Launched: BMW X5 3.0sd

Wheels Magazine
April, 2008

There's no doubt this is one of the less anticipated launches of 2008. On the surface it's merely a new engine derivative of BMW's luxury all-wheel-drive wagon (and a diesel at that), but there is more here than at first meets the eye.

What BMW is attempting to do here is offer the same sort of performance options on the diesel side of the equation as it does on the petrol side. So while an X5 petrol engine buyer can choose either a six-cylinder or V8, a diesel customer can now opt for either single- or twin-turbo versions of the 3.0-litre diesel.

It's an intriguingly different way for BMW to spread the sporting appeal and raise the performance image of diesel. Rivals, like Audi and Range Rover, have instead opted for more cylinders - as well as more turbos.

Diesel already accounts for 70 percent of X5 sales and BMW doesn't expect the 'sd' to actually add to volume, predicting about 500 customers a year who would have most likely otherwise bought a 3.0d.

The engine has only just come on stream in the second-generation X5 (after debuting in the 5 Series back in 2004) and in Australia it's offered only in the upper Executive specification, at a $6500 premium over the single turbo version. Seems one heck of a surcharge considering the petrol 3.0si Executive is only $1800 cheaper than the 3.0d version.

Compared to 'd', 'sd' delivers an extra 40kW and 65Nm and has bigger brakes. Meanwhile, there's a negligible rise in combined fuel consumption (from 8.7L/100km to 8.8L/100km), and kerb weight (2075 to 2110kg).

Driving via ZF's excellent six-speed auto and the variable torque split xDrive AWD system, BMW claims the 3.0sd nails 0-100km/h in 7.2sec. If accurate, then it's a big leap from the 8.9sec achieved by the 3.0d when Wheels tested it last year.

Once up and rolling, that extra shove isn't glaringly obvious - at least not without a 3.0d on hand for direct comparison. However, there's no doubt the twin turbo delivers better response low-down, reducing the single turbo's slight tardiness from a standing start.

Perhaps the best way to appreciate the sd's advantages is to option the $4500 Sport package with firmer suspension and lower-profile 19-inch rubber. The flatter cornering stance encourages more pursuit of the engine's substantial punch. Again though, the standard X5 is the best handler in its class so this is a step rather than leap forward.

Bottom line? If you can afford a 3.0sd, then we can't think any reason not to go ahead and buy one.

More research
BMW X5 3.0sd -- Carsales Network's launch review: here

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