THE BMW X5 is one of the best handling 4x4’s on the road, not to mention the one which has all the right image and cachet.
It took the company far too long to decide to build a 4x4 but when they did, it was a great looker and has sold like hot cakes.
There is only one big off-roader that tops it and that’s the Range Rover.
Don’t forget though that all originally expensive cars come with expensive tastes in fuel, insurance, servicing and parts.
And buying an X5 second-hand needs ground rules. Never touch one unless it has full service history and you are convinced it is honest.
There are four engines – one diesel and three petrol – and most will come with an automatic gearbox which is as it should be.
The 184 or 218bhp 3.0-litre turbo diesel is the pick. It’s the best oil burner on the market.
Performance is excellent, comfort marvellous and road-holding is much better than most of the opposition.
Interior
Basic spec is good, with almost everything most drivers could want and interior space is massive. Don’t pay over the odds and remember, it’s only a soft roader.
Petrols will only give 22mpg wheras diesels can manage 30. Most will have been kitted out with umpteen extras by the first owner to “personalise” their car.
FAST FACTS
BMW X5
Price: Pay about £7,400 at an independent dealer for an ’03 03-reg 3.0d, £14,400 for an ’06 56-reg SE
Mechanical: 184 or 218bhp, 2,926cc, 6cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 5/6-speed automatic gearbox.
Max speed: 124
0-62mph: 10.1
Combined mpg: 32
Insurance group: 16
CO2 emissions: 233g/km
Marks: 10/10
Main rival: Range Rover