There are heaps of grunt on constant standby, should you need it. Use the cruise control though, because this is one of those engines that sneaks up on you. The beefy, smooth power discreetly rocket drivers into accidental speeding territory in a hurry if care isn't exercised. I had the same problem with the brand's twin-turbo straight-six gas engine, too.
The power output here can be entertaining. So can shouting 'oh shoot!' during refueling, when nearby work-truck drivers point out that you're filling your 'Bimmer' with diesel. Driving past the midday lineup at the gas pumps is also smugly satisfying.
Very torquey, modestly sporty
The x5 xDrive35d's abundant thrust works alongside a firm, heavy steering feel and stiff-sided suspension setup for some surprising driving characteristics. Even gentle throttle application pushes heads into seatbacks, and there's enough grip and composure to throw the X5 around some corners if you're so inclined. It's a heavy machine, though one not entirely against spirited driving.
A softness is delivered just around the edges, so X5 feels sporty yet mainly comfortable over just about anything. Hit the road less travelled, and the slick xDrive system directs each wheel individually for maximum traction, too.
A well-stocked and chocolatey interior
The tester came with several option packages, expanding its hardware offerings to include a panoramic sunroof, navigation, a backup camera, an intelligent key and more. As equipped, the packages also expanded the sticker price from the X5 xDrive35d's $62,200 base to a tick over $74,500.
Front seats offer more adjustments than a Bowflex gym, and all 5 were trimmed in gorgeous chocolate-brown colored leather. Contrasting dark wood trim complemented the hide, and most of the interior looks nearly good enough to eat. Storage levels are good, visibility is decent, and there's plenty of space for 4 or 5 grown-ups.
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| It's rare to see an SUV driver smiling after a fill up, but if you drive a diesel-powered X5, you just might. |
The power output here can be entertaining. So can shouting 'oh shoot!' during refueling, when nearby work-truck drivers point out that you're filling your 'Bimmer' with diesel. Driving past the midday lineup at the gas pumps is also smugly satisfying.
Very torquey, modestly sporty
The x5 xDrive35d's abundant thrust works alongside a firm, heavy steering feel and stiff-sided suspension setup for some surprising driving characteristics. Even gentle throttle application pushes heads into seatbacks, and there's enough grip and composure to throw the X5 around some corners if you're so inclined. It's a heavy machine, though one not entirely against spirited driving.
A softness is delivered just around the edges, so X5 feels sporty yet mainly comfortable over just about anything. Hit the road less travelled, and the slick xDrive system directs each wheel individually for maximum traction, too.
A well-stocked and chocolatey interior
The tester came with several option packages, expanding its hardware offerings to include a panoramic sunroof, navigation, a backup camera, an intelligent key and more. As equipped, the packages also expanded the sticker price from the X5 xDrive35d's $62,200 base to a tick over $74,500.
Front seats offer more adjustments than a Bowflex gym, and all 5 were trimmed in gorgeous chocolate-brown colored leather. Contrasting dark wood trim complemented the hide, and most of the interior looks nearly good enough to eat. Storage levels are good, visibility is decent, and there's plenty of space for 4 or 5 grown-ups.
 |
| The tester came with several option packages, expanding its hardware offerings to include navigation. |