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It's hard to imagine that there was a time when the concept of "luxury SUV" was considered sacrilege by BMW enthusiasts. Today, the X5 is BMW Australia's best-selling car and SUVs account for 60% of the company's sales.
Yet, despite their popularity, luxury SUVs can often be unpredictable in terms of driving experience – the addition of any extra size and weight often comes at the expense of handling, and the luxury segment of the market tends not to compensate. significant off-road capabilities either.
It's only on Tasmania's small roads that you really begin to appreciate the work BMW has done to perpetuate the X5 legacy of being an SUV almost as dynamic as the car.
BMW chose Launceston for the local launch of the X5, where we were able to test the M30d and the high-end M50d. Both models are diesel and represent about 70% of total sales. However, a gasoline model (the M40i) will be marketed at the end of next year.
So, what does the new X5 like to drive?
Modern luxury cars today are really half computer and half machine, and the BMW X5 is no exception. For example, two 12.3-inch digital displays replace the analog odometer and speed dials of yesteryear with high-definition pixel tapestry.
This high-tech approach is also found in the driving experience, with a range of symphony-based onboard computers to keep you stuck to the road. The grip of the big tires of 19 or 20 inches is incredible, and you can really push the X5 around corners and rely on the AWD system to help you.
Starting at $ 112,990, the M30d offers a plethora of other technologies, including a high-end satellite navigation system, panoramic sunroof, head-up display, adaptive LED lights and leather upholstery.
The only two options that we recommend are the M-sport pack and the air suspension. Compared to the standard suspension, the air suspension was significantly smoother and more flexible.
There is also a convenient backup assistant that will allow you to "rewind" the last 50 meters of your ride. Ideal if you have a narrow and winding driveway or if you need to get out of difficult parking situations.
For the very first time, BMW is also offering an off road package for an additional $ 7,500, but they do not expect a high turnout. After all, the X5 is designed to maneuver the local mall and school parking lot more than the outback.
For most motorists, the M30d takes up a lot of space: the engine is quiet and quiet, but can also be powerful when you need it.
At the top, the M50d starts at $ 149,990 and includes a more powerful engine and extras worth about $ 27,000, including a kit for better sportswear, a stiffer sport suspension, a Harman audio system / Kardon upgraded and 22-inch wheels. For audiophiles, there is also the option of switching to a Bowers and Wilkins audio system.
The M50d is rather crude, with 4 turbochargers giving you serious power to exploit. Like his more sober brother, the M50d feels solid on the road, where other SUVs can feel like boats.
The next xDrive40i will share the same equipment as the xDrive30d, at almost identical prices: the gasoline variant starts at $ 115,990, while the diesel model sells for less at $ 112,990.
The BMW X5 xDrive40i is powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo petrol engine that generates 250 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque and can travel from 0 to 100 km / h in just 5.2 seconds.
There is no doubt that the X5 will remain a popular model for BMW and a pillar on the roads of our capitals. The new variants improve the outgoing X5 range mold, adding small improvements while maintaining the X5's core competency as a very lively automotive SUV.
Former technical writer and automotive editor, Sid now spends more time at the sharp end of the plane, with a good whiskey in his hand.
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