Are BMW X5 Diesel Engines Reliable? (& How Good Are They)

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The BMW X5 made its debut in 1999 with the E53 model. This Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) has an ultra-low sulfur diesel engine. Have you ever wondered whether the diesel engines for the X5 are reliable and how good they are?

BMW X5 diesel engines are very reliable and powerful, giving an optimized road performance. Each variant has various engines for one to choose what works better for them. Besides fuel saving, the car offers exquisite and fast driving experiences. 

There are four generations of the X5, and the 2019 model was the benchmark for this high-performance SAV. Engine options for this car include:

  • Turbocharged six-cylinder with 300 hp and 300 lb-ft
  • Diesel six-cylinder with 255 hp and 413 lb-ft
  • Plug-in hybrid with 308 hp and 332 lb-ft
  • Powerful V8 with 445 hp and 480 lb-ft

How Reliable Are BMW X5 Diesel Engines?

BMW X5 diesel engines are very reliable and durable regardless of the volume. Some may require attention to small oil leaks, brittle hoss, and sensitive sensors. However, any vehicle can withstand these issues. 

Diesel is more advantageous for bigger cars making it the de facto standard for large transport vehicles. Moving an X5 requires significant power and torque. You get better performance with diesel with higher torque and power at low Revolutions Per Minute (RPM). 

Diesel engines are incredibly reliable, especially 3.0 – liter engines with a turbocharged or twin scroll variant. Fuel efficiency makes an X5 diesel engine reliable. The engine is 30% more efficient than its gas counterparts, making it great for long commutes. 

How Do BMW X5 Variants Perform?

The X5 changed significantly over the years. Power and performance have continuously trended up throughout its generations. BMW has something for everyone across its E53, GO5, F15, and E70 generations. The GO5 has an engine with improved reliability than other variants. 

Most popular in the range is the xDrive30d with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine that outputs 265hp and 620Nm of torque. The M50d has a more powerful 3.0-liter diesel engine to produce 400hp and 760Nm of torque. It sprints from 0 to 62mph in 5.2 seconds. 

The X5 2023 delivers performance at par with BMW’s racing pedigree. Besides confident handling, it has a powerful engine and smooth shift transmission. The optional V8s offer sportscar-like performance. 

The X5 will give you a swift kick in the back and catapult seamlessly forward when you plant your right foot. The car works through its sleek eight-speed auto gearbox swiftly and smoothly. Its engine provides a meaty soundtrack without becoming too raucous.

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How Good Are BMW X5 Diesel Engines?

The X5 diesel engine has various positive things that prove its reliability. No wonder the German vehicle inspection service gave it an above-average score in the roadworthiness tests undertaken in 2022. 

Various Power Engine Variants

The X5 engine with twin power turbo booster is a result of the company’s advanced dual technology. BMW produced this model with a fine combination of performance relying on its patented technologies. 

Its six-cylinder motor has a peak torque of 413lb-ft to pull the vehicle on different tracks. Two diesel engines with four power variants make the lineup quite interesting. There are also three petrol engines with their own pulling factors to give consumers a choice. 

Exquisite Driving Experience

Sleek eight-speed transmission offers a more exquisite driving experience. The auto transmission allows enjoying more time without a lot of engagement. A 2022 model has shed more weight to allow movement with enhanced agility. 

Handling is a breeze and crips with magnificent body control in the corners. You always drive with confidence thanks to the car’s cool features. 

Makes Fast Driving A Reality

Despite not being an off-road option and exposure to disturbing wind and road noise on the highway at high speed, this vehicle will live up to your expectations with time. A basic X5 25d has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that outputs 225hp to make 63mph in 7.7 seconds. 

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Its most potent lineup is a 3.0 liter that outputs 308hp, which reaches the speed mark in 5.8 seconds. The 50d outputs 375hp and sprints much faster, reaching the speed mark in an impressive 5.3 seconds. 

Quick And Smooth Ride With An Auto Gearbox

All engines offer quick and smooth performance for having an automatic gearbox. However, the time to reach a point in a straight line differs. 

Another difference is how much you pay for each model. The car interior is built to impress, backed by a classy feel. Apart from standard cabin features, off-market enhancements don’t come cheap. 

Striking Dashboard

Another outstanding feature of the X5 is its striking dashboard in the cabin. There’s a 10” high-definition screen for the infotainment and SAT navigation. These are managed using an iDrive system near the gear stick. 

A touch-sensitive pad also understands speech commands for a hands-free experience. The high seats offer a clear view of the X5’s long bonnet. However, the seat and steering are adjustable to a preferred position for a splendid driving experience. 

Conclusion

The BMW X5 is an SUV worth every penny. It offers impressive handling and disguises its size very well around corners. This luxurious and relaxed machine has a diesel engine that optimizes fuel saving, especially for long commutes, while each variant has various engine options.

Author

  • Vedran

    Vedran, is a long-time expert in the field of automotive repair. After completing school for car mechanics, Vedran has amassed years of experience working on all types of vehicles. In addition to running Vedran’s own successful car repair service, Vedran is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others and helping people take better care of their cars.