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BMW X5 E53 LCI, facelift 2003 4.8is (360 Hp) Steptronic
Overall Rating
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 490 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2200 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 6.1 s). The top speed reaches 246 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
4.8is (360 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The N62B48 V8 offers exhilarating performance and a fantastic soundtrack, transforming the X5 into a true sports SUV.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is a significant drawback, with high consumption figures expected, especially under spirited 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 LCI, facelift 2003: 2003 - 2006).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | X5 |
| Generation: | E53 LCI, facelift 2003 |
| Modification (Engine): | 4.8is (360 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production: | 2004 |
| End of production: | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | SUV |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 360 Hp @ 6200 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 75 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 490 Nm @ 3600 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | N62B48 More details about the engine N62B48 |
| Engine displacement: | 4799 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 8 l |
| Coolant: | 13 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 93 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 88.3 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 11:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 18.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 10.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 13.5 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 246 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.1 kg/Hp, 163.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.7 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 5.8 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2200 |
| Max. weight: | 2700 |
| Max load: | 500 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1550 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 465 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 93 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4667 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1872 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1707 mm mm [8mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2820 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Width including mirrors: | 2180 mm |
| Front track: | 1576 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1576 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 275/40 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
If you could change one thing about the BMW X5, what would it be?