Performance and 0-60 time
Sitting behind those huge grille slats are a selection of three turbocharged in-line ‘six’ engine options. The sole petrol model generates 335bhp and will reach 62mph in just 5.5sec, topping out at 151mph. Petrol models have yet to reach the UK, but when we’ve sampled the same engine inside a BMW 540i, the smooth, linear response will make it a fine, if thirsty option.
The bulk of UK sales will undoubtedly still be made up from the 30d, which produces 261bhp and a more stout 458lb ft of torque. It’ll reach 62mph in a still impressive 6.2sec, though, while using less fuel in the process.
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The M50d is more serious, producing 394bhp, with an impressive 560lb ft of torque making light work of the X5’s serious bulk. It’ll reach 62mph in 5.2sec, with a limited top speed of 155mph. But whereas you might make the assumption that as it matches an E39 for brake horsepower, it’ll be as fast, you probably shouldn’t, as its surging acceleration is impressive rather than eye-widening
