuitive and easy to use, its also features Apple CarPlay. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional is pretty epic, its features high-quality display network consisting of a high-resolution 12.3″ Control Display that can be operated by touch and a fully digital 12.3″ instrument display which is sharp, crisp and easy to read. To keep the tunes banging, our test model was fitted with optional Harmon/kardon Surround Sound System. We love the sound, when set up properly it delivers very clean sound. You can ferry around 4 passengers with ease. Fitted with the optional Panorama glass roof Sky lounge, during the day it adds a feel of airiness to the cabin and at night it’s quite a spectacle, because its fitted with 15,000 light elements and the option of six different colours. The split folding tailgate is one of my favorite features, makes chucking in larger items much easier. The optional laser lights are a must have, they project clean light much further than the standard headlights.
The Drive
Powering the BMW X5 xDrive30d is a 3.0-litre in-line 6 cylinder engine which develops 195kW and 620Nm. Power is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. The off-road tyres are good, but would rather utilize them when doing some proper off-roading. After jumping out of one fitted with them and jumping into one that has normal road tyres, the difference is noticeable as found that the ride gets a bit hard because of them. For a diesel it has quite a sporty exhaust note, and using launch control in this car is quite enjoyable. BMW claims 7.3 l/100kms, but during out test managed a best of 8.5 l/100kms. You’d be happy to know that on a full tank the xDrive30d gives you 1000kms on a tank.
Verdict
The BMW xDrive30d starts at R1,293,261 (with M Sport Package) and finds itself competing with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLE, which mind you has upped its game a lot. If you’re looking for an SUV that’s fun to drive and delivers admirable performance, the X5 is the one.
