New BMW X5 review, road test

It’s the best X5 yet and local assembly has made it better value too.

Published on Oct 08, 2014 12:38:00 PM

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New BMW X5

Optional wheels look stunning but the low pro tyres make the ride rock-hard.

Harman Kardon audio system comes as standard; sounds great.

Navigation is capable of rendering 3D images of surrounding buildings.

Looking at the new X5, the feeling you get is that it isn’t a quantum leap ahead of its predecessor; it looks more like a pumped-up version of the older car than an all-new one. The nose is now a lot more prominent, with headlights that stretch up to the grille. The signature kidney grille looks bolder too, which, coupled with the tougher-looking bumper and distinct shoulder line, make this new X5 now look more expensive. Walking around to the rear, you’ll notice that apart from the new tail-lamps, it’s hard to spot the differences from the older car.

While its exterior styling isn’t considerably different from before, BMW has focussed its efforts under the skin and in the cabin. Starting with the mechanicals, most noteworthy is the switch from the hydraulic steering to an electric one. Also, in an effort to improve economy and performance, the body has lost a fair bit of flab – 110kg to be exact. But despite being lighter, the new X5 is stiffer and stronger too, thanks to the generous use of ultra-high-tensile steel in the monocoque body shell. Other lighweight materials include an aluminium bonnet and thermoplastic side panels. But, tipping the scales at a hefty 2,070kg, the new X5 certainly won’t qualify as a bantamweight.