The third-generation BMW X5 is as clean and economical as the German manufacturer’s SUV has ever been, and readers have voted it to the top for the seventh time.
The Range Rover Sport took the Large 4×4 title last year, but BMW’s offer of a two-wheel drive X5 blows the competition out of the water thanks to the lower emissions. The 2.0-litre diesel model has a CO2 output of 149g/km, putting it five categories lower for benefit-in-kind taxation than the lowest-priced four-wheel drive rivals.
As the best-handling model in the segment the X5 maintains BMW’s reputation for driving pleasure, but it also delivers on all the key areas including looks, practicality and luxury.
While residuals don’t reach the levels achieved by the Porsche Cayenne, the X5 retains 42.3%, and that, combined with lower service, maintenance and repair, fuel, and VED costs reduce the cost per mile to 84.0p. That’s 6p less than its closest rival, making it the cheapest to run.
Latest X5 customers can opt for BMW’s new eight-speed Steptronic transmission, which uses the car’s navigation system to work out what gear shifts will be needed next, improving efficiency and refinement.
