The Predecessor That Continued to Sell

While BMW is often associated with the 3 Series, the X series actually accounts for a significant portion of its sales. Astonishingly, it's reported that about one-third of all BMWs sold worldwide are X models.


The pioneer of this successful line is the newlyredesigned X5. Both the first generation released in 1999 and the evolved second generation in 2007 were major hits. It's said that sales continued to grow even last year, despite the new model being spotted in spy photos.—.

This is my second time behind the wheel of the new model, having driven it at the international press launch in Vancouver last September.


My impression then was of a wild drive through the vast Canadian wilderness. While the driving dynamics and various systems were precisely controlled, the overall feel was dynamic. The V8 model, in particular, delivered a thrilling surge of acceleration.


So, how does it perform in Japan?

The model available for this test drive is equipped solely with the 3-liter inline-six diesel engine. Known as the 30d overseas, the Japanese specification is called the "xDrive35d."



It produces 258 horsepower and 560 Nm of torque. As the torque curve shows, it delivers a flat torque band between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. Cruising at 80 km/h is achieved at 1,200-1,300 rpm. For comparison, the previous model had 245 horsepower and 540 Nm, representing an approximate 5% increase in power.

Tuned for the X5's Characteristics

Its performance felt perfectly suited to the car's character. Unlike the V8, it's not overtly flashy, offering a smooth yet occasionally powerful experience.BMWYou've likely heard about BMW's smooth diesel engines, but it bears repeating. The new model seems to have improved sound insulation, as there was no rattling noise at idle, even at traffic lights. Furthermore, after driving for a while, the idle stop system completely silences the engine. It's flawless. I personally believe that diesel engines are the ones that benefit most from idle stop technology.



The engine's responsiveness is equally impressive. Although the tachometer only goes up to 6,000 rpm, the feeling is light and exhilarating, as if it could rev endlessly. If you didn't tell a friend it was a diesel, they might not realize it even after driving.

The power steering setting also felt distinct. To be frank, it's heavier than what you might expect from BMW. I immediately switched to the " 4 Series" and noticed that its steering was noticeably lighter from the initial turn.


Of course, these differences are due to model-specific tuning. Lightening the power steering on a 2.2-ton vehicle like the X5 would introduce risks. If it were set the same as the 4 Series, the car's handling would likely be too quick. I imagine passengers in the rear seats of the X5 might experience motion sickness. Moreover, this vehicle can accommodate a hidden third row of seats. While these are temporary seats suitable for individuals up to 1.5 meters tall, considering the ride comfort for those passengers, perhaps a moderate level of "BMW-ness" is appropriate.


The upgrade to an 8-speed transmission is also significant news. Its operation is so natural that one might forget to mention it. Naturally, manual shifting is required for rapid acceleration, but otherwise, the shifts in AT mode are smooth and seamless. Furthermore, it promises improved fuel efficiency, which is always welcome. The catalog states a JC08 mode fuel economy of 13.8 km/l, a figure I'm eager to see realized.

Maintaining Ideal Proportions

The exterior design of the new model is more assertive than its predecessor, with a larger kidney grille and prominent headlights creating a strong presence. It embodies the "new generation face." By raising the grille, the hood appears longer, an effect emphasized by a slight increase in overall length. The vehicle's height has also been kept relatively low.

However, the concept for this redesign was to maintain the overall image. Given the X5's popularity, drastic changes were deemed unnecessary. Such innovations can be left to the X6. The dimensions are nearly identical to the previous model for this reason. From an engineering perspective, the X5's dimensions are considered ideal for this category.


The new X5 is equipped with the latestBMWtechnology, including Night Vision, Parking Assistant, camera systems, and Head-Up Display.

A closer look at the catalog reveals the sophistication of each of these technologies, all focused on active safety. This is where you feel the BMW essence – the joy of driving safely. Truly impressive!

BMW X5 xDrive35d

Body Dimensions: Length 4,910 x Width 1,940 x Height 1,760 mm

Wheelbase: 2,935 mm

Tread Front/Rear:

(SE, Standard) 1,645 / 1,650 mm

(xLine) 1,640 / 1,645 mm

(M Sport) 1,660 / 1,700 mm

Trunk Capacity: 650-1,870 liters (210-575 liters with third-row seats)

Weight:

(SE, Standard) 2,175 kg

(xLine) 2,200 kg

(M Sport) 2,210 kg

Engine: 2,992 cc Inline-6 DOHC Common Rail Direct Injection Turbo Diesel

Max. Output: 190 kW (258 ps) / 4,000 rpm

Max. Torque: 560 Nm / 1,500-3,000 rpm

Compression Ratio: 16.5

Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Brakes: Ventilated discs

Front Suspension: Double wishbone coil springs

Rear Suspension:

(SE, Standard, xLine) Integral-link coil springs

(M Sport) Integral-link electronically controlled air springs

Drivetrain: 4WD

Tires: 255/50R19

Minimum Turning Radius: 5.9 m

Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode): 13.8 km/l

Price: (SE) ¥7,920,000 (Standard) ¥8,210,000 (xLine) ¥8,640,000 (M Sport) ¥8,800,000