BUYER’SGUIDE: BMW X5
CO2 /tax
158-165g/km
£155
Running costs
44-47mpg (xDrive30d)
£121 fill-up
Performance
0-62mph/top speed
6.5 seconds/143mph
WHEN BMW launched the original X5 in 1999, it proved that it was possible to build a full-sized SUV that was as good to drive as a decent estate car. Until that point, buying an SUV meant settling for (usually significant) dynamic compromises, but not here. Maybe that’s why BMW didn’t call the X5 a sports utility vehicle; instead it reckoned that it was an SAV, or a sports activity vehicle.
BMW would come up with two sequels before launching the fourth-generation X5 that you see here, and as you would expect, the newest model is the most accomplished yet. With a focus on refinement and comfort, the X5 Mk4 impresses on many levels, including performance, practicality, comfort and space. As you can tell, we love the X5
