Who’s the boss? We drive the latest BMW X5 M50D

The BMW X5 is the OG of SUVs and their tagline for this model is: “The boss is back”.  X5 is car that started their SUV line up way back in 1999 and BMW are proud to unveil the latest generation X5 to SA.  We drive the first two models available in South Africa, the 30d and mighty M50D for over 400km to find out what’s new, on the new BMW X5.

X5 on the road

Gone are the days where large SUVs are lumbering leviathans that are slow and cumbersome.  I realised this the second I started up the M50d whilst getting comfortable for our journey from George to Oudtshoorn.   Our trip would take us on the N2 but also on some very trying and testing mountain roads.  In keeping with its new strategy, BMW is launching the X5 with just these two derivatives for now so I immediately ran for the flagship model to kick things off.  In these segments I almost always have my pick of the bunch be the diesel version and if anyone knows how to make a good diesel, it’s the lads from Bayern.  The incredible 3.0 inline-6 294kw engine now has four turbos fitted. This makes the car good for 790Nm of torque and a claimed fuel consumption figure of just 7.2l/100km, with 0-100 coming up in just 5.2 seconds.  Best of all,  there is almost no diesel clatter from the engine. Just a glorious exhaust note supported by a smooth sounding and revving engine.  The only clue that this could be a diesel is the voluminous amount of torque available from just 2000rpm. The region we were traversing was getting some much-needed rain so having to overtake safely and quickly was a must.  X5 is simply mega when it comes to dispatching the km quickly.  X5 M50D is fitted with air suspension that is height adjustable depending on the conditions.  I unfortunately fell sick during our drive and had to put the passenger side seat down and catch a quick nap, so I can honestly attest to the X5’s incredible levels of comfort thanks to that new suspension system.

X5 on the dirt

Later that day I got to drive the xDrive30d which although much less powerful feels every bit as powerful as the 195kW would suggest.  The X3 had smaller wheels and tyres and our route plot via the backroads of Knysna covering some 80km of rutted and bumpy gravel roads.  At this stage, the road had turned to mud and even though our car was not fitted with the optional AT3 tyres (a R60 000 option) it felt sure-footed in the XGravel mode.  I specifically aimed for the most slippy parts of the road and even under full power the car tracked true and straight. But I did have to keep my wits about me when you’re trying to unleash 620Nm of torque on what was essentially sandy water. The entry-level model has a claimed fuel consumption figure of 7.0l/100 and 0-100 comes up in a claimed 6.5 seconds.

Interior

Inside X5 comes with a variety of options and new technology.  From the LED panoramic sunroof to the new infotainment system that now responds to “Hello BMW”.  BMW have loaded the X5 with many firsts.  The new autonomous driving system is as good as the best that the Swedes have to offer with a seamless adaptive cruise control system that follows the contours of any winding road. Provided the road markings are clear enough of course.  Other changes include the start button has now been moved to the centre console, an optional crystal gear knob that I was enjoying WAY too much and an all new dash board with a digital display.  We were all yelling for BMW to finally change the dash layout, well they have.  It will take some getting used to but the Germans are experts at ergonomics and I wasn’t much phased by it after about 10 minutes behind the wheel.  Unfortunately, our test units didn’t come with the optional 20 speaker Bowers and Wilkins system, but I can only imagine that that is going to provide lots of aural pleasure.

Verdict

The X5 doesn’t look much different on the outside, in fact when looking at the various models since its inception in 1999, not much has changed externally, a  deliberate move by BMW.  Inside however much has moved with the times including the interior tech and those incredible powerplants.  I’m sure BMW we’ll see many X5s on the road over the coming months, maintaining its position in the market.  I don’t think the boss is back, I think the boss never left.

BMW X5 Pricing

BMW X5 xDrive30d – R1 194 296

BMW X5 M50d – R1 502 582