2011 BMW X5 Review
Price
from: RM568,800
to: RM918,800
Installment
from: RM5,425/mth
to: RM8,763/mth
2011 BMW X5 at a glance
The BMW X5 was, and still is, the definitive on-road SUV. The on-road brilliance is matched by loads of the latest technology. Add the well-proportioned styling and the 2011 BMW X5 makes a compelling proposition.
2011 BMW X5 quick specs
| Body Style | SUV |
| Class | Large Luxury Utility |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
2011 BMW X5 ratings (overall rating : 4/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
It is nice to see a BMW without the usual controversy surrounding its looks. In fact, the BMW X5 has been doing well on the design front since it started life. The second and current generation merely improved on the winning looks with larger dimensions. Overall, the 2011 BMW X5 looks muscular, well-proportioned and generally well-designed. Inside, the inviting cabin has a classy ambience with an uncluttered dashboard.
Handling
Simply put, the 2011 BMW X5 is the second-best on-road handling SUV out there, just after the Porsche Cayenne. Despite its bulk, the BMW X5 is agile, its body control well-contained through a series of bends. It is easy to forget that the 2011 BMW X5 is actually a large SUV judging from the way it grips with bite, and how it steers with precision. Using double-wishbone suspension instead of the previous McPherson struts, BMW has managed to improve on the previous outstanding X5. Off-road performance is however just average, and unsuitable for hardcore off-road action.
Comfort
Ride quality is now compliant, and much improved over the previous BMW X5's firm ride. Cabin refinement is as good as any luxury sedans, with minimal wind and road intrusions at all speeds. Engine is hushed except when hurried. Drivers sit high for good all-round visibility, while the many adjustments for the steering wheel and large supportive seats allow drivers of any height to get comfortable. What is more of a concern is how the controls, from hand-brake to gear-lever and especially iDrive controller, need time to learn and use.
Quality + Reliability
Using fine-grade quality materials pieced together with attention to details yields an inviting and classy cabin. Overall interior quality befits the 2011 BMW X5's high-end luxury status. BMW models have a good reliability record, and the 2011 BMW X5 should continue that. Still, with the great deal of underlying technology, mechanical soundness may no longer be sufficient as much more has the potential to go wrong.
Performance
Using smooth six-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic, the three engines deliver strong performances, yet consume less fuel than before. The 3.0-litre diesel powers with 520 Nm of torque from a low 2000 rpm, hardly ever feeling out of pull. The 3.0-litre petrol is yet another accomplished contender, but at the same price, similarly refined and more efficient, the diesel stands out with power and torque peaking much sooner. Of course, with 355 bhp, the 4.8-litre petrol performs forcefully, however the cost-a-limb pricing will deter most.
Roominess
The driver and four passengers in the first two rows enjoy plenty of head- and leg-room, but the third row can only seat small adults or kids. Interior room is smaller than the Audi Q7 and Land Rover Discovery 3, both which are able to seat seven in relative comfort. Also, the third row is not protected by airbags. Boot capacity is surprisingly slightly smaller than the 2010 BMW X3's, although it should be more than adequate for most outing purposes, aided by rear seats that can 60:40 split and fold.
Running Costs
With the latest direct injection technology, the 2011 BMW X5 has above-average fuel economy among large SUVs. Expectedly, the 3.0 diesel easily has the best fuel consumption figure among the three models at 11.5 km/litre. Maintenance will be costly, but typically long service intervals should help. Road taxes in thousands of ringgit will be dwarfed by the huge insurance bill. Considering BMW's brand desirability, and the X5's positive feedback, depreciation should be kept in check.
Value for Money
The Porsche Cayenne sells upwards of RM 550K, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class from RM 556K and the Audi Q7 from RM 550K. At RM 569K, the 2011 BMW X5 could well be the best compromise between price and ability. The Cayenne may be the best-handling, but the BMW X5 is more comfortable to be in. The M-Class's dynamic ability seems lacklustre in this company. The Q7 does offer a convincing alternative with great build quality and commendable handling, but pity the overly-bulky looks.
Equipment
High-tech gadgets include hill descent control, park distance control, all-wheel xDrive system, rear self-leveling suspension system, roll-over sensors and active steering. 18-inch wheels, run-flat tyres, foglights, rain sensors, xenon headlights, panoramic glass roof, iDrive controller, colour monitor and multi-function audio system are standard. 4.8i adds 20-inch wheels, adaptive drive and head-up display among others. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including anti-lock braking system, brake assist and traction control, and airbags are standard.
Environment
Although market trends have only started heading the direct injection technology way, BMW has taken the lead in this aspect for some time now. And they are reaping the rewards with the 2011 BMW X5's new engines using less fuel and producing lower carbon dioxide emissions than previous comparable ones. 3.0d emits 214 g/km, 3.0si emits 244 g/km and 4.8i emits 286 g/km, all three are excellent numbers for their engine capacity. To cause less environmental harm, choose the diesel. Or skip the SUV.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Nice exterior proportions
Brilliant to drive for its size
Handy high-tech gadgets
Third row is limited in room
Mediocre off-road abilities
Costly to buy and run, though above average
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