BMW X5 E53 4.6is (347 Hp) Steptronic


Overall Rating

8 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 Overview:

BMW X5 (E53). With 480 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2105 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 6.5 s). The top speed reaches 240 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2003
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars 4
Expert Note:
The BMW X5 (E53) achieved a respectable 4-star rating for adult occupant protection in its 2003 Euro NCAP test, indicating a solid level of safety for its time.

4.6is (347 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Exceptional V8 power delivering thrilling acceleration and a sporty driving experience, making it the performance flagship of the E53 range.

Fuel Economy

Very high fuel consumption, typical for a large, powerful V8 SUV of its era, leading to significant running costs.

Best Use Case: Performance Driving / Highway Cruising

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Strong engine lineup, especially the powerful V8s and efficient diesels
  • • Excellent driving dynamics for an SUV, offering a sporty and engaging experience
  • • Premium interior quality and features for its era, providing a luxurious feel
  • • Capable xDrive all-wheel-drive system for confident handling in various conditions
  • • Robust build quality and timeless design

Cons:

  • • High fuel consumption on petrol models, particularly the V8s
  • • Potential for costly maintenance and repairs, especially for cooling system, suspension, and electrical components
  • • Aging infotainment system and technology compared to modern standards
  • • Relatively firm ride, especially on larger wheels, which might compromise comfort for some
  • • Limited rear passenger space compared to some rivals

Specifications:

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:X5
Generation:E53
Modification (Engine):4.6is (347 Hp) Steptronic
Start of production:2000
End of production:2003
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:347 Hp @ 5700 rpm.
Power per litre:75.1 Hp/l
Torque:480 Nm @ 3700 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M62B46
Engine displacement:4619
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:85 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:21 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:11.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:14.9 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:6.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:6.5 sec
Maximum speed:240 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.1 kg/Hp, 164.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.4 kg/Nm, 228 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.2 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2105
Max. weight:2685
Max load:580
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1550 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:465 l
Fuel tank capacity:93 l
Size:
Length:4666 mm mm
Width:1872 mm mm
Height:1717 mm mm
Wheelbase:2820 mm mm
Front track:1576 mm
Rear (Back) track:1576 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):12.1 m
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears5
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs, 332 mm
Rear brakesDisc, 324 mm
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size275/40 R20; 315/35 R20
Wheel rims size20
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension

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