Originally Posted by Steved

I drove the 35d engined X5 a few weeks ago and unfortunately I was not impressed. My ML63 was soooo much faster in every way, not just in terms of acceleration (which I'd admit isn't the most relevant measure) but in terms of engine pick-up when pulling out of a junction or joining a roundabout. I was really surprised that despite the 420lb/ft of torque of the 35d compared to my 460lb/ft ML, the ML felt about 'twice' as fast.

I drove a new 123d immediately afterwards and the 123d was also quicker than the 35d X5, so I really need to drive another one and hope it feels better.

I am also reminded of how impressed I was with the 35i engined 335i, which sounds like an old Nissan Skyline and pulls immediately and strongly from tickover. Clearly it won't feel as strong in a X6 with 500kg more weight to carry, but it was a much more characterful engine than the 35d engine.

It's difficult for me after being spoilt by the ML63. I do not need another SUV as fast as the ML63, but I would like one that is as effortless torque wise and sounds characterful. I would like to spend as little as I can (since I've also got an Audi R8 coming next year), and I was hoping to choose between the 35i, 35d or 50i X5. All of them can be tuned, although the 50i will take a little while to test and develop, whereas the tuners already have 360bhp and 340bhp versions of the 35i and 35d respectively.

So, I'm not sure which I would go for. I'd really like to see one specified in as 'sporty' spec as possible (20" wheels etc), and I'm going to speak to a few of my journo friends and see how soon I can test an X6 out (hopefully early next year).