BMW X5 2013 Review - International

BMW X5 xDrive30d and xDrive50i

International Launch
Vancouver, Canada

What we liked:
>> User-friendly tech and equipment
>> Extensive engine selection
>> Quiet, comfortable ride

OVERVIEW

Fourteen years on, the all-new, third-generation (F15-series) X5 continues to set benchmarks. It is larger, more versatile and more fuel efficient than not only the model it replaces, but also the majority of its rivals (see COMPETITORS below).

BMW now offers a series of revised drivetrains and fuel-saving technologies it says will help the new X5 fulfil, and in some cases even exceed, the strict standards of EU6 exhaust emission stipulations.

The X5 also offers the flexibility of optional third-row seating. This comes in addition to increased cargo carrying capacity, and a versatile 40:20:40 split-fold-seat function as standard for the second-row. The new model offers more interior space throughout, and has reshaped seats for even greater comfort.

Technology and infotainment levels also receive an upgrade, and there’s an even smarter list of custom features, trim and paint colours, as well as a number of rationalised option packages to choose from.

In short, the new X5 is longer, wider, lighter and more technologically advanced. It’s a proper premium SUV with the proportions to back its practical looks. If you’re looking for a new prestige crossover, read on.

PRICE AND EQUIPMENT
>> Simple sophistication aplenty
With a comprehensive head-up display screen, the ability to park itself, and nifty surround-view camera system, the X5 is not only clever, but practical too.

The technologies onboard add to the driving experience in a useful way, and are a cinch to operate. Each joins the expected equipment items to improve time spent at the wheel, and never feel overwhelming or unnecessary.

Of course, sat-nav, climate control, cruise control with braking function, power windows and mirrors, and Bluetooth connectivity are included. A range of in-built apps via BMW’s Connected Drive system also enable internet connectivity, web radio and even social media access on-the-go.

The Professional radio is standard specification, though a premium Harman Kardon Surround Sound System is available. Should you wish to be even more immersed in your music, a top-notch Bang & Olufsen High End Surround Sound System with 1200-watt amplifier and 16 speakers is also offered.

All are controlled via a floating centre screen, which in its largest variation is 10.25-inches across. Like all BMW models, the infotainment system is operated an iDrive controller, which now adds written letter scratch-pad recognition a la Audi.

Digital radio (DAB+) reception, a TV module and a newly developed rear-seat entertainment system with DVD drive and two tablet-style monitors are also available as options. That ought to keep the kids happy.

The steering wheel can be switched for a sports leather jobbie which is available with heating. Four-zone climate control is available, as are automatically dimming exterior mirrors, doors with Soft Close Automatic function, Comfort Access, a panoramic glass roof, aluminium footplates in the side skirts, a storage compartments package, and the ski and snowboard bag.

Rationalised option packaging sees the X5 offered with what BMW refer to as two “design worlds” which extend to the vehicle’s exterior and interior. One is a more offroad oriented look dubbed Design Pure Experience. The second is a luxury look known as Design Pure Excellence.

The two option packages can be intermixed, meaning you can have a rugged looking outside with a plush interior, or vice versa.

A third, and familiar, M Sport Package is also available, which is offered solo, or in combination with the two aforementioned “worlds”.

Full Aussie pricing for the new X5 has not been announced, though a representative from BMW Australia says we can expect the new model to start from around $6000 more than the current entry-spec vehicle.

The reasons for this price increase are two-fold. One is because the new model comes with around $9000 more equipment that the model it replaces. The other is that, initially at least, the X5 will be offered only with higher grade engines (see MECHANICAL), the others not joining the local line-up until March 2014.

The three variants listed below will go on sale locally from November (2013).

MECHANICAL
>> Two-wheel drive offered for the first time
From launch, the X5 will offer a selection of engines that include a (330kW) turbo-petrol V8 in xDrive50i variants and (190kW) six-cylinder turbo-diesel in xDrive30d models. They are joined by the tri-turbo (280kW) hyper diesel, the same found in the current X5 M50d, in the new model of the same name.

All three launch engine variants are fitted as standard with all-wheel drive and all are offered in conjunction with an eight-speed automatic transmission, now with launch control function. Steering wheel paddles are fitted as standard to M50d variants and are available optionally on other models.

The range will grow further in December when two and all-wheel drive (160kW) turbo-diesel versions, dubbed sDrive25d and xDrive25d respectively, join the portfolio. They will be accompanied simultaneously by an in-line (225kW) six-cylinder turbo-petrol all-wheel drive badged xDrive35i and higher output (230kW) turbo-diesel, again with all-wheel drive, known as xDrive40d.

Kicking off the X5 range at this point in time is the xDrive30d. Its 3.0-litre six-cylinder utilises direct-injection and turbocharging to develop 190kW (up 10kW) and 560Nm (up 20Nm), which is delivered between 1500-3000rpm.

BMW says the xDrive30d will accelerate to 100km/h in 6.9 seconds (down 0.7sec) and consume 6.2L/100km (down 1.2L) on the combined cycle. CO2 emissions are listed from 162g/km (down 31g).

The current mid-ranger, and the only petrol engine at this stage, is a ‘new generation’ V8 displacing 4.4 litres. Fitted in the xDrive50i, this twin-turbocharged and direct-injected unit develops 330kW (up 30kW) and 650Nm (up 50Nm) between 2000-4500rpm.

It is more fuel efficient than the model it supersedes, now consuming only 10.4L/100km (down 2.0L), and is cleaner with CO2 emission of 242g/km (down 50g).

The X5 xDrive50i will accelerate 0-100km/h in 5.0 seconds (down 0.5sec).

Familiar to the current M50d, and headlining the new X5 range, is the tri-turbo 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel. Fuel is supplied via a common rail piezo injection system to develop a whopping 280kW and 740Nm, the latter from between 2000-3000rpm.

The M50d will hit triple figures in 5.3 seconds (down 0.1sec) and consume only 6.7L/100km (down 0.8L). Compared to its predecessor, the sporty oiler is also less gassy, now emitting only 177g/km of CO2 (down 22g).

All versions of the new X5 are equipped as standard with Electric Power Steering (EPS). Active steering, which varies both the level of assistance and the input required in relation to vehicle speed, is available optionally on xDrive30d and xDrive50i models.

Drag-reducing Air Curtains, a technology which debuts on the new X5, use vertical apertures in the front air dam to guide air around the wheel arches, forming a ‘curtain’ of air over the wheels. This is then bled in a controlled fashion through Air Breathers in the side panels to reduce turbulence, and therefore parasitic drag. Combined with a slipperier body and other surface tweaks, the technology endows the X5 with what BMW claims is a class-leading aero figure of 0.31Cd.

Like all BMW models, the new X5 features a comprehensive range of eco-friendlier EfficientDynamics technologies and equipment. These include ECO PRO mode (as part of the four-mode Driving Experience Control switch) which tailors the drivetrain, electronic and ancillary systems for more efficient running, low rolling-resistance tyres, brake energy regeneration, idle stop-start and the aforementioned EPS system and aerodynamic features.

The chassis is adaptable with the optional (air) Comfort and Professional Adaptive Suspension packages to deliver what BMW says are an improved “combination of confident, sure-footed off-road traction and sporty but comfortable on-road driving”.

Braking is all-disc and is supported by an auto-hold function as standard -- part of the also standard electromechanical park brake. A tyre defect indicator is standard on all X5 models, while wheel sizes vary from 18 to 20-inches, depending on model.

PACKAGING
>> Instantly X5
Themed in the ‘family’ style of the new 3 and 5 Series, X5 sports the same ‘flowing’ grille and headlight arrangement. The body is otherwise visually familiar to its predecessor, though is, perhaps surprisingly, all new.

BMW tells us that much like the Porsche 911, this evolutionary approach is quite intentional. It says that it wants the X5 to be “instantly recognisable as an X5”, and that it wants return customers to feel “instantly familiar” with the SUV.

The new X5 is longer (up 32mm), wider (up 5mm) and lighter (down 90kg) than before, offering more interior space and greater cargo carrying capacity.

A seven-seat option is available (for passengers up to 150cm in height, says BMW) and 40:20:40 split-fold seating for the second row is now standard.

With the second row in place, and to window height, the X5 offers 650 litres (up 30L) of luggage space, which can be expended to a total of 1870 litres (up 120L) all told.

Access to the cargo compartment comes via a split, two-section tailgate. The main (top) section is electrically operated as standard across the range, and can be opened and closed via the key fob, or from a button located near the driver’s seat.

Seating is improved throughout the range and, depending on variant, can be optioned with Comfort or Sports type pews. Seat heating is available (optionally in most markets) for the front and outboard seats of the second row.

The tiered dashboard with floating infotainment screen is familiar to other, newer sedan models from the BMW portfolio, but is lifted thanks to a stitched leather dash cap and choice of woodgrain, metal or polished black plastic garnishes.

Despite this, the dash and console retain the layout and instrumentation array that has become a hallmark of the range.

SAFETY
>> Safe as houses
The new X5’s all-wheel disc brakes are assisted by an extensive range of electronic aids. These include familiar items such as anti-lock, brake assist, brake-force distribution, traction and stability control, but add corner brake control, dynamic brake control, an automated differential brake function, start-off assist, fading compensation, brake drying, trailer stability control, hill descent control, and a brake stand-by feature.

A renewed Driving Assistant safety package includes Lane Departure Warning, a pedestrian and collision warning system with braking function. It can be further complemented by the Driving Assistant Plus package with adds Stop & Go functionality to the cruise control.

The system will be bolstered even further from December (2013) production by Traffic Jam Assistant which allows the X5 to steer, stop and start autonomously in slow moving traffic (up to 40km/h).

In the event an accident is about to take place, the X5’s Active Protection system will close the side windows and sunroof (if fitted), pull the front seatbelts tight and adjust the backrest of the front passenger seat to the upright position [no mention of tray tables]. The system also has the ability to monitor driving behaviour and advise if it believes a break from driving is needed.

Should a collision occur, or there’s a medical emergency on board, the X5 is also fitted with an Intelligent Emergency Call system. The system relays important information to the BMW Call Centre in the event of a crash, such as vehicle position (accurate within metres), chassis number, vehicle model, vehicle colour and data from the onboard sensors.

The system also detects how many people are travelling in the vehicle, which airbags were activated and the intensity of the impact.

The X5 has a full complement of airbags, a lane change warning system, adaptive headlights, auto high-beam and is even available with Adaptive LED Headlights which automatically block a portion of the headlight beam to prevent dazzling oncoming traffic.

Although yet to be tested, it’s a safe bet the new X5 will achieve a five-star EuroNCAP rating.

COMPETITORS
>> X5 faces even more competition
BMW says its new X5 rivals the likes of the Audi Q7 (from $90,000), Mercedes-Benz ML-Class (from $82,900), Porsche Cayenne (from $100,200) and Land Rover Range Rover Sport (from $102,800).

With Australian pricing for the new X5 yet to be properly announced, we can’t confirm just how close the fight might be. Though if the current price scale is anything to go by (from $92,245), the X5 will certainly be fighting fair, at least where list price is concerned.

Factor in value and the whole scenario is turned on its head.

Size and market appeal virtually strike the Q7 and Cayenne from the list in Oz, which leaves us with the ML and the Sport. Both of these vehicles have recently been revised or completely renewed, and on price, specification and principle sit on a level pegging with the new X5; and will be the pair most likely cross-shopped.

We’d also suggest some buyers will look at the Lexus RX and Infiniti FX models if the desire to buy ‘German’ is not an overwhelming part of the decision making process (though we should point out that the BMW X5 is in fact built in the USA).

If saving a buck is a priority, the Jeep Grand Cherokee (from $43,000) and Volkswagen Touareg (from $63,990) also make a lot of sense.

ON THE ROAD
>> Smooth operator on and offroad
If you’ve made it this far you’ve probably noticed that although there are a lot of additions, there are just as many points that remain the same... That’s the way X5 buyers want it and that’s why BMW built it so... Sounds logical, right?

Of course it does. The X5 continues to sell in strong numbers, even this late in its life cycle. And like they say, if it ain’t broke...

But of the fixes BMW has made to the X5, perhaps none are as evident, or improved as the ride quality. The second generation X5 was criticised by some for being too firm. Problem solved -- the new X5 is a far better blend of ride and handling, with a focus that sees the comfort side of the equation better tended to, with little loss to its much-admired handling.

It’s especially noticeable offroad. Vancouver’s beautifully sealed highways did little to challenge the X5’s suspension, so the path less travelled gave us a chance to explore just how well the large SUV would deal with potholes, ruts and rock. And deal with them it did...

It’s not as cushy as the Ford Territory, for example, but it is a marked improvement over its predecessor. As well as being well mannered on the rough stuff, it’s also a capable cornerer, and one that hides its obvious bulk rather well.

As you’d expect from a premium SUV, feel and feedback to the driver are spot on, or just about. The brake pedal feel is progressive and weighted to deliver a sedan-like level of modulation that sees the X5 stop with the finesse of a light hatch. Most of the secondary controls are similarly tactile.

The issue is, however, that the electric power steering doesn’t feel quite right. It doesn’t return to centre of its own accord and is ‘dead’ just off-centre before again feeling ‘normal’ as you progress through your turn.

Driving the xDrive30d (diesel) and xDrive50i (petrol) on launch it’s obvious that there’s disparity between the engine outputs. That’s to be expected, and obviously both will suit different buyers and are therefore incomparable in many ways.

It’s the 30d that impresses in its even-handed delivery. The oiler doesn’t have to work hard to achieve results, and works cooperatively with the eight-speed auto to rise and fall through the rev range with minimal fuss. The torque comes on strong and only really seems to fall short when summoned to overtake.

That’s not an issue the V8 50i seems to suffer. Whether it’s the break from the blocks, climbing a hill or pulling out to pass, the twin-turbo offers effortless power from any point on the tach -- matched by an addictive bassy growl.

The smooth roads of the hills surrounding Vancouver did little to show up road noise from the X5’s tyres, though on Aussie roads this could prove an issue. The only other NVH issue we really seemed to pick was a little wind hiss from the big mirrors, which we might add proved beneficial when changing lanes and parking.

As much as the new X5 isn’t a radical departure from its predecessor, the changes that have been made are rational, welcomed and entirely in-line with buyer expectations. Moving from a recipe that has seen the X5 become BMW’s gravy boat would be a foolish move, and we’re pleased to see that the Bavarians have played it safe.

Let’s hope their devotees don’t think it’s too safe and look elsewhere, especially when the Rangie Sport and Mercedes-Benz ML are now every bit as good.