Skip advert
Advertisement
Car group tests

10. BMW X5

BMW X5 front tracking

The BMW X5 is a veteran 4x4, paving the way for rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover Sport. It's going to be replaced by the end of 2013, and hopefully it'll be even better. But the current version is still a great choice, with a spacious cabin and a wide range of engines to choose from.

Advertisement - Article continues below

As a new version is due soon, BMW has trimmed down the spec range of the X5, so now it only includes SE and M Sport versions. Both, however, feature the same slick-shifting eight-speed automative gearbox. In terms of engines, the most popular is the 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder, which comes in 30d and 40d versions. The 30d will more than suffice - it still feels quick, completing 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds.

BMW X5 review

The X5 is a huge, robust car, with an optional third row of seats for larger families. The 620-litre boot is more than capable of carrying your holiday luggage, while the roomy cabin offers decent head and legroom for rear seat passengers.

However, the X5 fell to a disappointing 91st place in our 2013 Driver Power Satisfaction survey. Owners marked harshly for drive quality, with only two other cars ranking lower for this particular category in the whole survey. But with such huge proportions, it's no surprise that the X5 is a little slow to react steering-wise.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,640Avg. savings £2,419 off RRP*Used from £8,995
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £11,990Avg. savings £586 off RRP*Used from £9,000
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £39,045Avg. savings £4,673 off RRP*Used from £12,390
Toyota Yaris Cross
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Freelander 8's interior is an incredible screen-fest
New Freelander 8 - front

New Freelander 8's interior is an incredible screen-fest

Auto Express has confirmed the Freelander 8 will come to the UK in 2027… just don’t call it a Land Rover
News
10 Jul 2026
Used Toyota bZ4X (Mk1, 2021-date) buyer’s guide: EV is a second-hand bargain
Used Toyota bZ4X - front

Used Toyota bZ4X (Mk1, 2021-date) buyer’s guide: EV is a second-hand bargain

A full used buyer's guide on the Toyota bZ4X that has been on sale in the UK since 2021
Used car tests
12 Jul 2026
Car Deal of the Day: Mighty Audi RS 3 hyper hatch for only £425 a month
Audi RS 3 Sportback - front action

Car Deal of the Day: Mighty Audi RS 3 hyper hatch for only £425 a month

The RS 3 is a rare breed thanks to its fire-breathing five-pot, and our Deal of the Day for 11 July keeps it affordable
News
11 Jul 2026