Currently, in BMW’s F15 X5 line-up, you can go for 2 diesel variants if you live in Europe or only one for the US. However, both of them deliver performances and low maintenance costs, allowing you to have your cake and eat it at the same time.
The guys from What Car? tested the xDrive30d model (or xDrive35d if you live in the US) to see if the new model rises to their high expectations, especially compared to its rivals.
As it turns out it didn’t because they think the new X5 is not a refined car and has some issues that you simply cannot get past so you should forget all about it. What a bunch of BS!
Actually, if you watch their video you’ll notice that their only complaint was that the engine was a bit noisy and that they felt some vibrations through the steering wheel and shifter paddles. Oh, and they also mentioned the wind noise and steering feel, things that really aren’t as bad as they picture them.
Other than that, the space is plenty, legroom more than enough, interior feel premium, as it should, the iDrive system is flawless and the running costs are more than decent for such a car, combined with frugalness.
Now, about the issues they spotted. What about a petrol engine, editors? If the diesel is way too noisy and ‘sends vibrations through the steering wheel’ (that otherwise is completely numb according to them) why not go for the xDrive35i model?
Most people that prefer diesels, know what comes with such an engine and they choose accordingly. Those that prefer petrol engines will never go for a model from BMW that has a ‘d’ on the boot, they have their own models cut out for them.
Discarding the entire range of X5 models just because they thought the 30d diesel did what was supposed to seems a bit harsh to us. But maybe we’re overreacting. Watch the video to see for yourself.
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