[Patarix]

Excerpt from http://www.motoring.com.au/reviews/2...h-review-39003:

ON THE ROAD
>> Smooth operator on and offroad
If you’ve made it this far you’ve probably noticed that although there are a lot of additions, there are just as many points that remain the same... That’s the way X5 buyers want it and that’s why BMW built it so... Sounds logical, right?

Of course it does. The X5 continues to sell in strong numbers, even this late in its life cycle. And like they say, if it ain’t broke...

But of the fixes BMW has made to the X5, perhaps none are as evident, or improved as the ride quality. The second generation X5 was criticised by some for being too firm. Problem solved -- the new X5 is a far better blend of ride and handling, with a focus that sees the comfort side of the equation better tended to, with little loss to its much-admired handling.

It’s especially noticeable offroad. Vancouver’s beautifully sealed highways did little to challenge the X5’s suspension, so the path less travelled gave us a chance to explore just how well the large SUV would deal with potholes, ruts and rock. And deal with them it did...

It’s not as cushy as the Ford Territory, for example, but it is a marked improvement over its predecessor. As well as being well mannered on the rough stuff, it’s also a capable cornerer, and one that hides its obvious bulk rather well.

As you’d expect from a premium SUV, feel and feedback to the driver are spot on, or just about. The brake pedal feel is progressive and weighted to deliver a sedan-like level of modulation that sees the X5 stop with the finesse of a light hatch. Most of the secondary controls are similarly tactile.

The issue is, however, that the electric power steering doesn’t feel quite right. It doesn’t return to centre of its own accord and is ‘dead’ just off-centre before again feeling ‘normal’ as you progress through your turn.

Driving the xDrive30d (diesel) and xDrive50i (petrol) on launch it’s obvious that there’s disparity between the engine outputs. That’s to be expected, and obviously both will suit different buyers and are therefore incomparable in many ways.

It’s the 30d that impresses in its even-handed delivery. The oiler doesn’t have to work hard to achieve results, and works cooperatively with the eight-speed auto to rise and fall through the rev range with minimal fuss. The torque comes on strong and only really seems to fall short when summoned to overtake.

That’s not an issue the V8 50i seems to suffer. Whether it’s the break from the blocks, climbing a hill or pulling out to pass, the twin-turbo offers effortless power from any point on the tach -- matched by an addictive bassy growl.

The smooth roads of the hills surrounding Vancouver did little to show up road noise from the X5’s tyres, though on Aussie roads this could prove an issue. The only other NVH issue we really seemed to pick was a little wind hiss from the big mirrors, which we might add proved beneficial when changing lanes and parking.

As much as the new X5 isn’t a radical departure from its predecessor, the changes that have been made are rational, welcomed and entirely in-line with buyer expectations. Moving from a recipe that has seen the X5 become BMW’s gravy boat would be a foolish move, and we’re pleased to see that the Bavarians have played it safe.