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BMW X5 E53 LCI, facelift 2003 3.0i (231 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 300 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2020 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 8.8 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.
3.0i (231 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The automatic transmission smooths out power delivery but slightly dulls the acceleration compared to the manual.
Fuel Economy
The least fuel-efficient of the 3.0i options, with consumption figures that can be quite high in urban environments.
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): | 3.0i (231 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production: | 2003 |
| End of production: | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | SUV |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 231 Hp @ 5900 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 77.5 Hp/l [1mm more] |
| Torque: | 300 Nm @ 3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M54B30 More details about the engine M54B30 |
| Engine displacement: | 2979 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.5 l |
| Coolant: | 10.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 89.6 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 18.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.9 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 8.8 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 210 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.7 kg/Nm, 148.5 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 8.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2020 |
| Max. weight: | 2620 |
| Max. roof load: | 100 kg |
| Max load: | 600 |
| 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): | 203 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 |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
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