BMW X5 E53 LCI, facelift 2003 3.0d (218 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.9 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 4.5 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BMW X5:

The BMW X5 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV produced by BMW. The X5 made its debut in 1999 as the E53 model. It was BMW's first SUV. At launch, it featured all-wheel drive and was available with either a manual or automatic gearbox. The second generation was launched in 2006, and was known internally as the E70. The E70 featured the torque-split capable xDrive all-wheel drive system mated to an automatic gearbox. In 2009, the X5 M performance variant was released as a 2010 model.
BMW marketed the X5 officially as a "Sports Activity Vehicle" , rather than an SUV, to indicate its on-road handling capability despite its large dimensions. The X5 signaled a shift away from the utilisation of body-on-frame construction, in favour of more modern monocoque chassis construction. Although the Mercedes-Benz M-Class was introduced more than a year prior to the X5, the X5 was the first to utilise a monocoque chassis. The M-Class used body-on-frame construction until its second generation....(Read more on Wikipedia)

E53 LCI, facelift 2003 Overview:

BMW X5 (E53 LCI, facelift 2003). With 500 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.4 l/100km). At around 2170 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.3 s). The top speed reaches 210 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

3.0d (218 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Excellent torque delivery from the M57D30 diesel, providing strong acceleration and effortless cruising, especially for a heavy SUV.

Fuel Economy

Impressive fuel economy for its class and power output, making it the most economical choice for long-distance driving.

Best Use Case: Highway / Mixed Driving

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Strong engine lineup with both powerful V8s and efficient diesels.
  • • Premium interior quality and comfortable ride.
  • • Excellent handling for an SUV of its size.
  • • Robust build quality and timeless design.
  • • Capable all-wheel-drive system.

Cons:

  • • High fuel consumption for petrol V8 models.
  • • Maintenance costs can be significant as the vehicle ages.
  • • Rear passenger space is adequate but not class-leading.
  • • Some common issues with suspension components and electronics.
  • • Steering can feel heavy at low speeds.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E53: 2000 - 2003).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:X5
Generation:E53 LCI, facelift 2003
Modification (Engine):3.0d (218 Hp)
Start of production:2003
End of production:2006
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:218 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:72.8 Hp/l [1mm more]
Torque:500 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M57D30 More details about the engine M57D30
Engine displacement:2993
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:8.25 l
Coolant:10.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm
Piston Stroke:90 mm
Compression ratio:18:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:11.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:8.6 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:8.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:8.3 sec
Maximum speed:210 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:10 kg/Hp, 100.5 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.3 kg/Nm, 230.4 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.9 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2170
Max. weight:2685
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:515
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1550 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:465 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):2300 kg
Fuel tank capacity:93 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:750 kg
Permitted towbar download:120 kg
Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%):2700 kg
Size:
Length:4667 mm [1mm more]
Width:1872 mm [Same width.]
Height:1715 mm [2mm less]
Wheelbase:2820 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Width including mirrors:2180 mm
Front track:1576 mm
Rear (Back) track:1576 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):180 mm
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size235/65 R17
Wheel rims size7.5J x 17
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension

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