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BMW

Tuesday, 6th of January 2009

Polls

BMW provides the choice of three quality engines, the 3.0-litre and 4.8-litre petrol and the 3.0-litre diesel. There is also a twin-turbocharged 3.0sd model.

The X5 corners superbly, the steering is communicative and well-biased. Visibility is excellent in all directions but the rear, where the smallish window limits. The X5 is a 4x4 that is enjoyable to drive with engines that provide great power.

BMW and high build quality consistently go hand-in-hand (the X3 notwithstanding) and the X5 is expertly put together using the finest materials. BMW’s iDrive makes the dash uncluttered. Reliability should be top notch.

Euro NCAP crash tests awarded the X5 with four stars for adult occupation. However, it only received 1 star for pedestrian protection, an area in which Euro NCAP described its performance as dire. Driver, passenger, front and side airbags are included as standard, so are anti-lock brakes, automatic stability control, brake drying, brake fade compensation, cornering brake control, dynamic traction control and electronic brake-force distribution.

The new 7-seater X5 has been lengthened by 18.7cm and widened by 6.1cm to make room for the new row of seats. As a five-seater the X5 is now extremely spacious with a massive boot space. The third row of seats is suitable only for children.

The fuel economy of the petrol engines is poor; you will struggle to get more than 25 miles to the gallon. The diesel engines are better though averaging 25 miles to the gallon. The insurance groups are high, starting at 17, going up to 19. Residuals will be good and the X5 may make a better leasing option as the price tag is steep.

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