30D Turbo, V8, V6 ... which one?
 

Hi all

I've never own an SUV before, i'm new to the scene and looking to purchase an X5, around 02-04 model.

I've been looking at the V8, simply because they're really affordable these days, luxury and the towing capacity but i'm a bit worry about fuel consumption.

Now i'm starting to look at the 3lt diesel, what are they like? Are they straight 6 or V6? Much less power than the V8? What's their off road capacity like? I don't really go off road but now that i'm buying a SUV 4WD, i'm thinking of going fishing somewhere far and remote but not really hardcore off road.
Please shed some light for a newbie :D

Thank you

35d
 

Welcome! I recently got a 2011 35d. It's a twin turbo 6 cylinder and in my opinion it's a rocket ship. It really shines with the torque. I think it's only 25fp difference from the v8. I think 425 the six and 450 the eight. Not sure about the earlier models but probably very similar. Great on fuel and the diesels are supposed to run a very long time. I only have my recent experience to share but could not be happier. I feel like my world revolves around the SAV now.

Awesome!

Anyone has one forsale in Vic? What do i need to look out for?

Warranty
 

I would try and get one still below 50k miles. That way you can bring it to BMW for a check-up and have them fix anything major before the warranty runs out. You might be able to find one with 100k warranty. I am a complete novice compared to some people on this forum. I'm sure they can shed much more light on what to look for in your search.

Not sure what your budget is but if you’re looking for a 02-04 model you’re probably looking at around 25-45K AUD depending on options and condition.

If your budget will stretch, I would recommend you look at a ’04 or later which has the ZF 6 speed auto fitted as the older GM 5 speed is a bit more problematic.
The later ones are easily spotted as they have clear indicator lenses as opposed to orange ones in the earlier (pre-facelift model).
The ’04 onward 3.0d also had a power and torque upgrade from the earlier version.

Just a word of caution if you are looking at a ’04 model check its build date as there may be some around registered as ’04 but are actually earlier models that have had cosmetics upgraded.

I have a ’04 3.0d and for what I use it for, it’s perfect.
It gets great fuel economy if you drive carefully, and goes reasonable well when pushed.
It’s by no means what I would consider a rocket-ship but it’s reasonably quick for a 2.2 ton vehicle.
The later diesels (E70) are a little more powerful, but they are also considerably more expensive.

35d
 

Maybe not a rocket but, 0-60 in 6.8 is pretty good. It looks like there have been some changes in the models over the years. Either way you will love it!

Go the 05 diesel, award winning straight 6, plenty of power. Safety, economy. Get a Pre purchase check. Good luck.

Thanks guys!!!

I've got a 2005 3.0d, love it. Country driving, I can get around 7.5l/100km (did go up to about 8.4 with a trailer full of camping gear in tow). Around town it averages around 10-11, so still pretty good.

We go camping a few times a year and do get off bitumen a fair bit. Nothing extreme, of course, but it seems to handle itself quite well.

I got mine about 18 months ago with just about all the options (including tow bar) for $50k.