BMW X5 3.0D Sport Review

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BMW X5 3.0D Sport
3.7 stars
Average rating for this product is: 3.7 out of 5

From 2 ratings and 6 reviews

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Jasper's Review of BMW X5 3.0D Sport

9th Jan 2009

Overall Rating

4 stars
  • Value for money
    3.5 stars
  • Length of ownership
    4.5 years
  • Performance
    4 stars
  • Reliability
    3.5 stars
  • Year Manufactured
    52
  • Doors
    5
  • Practicality
    4.5 stars
Good Points

Luggage space is amazing. It can take 3 children, a double buggy, a hold all and 3 standard suitcases on hols. Its deceptively spacious, we have struggled with same luggage in hired 7 seaters with rear seats removed.

handling is just amazing for a 2 ton car. Its happy on the B roads.

Low cabin noise.

It still has good presentation despite the years and mileage.

But for me the most important good point is that it still feels special to drive.


Bad Points

I have replaced the turbo for £1k. It went on mine at 65k miles. No drama when it went, just a massive loss of power.

Two injectors on mine were replaced at £500 a throw. This happened at 38k and 56k miles. Apparently BMW say not to run tank very low as this doesnt help. No problem since replacement.

Replacing front indicator bulbs is a pain requiring a couple of hours work for each.

The front wheel gaiters on mine split (twice) and meant it failed MOT. It seems unlike BMW not to have remedied this product. Its a pain to replace, as wheels have to come off.

Rear light bulb fittings on mine become contaminated requiring regular attention.


General Comments

I have owned my BMW X5 3.0 D Sport for 4 and a half years now. It was bought second hand for £30k from a BMW franchise dealer on a 52 plate with 23k miles. It now has 90k. Its a quality car and I am happy with it. Ok its depreciated but I aim to keep it. Maintenance costs work out cheaper than my previous Honda Accord car. Once the warranty ran out I took it to a BMW specialist garage. Mine narrowly ranges bewteen 22.4 and 23.3, running fast or slow, heavy or light makes little difference. I have never towed. A set of 4 x recommended bridgestones are around £450 in total. They last about 18 months in my experience.

All in all, I have not messed about in it, Ive used it as an everyday vehicle as well as on long distant holidays. It stands outside all weathers and looks as good as new when cleaned up. I would describe the X5 as good all rounder. The defect / repair costs (as stated) have cost about £2.5k over 4.5 years. The benefits of owning an X5 for me easily outweighs this.

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