New BMW X5 dips below $100,000

The expansion of the new BMW X5 model line-up to include a sub-$100,00 xDrive25d variant takes the large-SUV fight directly to its main German rivals.

Flagged as a possibility for Australia in motoring.com.au in May, the X5 xDrive25d, at $99,900 before on-road costs, matches the entry-level Mercedes-Benz GLE 2.0 300d dollar for dollar and is a moderate $2100 shy of the base, $97,800 Audi Q7 3.0 TDI.

Significant for the new entry-level BMW X5 is the fact that, unlike the previous sub-$100,000 variant (the $93,900 rear-drive sDrive25d) the xDrive 25d matches its Mercedes-Benz GLE and Audi Q7 rivals with an AWD drivetrain.

The xDrive 25d employs a 170kW/450Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder TwinPower turbo-diesel engine driving through BMW’s eight-speed Sport Steptronic transmission and is claimed to accomplish the zero to 100km/h sprint in 7.5sec.

And the base X5’s specification levels defy price-point expectations by including as standard BMW’s Comfort Access and Travel and Comfort systems, Driving Assistant Professional sat-nav, ambient lighting, wood “Fineline Stripe” high-gloss interior trim, leatherette upholstery and 20-inch star-spoke alloy wheels.

The X5 xDrive 25d joins the recently-launched, 290kW six-cylinder petrol hybrid xDrive45e and the potent twin-turbo petrol V8 M50i flagship which winds out a lofty 390kW for a zero to 100km/h acceleration time of 4.7sec.

BMW Australia recently announced upgraded towing credentials for key models in the X5 range.

How much does the BMW X5 cost?

Diesel
2.0 xDrive 25d: $99,900
3.0 xDrive 30d: $117,900
3.0 xDriveM50d: $151,900

Petrol
3.0 xDrive 40i: $120,900
3.0 xDrive 45e: $129,900
4.0 xDrive M50i: $151,900

Prices do not include on-road costs