30D Turbo, V8, V6 ... which one?

[Tymatk]

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

Thank you

[Paulk1]

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.

[Tymatk]

Originally Posted by Paulk1

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!

[Tymatk]

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

[Paulk1]

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.

[jdd]

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.

[Paulk1]

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!

[Schtonky]

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

[Tymatk]

Thanks guys!!!

[atregent]

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.