New 2013 BMW X5 review, test drive

The new BMW X5 incorporates a host of subtle tweaks that improve it on the whole. We drive the turbo-petrol V8 and six-cylinder diesel variants.

Published on Nov 22, 2013 05:02:00 PM

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A big improvement is the ride quality, which is fantastic. True, the smooth roads of British Columbia make it hard to judge otherwise but, even on the small imperfections we found, the suspension (even in the stiffest Sport mode) always had an underlying suppleness to it.

The steering too was quite a revelation. Most owners would find it hard to tell that the hydraulic steering has been replaced by an electric one. The steering is pretty feelsome and, at speed, offers lots of feedback and confidence without much of the inertness you would associate with an electrically-assisted unit.

The new X5 will be launched at the Auto Expo next February and is expected to go on sale in March 2014. With its beefed-up looks, improved dynamics and plusher interiors, the X5 has the goods to take a fresh stab at the premium luxury class and, if priced right, come out on top.