The first generation BMW X5 was around for seven years before BMW replaced it in 2006 with the current car that, on the face of it, looked very similar. But don’t be fooled – the company merely opted not to greatly change the appearance of what has been a very successful car . Underneath, this latest X5 is very much new, and a much better car – it retains most of what made the old car so popular (its interior quality and ability to entertain keen drivers), but has improved spaciousness and, most importantly, comfort. It remains a vehicle aimed very much at on-road use rather than off-road, though it acquits itself well enough here that it makes a good tow-car. It is also not too expensive to run. BMW has worked very hard on the all-important diesel engines, and both the 30d and 40d models are now below 200 g/km of CO2. That is a remarkably low figure for a luxury SUV with over 240 bhp.
