2009 BMW X5 Review & Road Test
April 14, 2009 by Matt Brogan
2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d Review & Road Test
Take family motoring seriously
Model Tested:
- 2009 BMW E70 X5 xDrive35d Steptronic, 3.0-litre, turbo diesel, six-speed automatic, wagon: $105,490 (RRP)
Options:
- Metallic Paint $2000 (Fitted – Carbon Black); M Sport Package $8000 (Fitted); Panorama Glass Sunroof $3708 (Fitted); Self-levelling Suspension $2118 (Fitted); Auto Tailgate $1271 (Fitted); USB Audio Interface $635 (Fitted)
Torquey & economical engine; high grip levels; quiet & comfortable
Dull low beam headlamps; poor rear view camera; Firm steering
CarAdvice Rating: 
- Pics by Matt Brogan & Brendan Nish
Although it might have become a little familiar, the much lauded X5’s revised shape lends it an almighty on-road presence thanks to its wider proportions, bold stance, subtle creases and unmistakable family face.
It’s a rather serious looking SUV, almost ominous, but after one drive you’ll very quickly discover that the X5 isn’t all show and no go.
Yet while it does indeed look imposing externally, the X5’s innards are light, spacious and well plotted with a practical and comfortable feel to all facets of the cabin’s utility.
Seating is both generously proportioned and supportive, an unusual but welcomed trait for an SUV, while the driver’s vantage is commanding and panoramic offering great all round visibility.
Similarly all controls and ancillaries fall readily to hand and are quite simple of function with the possible exception of the now superseded version of the iDrive system.
The only real bother of any note came from the low beams headlamps, which were a little too weak for my liking, and from the rear view camera which is virtually useless in wet weather and at night, combine the two and it’s a compete waste of time.
On the options front the X5 packs a wallop, featuring Cruise Control (with brake function), Brake Hold, Front & Rear Parking Sensors, Fog Lamps, Alloy Wheels, Rain Sensing Wipers, Automatic Headlamps, Roof Rails, Automated (optional) Split Fold Tailgate, Six CD Tuner, Dual Zone Climate Control, Satellite Navigation and TV with Voice Control, Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror, Bluetooth Connectivity (that didn’t work with my phone), iPod (USB) Interface, Trip Computer and Electrically Adjustable Seats and Steering Wheel (with Memory), just to name a few.
Our test vehicle was also optioned with the Panoramic Glass Roof which, if you can afford the extra coin, is a highly worthwhile option in my opinion. It can operate purely as a glass roof, as a twin-tilt louvre or as a retractable sunroof meaning maximum enjoyment no matter the weather. It also lends the cabin a light and airy ambiance that makes long drives exceptionally pleasant.
Up the back a split-fold tailgate, in this case automated, opens to reveal a cavernous cargo compartment offering 670 litres with seats up (to window height) or mammoth 1750 litres all told. A pair of seriously heavy-duty tie-down rails, a retractable cargo cover with vertical net and an underfloor storage space that also houses the spare wheel round out the deal.
If that’s not enough, the X5 comes standard with (matt black) roof rails and can be configured to tow up to 2700kg (braked).
The drive on offer, as we’ve come to expect from most of the BMW range, is quite rewarding, and the constant all-wheel drive coupled with a taut chassis and self-levelling suspension provide the X5 with astounding grip levels, well beyond that expected of a family SUV.
Cornering therefore is capable and confident, seemingly no matter what the elements throw at you, with steering that offers very good feel and feedback even if the level of assistance could be slightly more amenable.
Braking is strong and balanced with a progressive pedal allowing the 2110kg wagon to be brought to a stop in a smooth, confident and comfortable fashion. Applying the stoppers at 80km/h saw a distance of 23.9 metres covered before we came to a standstill – not bad!
Under the bonnet a 3.0-litre, in-line, common-rail, twin turbo-diesel, six cylinder engine provides more than ample motivation for a car of such proportions developing 210kW of power at 4400rpm and a solid 580Nm of torque from just 1750rpm.
There is no turbo lag to speak of, only a delightful six-speed automatic that is smooth, decisive and amiably calibrated to throttle input propelling the X5 from 0-100km/h in 7.0 seconds flat and on to a top speed of 235km/h.
Fuel economy too is a strong point for the diesel X5 and although our results didn’t prove quite as optimistic as the manufacturer’s claim, we did achieve a respectable 10.9 litres per 100km average combining a 50:50 split of city and highway driving.
Considering the X5’s family orientation, safety is of course a paramount concern with our xDrive35d model featuring front, side and curtain airbags; ABS braking with CBC (cornering brake control), EBA and EBD; HDC (hill descent control); and ESP with Traction Control to tally an impressive five-star European NCAP rating and five-star Australian ANCAP rating.
So while a few of the features may be beginning to date, the X5 remains an imposing and accomplished SUV with both the substance and the panache to be considered a worthy investment for any family who takes its motoring seriously.
Ratings:
CarAdvice Overall Rating:
How does it Drive:
How does it Look:
How does it Go:
Specifications:
- Engine: 2993cc DOHC six-cylinder (24 valve)
- Power: 210kW @ 4400rpm
- Torque: 580Nm @ 1750rpm
- Induction: Common-rail & turbocharged
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic
- Driven Wheels: All
- Brakes: Discs with ABS, CBC, EBA & EBD
- Top Speed: 235km/h
- 0-100km/h: 7.0 seconds
- CO2 Emissions: 233 grams per kilometre
- Fuel Consumption: 8.8 litres per 100km (ADR Combined)
- Fuel Consumption: 10.9 litres per 100km (As Tested)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 85 litres
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- ANCAP Rating: Five star
- Airbags: Front, side & curtain
- Safety: ESP with Traction Control & HDC
- Spare Wheel: Space saver
- Suspension: Strut (F)/Multi-Link (R)
- Cargo Capacity: 670/1750 litres
- Tow Capacity: 2700kg (Braked)
- Turning Circle: 12.8 metres
- Warranty: Three Year/Unlimited Kilometre
- Weight: 2110kg (Tare)
- Wheels: Alloy 18 x 8.5-inch
Road Test the Rivals:
- Audi Q7 (from $81,223)
- Range Rover Sport (from $90,900)
- Mercedes-Benz M-Class (from $81,000)
- Porsche Cayenne (from $100,500)
- Volkswagen Touareg (from $65,490)
- Volvo XC90 (from $71,950)
Print it: 
These things look fantastic on the road, they have a style that the previous model didn’t, it always felt a bit bland before. This new model is much more imposing.
a 100K+ car with dodgy low beam? don’t these come with xenons?
I may sound like a broken record, but what is the point of these vehicles?
7 seats and luxury together
I noticed the RX350 isn’t on the competition list =P
Riceboy – Nup. It’s this reason that makes the X5 and ML roflmao worthy. Options, Options, one minute it’s $90K, the next it’s $130K loaded, let’s just hope one has deep pockets. (Although, if you go for the top of the line model, that actually comes with more standards, but that mean’s you needa be ready to fork out that $130K… + extra’s =|)
This engine puts out very impressive figures, both power and fuel economy and when it’s priced close to something like an ML350 or RX350, you have to ask yourself why you would buy the competition when you’ve got an engine this good. But those options could really hurt the bank account, the price of this X5 with the options above is practically the price you’ll pay for an RX350 Sports Luxury (that is, loaded) including on-road.
Options, Options….
i just brought a new x5 and spent over 12000 uk pounds on extras. the top of the line speaker system cost me 1700 pounds
Acfsambo, It’s because many like a high riding height when they’re just doing they’re evryday driving and because depending on what you’re carrying, they can be a lot more practicle than a station wagon. As of now, they are also probably still a bit safer if somebody smashed into the side of you because everybody’s sitting higher up.
I love X5s, minus the M Sport package. I think they are very handsome cars and probably reacted the best to “flam surfacing”. And they’ve been made to be more tasteful now by the fact that you could have bought an X6 instead, but you didn’t. They are great for families and so much better than the horrid Lexus.
They’re also cheap to run and have decent handling. They are still the best soft roaders on the market I think thanks to quality, practicality, drive, running costs and looks. Just my opinion anyway.
Wow, no mention of the fact this is a twin-turbo diesel. Seems a bit of a glaring omission, no?
Definitely one of the better SUV options out there, I think I’d have to take the ML with Offroad Pro Pack though. I’d prefer my 4wd dimensioned car to be able to perform moderate 4wd duties. If the ML450 hybrid makes it down here, even better!
The article does mention the Twin-turbo:
“Under the bonnet a 3.0-litre, in-line, common-rail, twin turbo-diesel, six cylinder engine provides more than ample motivation for a car of such proportions developing 210kW of power at 4400rpm and a solid 580Nm of torque from just 1750rpm”.
Twin Turbo…………geez dats nufin!
‘Rumour has it that BMW is considering the development of a Euro-market high performance diesel variant of the X5, which will sit below the recently released X5 M.
What’s really interesting, however, is that BMW may end up fitting said vehicle with not one, not two, but three turbochargers. The more the merrier, I guess.
The recipient for this trio of turbos would be BMW’s tried-and-true 3.0 litre diesel inline six, which in twin-turbo form currently generates a healthy 210kW (286hp) and 559Nm (413lb-ft). The addition of an extra huffer is expected to boost output to a grunty 260kW, however it’s unclear whether the turbochargers will be run sequentially, in parallel or in a combination of the two.”"
Looks tough and from the sounds of it goes alright too! Nice one BMW.
Interesting to see the fuel economy figures for a big heavy beast too – very impressive.
Yep I’ve heard Mercedes are working on their new twin turbo 3.0 diesel that makes just north of 310 h.p. which is just over 230KW.
Maybe they should skip that generation of engine and just go straight to a quad turbo diesel, LOL.
weakness – price
Zero, how is price a weakness? If it was a Toyota then yes but you don’t expect bargain prices from BMW do you? It’s big, spacious, good quality and a good drive with one of the best engines in the world. I would say it’s quite reasonably priced.
Is this the only car in this class with no off road credentials? Range Rover Sport, Cayenne, even the Merc can see a bit of rough stuff.
Alex, I think the issue with price is that for the standard model, they are reasonably priced, but when you add some options, the price sky rockets. Like really, $2,000- for metallic paint? Thats just a shameless grab for cash.
Great car – the boss wishes he’s written a cheque to BMW instead of Range Rover. I question why a RR V8 diesel can only do 9.3secs to 100kmh when this does 7seconds.
Another reason for folk wanting these Acfsambo is they tow well.
Not so great off road. I saw one recently on the moor in ice stranded on a small slope with 4 wheels spinning, towed out by a Discovery no less.
Andrew, the thing is that it’s just not meant to go off road. People can still look at the shape and think off roader if they want but it’s just body work and all wheel drive for grip and dignity.
How many X5 owners would ever want to anyway?
SteveH, most of the options are unnecessary anyway. I’ll agree that’s bad value for paint on a car that costs that much but do you really need all the other stuff? Tempting though most of it is, the panoramic sunroof will be closed 95% of the time, the suspension will never be noticed and do you really need an automatic tailgate? Is it so hard to just pull it down? And the people who can’t imagine closing the boot themselves will have the money anyway.
BMWs almost always come with all you need and more, it’s just that they offer other stuff that makes you think. If a CD player wasn’t standard that would be silly but you do get all you need and then some.
X5-an overpriced 4×4 wannabe.
This is the only 4×4 I’d consider buying, well, if money is no object. BMW actually started the first handsome SUV in the original X5, and this looks even better. It has also improved in practicality, and while not being a serious off-roader, it combines the convenience of high-riding and car-like performance and handling. The petrol engines are thirsty so diesels are the way to go. Hefty taxes ruin a vehicle with otherwise great value. It’s very nice to sit on; you feel very special holding the best steering wheels in the world.
I just wish I could own one, then I’d take out the mudguards as a start.
I have a new X5 best car ever the lights are fine on mine its got all the fruit 160 grand al up great car cant go past a BMW the reveiw camera is fine if u have sensors
I agree with Al Juraj, this 2009 BMW X5 is one of the 3 SUV cars I’m considering buying if money is not an issue. From its external design, interior and performance, I can’t ask for more. I only hope I have the money to buy this car now.
This has always been one of my favorite BMW’s and SUV’s its just the price tag that gets me from buying it. If it wasn’t for that I would have bought one already. :)
I’m thinking about getting a 4×4 for travelling around Oz when I retire soon. I have been a long time BMW owner and am looking seriously at an X5 (diesel). I’ve studied all the blogs about D3s, LCs and have already discarded Pajeros and Patrols. Most of the time I would be on bitumen but would go along dirt roads at some times obviously. I can’t find any reports about the reliability of X5s which do some dirt work. My service guy says the X5 would be ideal – he might just want to keep me as a customer. A D3 would seem to be very appropriate but I probably don’t need the serious off-road credentials it provides. Any advice would be appreciated.
Is it me, or does the Audi Q7 look heaps better?!
It’s just you.. Sure the X5 isn’t what you could call attractive; but its better than the Q7 which looks like a Audi Wagon which has been jacked up and stretched out of proportion.
Having said that I think BMW should drop the X5 as they have just released the much sportier looking X6 which appears to be selling better than what a lot of people [on here] expected.
Jacked up………my ass Wheelnut!
I saw an Audi Q7 sitting next to an RS6 Wagon at the local Audi dealer last week and there didn’t appear to be that much difference between the two..
Except for the ride height of the Q7 and its more flared guards which make it look slightly longer and wider [which it is but only just] Apart from that they are virtually the same
Whereas the Cayenne doesn’t look like a Jacked up 911.. the ML500 doesn’t look like a Jacked up E Class Estate and the BMW X6 doesn’t look like a Jacked up 5 Series
That’s my point.
I’m with you Mumbleduck, the Q7 looks better. If you are going to buy one of these pretend European off-roaders, you might as well go for the most imposing.
Thankyou Tom. That’s the only point of them anyway, so yes you are right.
If You want imposing go for the Hummer or a Chevy Silverado Dual Cab [like Iron-hide] or a Ford F-Series Maxx or what about a Freightliner?
I also think the Q7 is the best looking one outta all the euro luxo SUV’s. It’s got a nice futurist look to it but on bad days it could look like a flying sci-fi Nike shoe. I still like the X6 the best but that’s not really an SUV according to BMW…
The Cayenne is the worst of them all. What was Porsche thinking with the looks of that thing. It’s like a frankensteined 911 front attached to a Kluger body.
X5’s when they were first out looked exactly like jacked up Bimmer sedans, nowadays they look pretty cool perhaps too wide. It’s wider than Landcruisers and Range Rovers.
Wheelnut, what about an European Imposer? Not american!!!
really X5 is a big Car Model and beautifu l Model
Damn Guys, you have all got me confused shall i buy one or Not!
Please advise,
Thanks
Amer Islam
down under sydney Austalia