The actual ride and handling part is where it truly shines. The 2,190-kilogram kerb weight of the BMW X5 evaporates on the move with a dash from standstill to 100 km/h completed in a claimed 6.1 seconds; all four wheels clawing in as xDrive splits the torque for maximum acceleration. The linking of the electronic differential brake with the brakes themselves linked to the stability control system allow for some truly unbelievable cornering antics. The (presumably front) tyres squeal in protest as the fat rear 315s hold strong when I literally throw it into a bend at 80 km/h without a second thought. The behaviour is surprisingly brilliant—and not just for a large car. The confidence the X5 inspires in the driver is fantastic. It can also go anywhere and handle all sorts of surfaces. The air suspension offers five levels of lift with, at its highest setting, nearly 280 millimetres of ground clearance and an approach angle of over 25 degrees. That makes for peace of mind, no matter how high or ungainly the speed-hump, potholes or roadworks.
That’s just it. The way the X5 puts me in control and makes me feel like I’m calling the shots, with lightning-quick responses and precise handling dynamics only making my smile wider as I explore how much more outrageous antics I can get it to do. The limit seems like a movable barrier each time; moving further away from what I choose to do. It’s a driver’s car through and through. Of course, at Rs 1.09 crore and 50k over that (ex-showroom), it should pleasantly surprise and it should make you feel like the king of the road. And it does.
The X5’s handling prowess, ease of finding its way through traffic—okay, snaking—shows how well calibrated a vehicle it is. Electronics are unavoidable these days, but there still are buttons in the interface. I have stubby powered seat controls, cooled and heated front seats, a huge dual-pane sunroof, the snazzy curved display ahead, adaptive cruise control, switchable lane departure warning with steering assist, and the two-piece split power tailgate—all of which make it seem like a worthy choice given the asking price and the feel and functionality on offer. The ride quality, cabin quality, fit-and-finish, and the choice of material reflect its premium luxury nature and, clearly, mark it out as the segment benchmark. Plus, it feels like a 5 Series on the move. Just higher. Like an X5 should.
Boot is a generous 650 litres; expands to as much as 1,870 litres with the 40:20:40 rear seat folded
Need to Know – BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport
Price: Rs 1.09 crore (ex-showroom)
Engine: 2,993 cc, in-line six, 48-volt mild-hybrid, turbo-diesel
Max Power: 286 hp @ 4,000 rpm
Max Torque: 650 Nm @ 1,500-2,500 rpm
ISG Assist: 8.0 kW (11 hp), NA Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Suspension: Double wishbone front, multi-link rear, air springs
Weight: 2,190 kg
