BMW X5: First Drive

Let's face it, we've always liked the BMW X5, and when the company ushers in an all new model, we just couldn't wait to get our hands on it both on road and off it! Vikram Gour puts the new X5 xDrive30d through its paces to bring you these driving impressions?

BMW's design might have taken a turn towards a slightly more sober outlook post the 'Bangle' era, however the fact remains that the product portfolio is still filled with head turners. The all new BMW X5 is no different. It does speak the new design language that is now associated with the X models in terms of being robust, broad and in line with quintessential SUV design. The large front grille flanked by those rather sexy dual xenon headlights and the chiseled bodylines give the new X5 a sporty yet elegant look which ought to gel well with customers. The rear design too follows the sculpted chiseled look and neatly brings the entire package together again highlighting the sporty overtone to the entire look and feel.

Climb in to the plush interiors of the X5 and you are greeted by the typical level of BMW quality, ergonomics and fine materials. The fit and finish is definitely up market and there is a welcoming familiarity about the X5. The spacious interiors are further accentuated by the large sunroof which allows for an even more open feel. BMW has also taken the liberty to insure that the X5 is rather flexible in seating and though most users will keep their X5 predominantly as a 5 seater, there is an optional third row of seating that allows for two more passengers. The level of kit and entertainment depends on the package, and if you are in the market for a BMW you will soon realize that the list is endless! The X5 at my disposal happened to feature a DVD player and screen located between the front two seats for the rear passengers, and I am told that this is only one of many configurations. Regardless, the options exist and its entirely up to the customer to choose their entertainment set up. Having said that, the rather famous idrive function is standard equipment and though it does take a little getting used to, its not as difficult to use as its been made out to be.

Fire up the X5 xDrive30d and you are greeted with silence. If you happen to be standing outside, it's a gentle purr, and this being a diesel is surely a statement to refinement and packaging. The all-aluminium six-cylinder diesel with TwinPower Turbo and Common Rail direct injection featured in the BMW X5 xDrive30d is a refined piece of machinery and rather powerful too. Delivering about 245hp and churning out a stunning 540Nm of torque between 1,750 - 3,000 rpm, this diesel is really a joy to drive. Mated to a 8 speed tiptronic gearbox, which incidentally is standard in all X5 models, the X5 xDrive30d can accelerate from 0 - 100 kmph in 7.6 seconds accordingly to BMW.

 In real world conditions this power delivery translates to a locomotive like thrust forward that resembles a sports car more than a SUV. If you want something faster, you can always opt for the X5 xDrive50i which comes fitted with a V8 TwinPowerTurbo and direct petrol injection and makes 407hp and 600Nm of torque between 1,750-4,500rpm and can accelerate from 0-100kmph in 5.5 seconds, but that will cost you at least Rs 10 lakh more than the diesel version!