BMW X5 M50d F15

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In 2013 the BMW X5 F15 is available with a choice of five turbocharged engines (four diesels and one petrol), a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox and the option of two- or four-wheel drive (sDrive and xDrive). There are two trim levels: SE and M Sport.

The X5 M50d (the sportiest and highest diesel version) is fitted with the same 3-litre six-cylinder engine as the X5 30d, but in the M50d the engine is tuned differently and produces 381 hp and 545 Nm of torque. With these figures the 3-tonne car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds. If you want to hear the imposing rumble of a petrol V8, there is the 4.4-litre xDrive50i with 450 hp.

The standard suspension is a little soft, which is why the car leans too much in corners. With the Adaptive Dynamic suspension package, however, this problem disappears.

Meanwhile, the revised xDrive four-wheel-drive system still does its job of sending torque to each wheel based on road conditions, speed and steering angle. This helps to prevent understeer and oversteer.

Inspecting the BMW X5 40D

As standard, the BMW X5 comes with Dynamic Drive Control, offering a choice of four settings, Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport and Sport +, which are selected with a switch on the centre console. The difference between them is considerable. Eco Pro saves you a little fuel by dulling the throttle response and adjusting the climate control, while the “Sport” and “Sport+” modes sharpen the throttle, the gear changes and the steering.

High-quality materials are used throughout, and there is subtle interior lighting whose colours you can change to your taste. The build quality is exceptional.

The iDrive infotainment system has a 10.2-inch screen that can be split to show two different functions at the same time (map and radio, for example).

Other highlights include options such as headrest displays, a panoramic sunroof and a heated second row of seats. The BMW parking assistant provides a 360-degree view around the car and, if necessary, can park the car for you.

The BMW X5 M50d we bought

• Vehicle details
• Equipment

Exterior photos of the BMW X5 M50d