So last week my new X5 came in and I wanted to do a short comparo between the two for those who are interested.
Both vehicles have the exact same options. M Sport, Exec package, LED, auto cruise control, rear seat entertainment, DHP etc. Both MSRP was in the $83k range. The 2018 has the updated iDrive, digital instrument cluster and 21" wheels and the gas engine. Those are the only differences.
I originally got the diesel because I planned on towing but that didnt quite pan out. I got my first X5d in 2013, traded that for a lease on a 2015 X5d and here we are today. My wife and I liked the X5 so much that we purchased this one and plan on keeping it for 5-7 years instead of 3 with a lease.
The driving experience is very similar. The biggest difference is the total torque and delivery of said torque. With the diesel, if you floor it, you get a pause while the turbo spools up then once it hits about 1500 RPM you get quite the push in the back. It's the turbo lag that is the biggest difference.
With the gas engine it's a much "smoother" build of torque although there is not as much of it. The gas version is faster though and that is noticeable.
I added the MPPK to the 18 as well because I was afraid I would miss the torque. What I can tell you is that I am very happy I added the MPPK and I dont think I will miss the torque at all. The 18 is just smoother. I guess that's the easiest way to put it.
I have not had the gas version long enough to compare fuel mileage, I will save that for a latter date. Although I do know the range is not as good with the gas as it was with the diesel. Since the X5 is a 3rd vehicle for us now I was not as influenced by fuel mileage as I was before. I am sure I will miss the range though, I swear I only filled up that thing twice a month....
Both versions are awesome and I dont think you can go wrong with either but I am very happy with the decision to go back to a regular gas engine. Sticking with the X5 was a no brainer!!! We looked at all the options out there and just love the BMW the most....
Here are a few pictures of the new beast. Love this SUV!!!
