BMW X5 (07 on) - Review

It's little surprise that the diesel engines are favoured by X5 buyers - they accounted for 94% of all original models thanks to their frugal efficiency and punchy nature. The second-generation model uses the latest version of BMW's 3.0-litre turbodiesel, producing 235bhp along with immense pulling power. It's smooth and refined but with plenty of mid-range shove and reaches 62mph from rest in just 8.3 seconds - which is especially impressive considering it weighs more than two tonnes. The other diesel is a twin-turbocharged version of the same engine that produces 286bhp making it the most powerful six-cylinder unit in production. Badged the 3.0sd it accelerates from 0-62mph in a mere 7.0 seconds - enough to embarrass many hot hatches (and only half a second slower than the 4.8-litre petrol), while in-gear shove is immense. It's easily our pick of the engine range and works particularly well the new six-speed automatic gearbox (which is standard on all cars) while averaging 34mpg. There are two petrols - the first a 3.0-litre unit with 272bhp and the range-topping 4.8i which boasts 355bhp. The smaller engine lacks the muscle of the diesels and with economy of just 28mpg there seems little point in choosing it. The 4.8-litre unit is a V8 which has a wonderfully gruff engine note and is suitably fast with a 0-62mph time of just 6.5 seconds. However not only is it the most expensive model in the range but it will only average 24mpg.

Although the original X5 had excellent road manners, the second-generation model has made significant steps forward. A longer wheelbase and wider stance give it a lower centre of gravity while the stiff body means body roll is kept well in check. The meaty brakes instil even more confidence and the X5 feels stable and composed through bends with fantastic traction. But despite it's sheer size and weight it actually feels fairly nimble, helped in a large way by the well-weighted and involving steering. The X5 can also be specified with two advanced driver-focussed systems called Adaptive Drive and Active Steering . The first uses hydraulics to counteract the effects of cornering, preventing the body from leaning too heavily - it also continuously adjust the suspension settings for optimum comfort. Cars fitted with it feel exceptionally well controlled, no matter how difficult the corners. Active Steering reduces the amount of lock needed to turn the car at low speeds, making parking or low-speed corners easier, while increasing resistance at higher speeds for a more composed ride. Off road, the X5 doesn't have the hardware to compete with proper 4x4s, but does come with hill descent control (whose speed can now be reduced on the move using the cruise control), and a hill-start assistant which holds the brakes for up to three seconds after the driver's foot comes off the brake pedal.