2019-04-01 BMW Car

(Jacob Rumans) #1

16 BMWcar


FIRST DRIVE


FOUR-WHEEL STEERING
For the full tech suite, buyers can add
Adaptive M suspension Professional,
which features a sophisticated,
active anti-roll system using electric
motors and Integral Active Steering.
Even if you care not a jot how the
M50d handles corners, this could
potentially be worth the (admittedly
considerable) £3,195 extra outlay, as
Integral Active Steering is BMW-speak
for four-wheel steering. This enhances
stability during high-speed turns and
lane changes, makes the X5 feel far
more agile than it should in tighter

bends and, something that’s of use to
all owners, considerably reduces the
turning circle, making the X5 much
easier to park and manoeuvre when
space is restricted.
Which brings me neatly to the point
where I must consider where most
examples of the X5 M50d are likely to
spend most of their days. Sure, some
of them will be used as tow vehicles.
Though the maximum trailer weight of
2,700kg is no different to that of the X
xDrive30d, the M50d’s extra torque will
undeniably make lighter work of hauling
heavy loads (think speedboats and

horseboxes rather than rusty trailers on
the way to the tip), but don’t hold your
breath while you wait to see an M50d
fitted with a tow bar.
No, the vast majority will be bought
because the owner wants the highest-
ranking X5 in the BMW canon; the one
with the biggest badge, even if it’s to
be used mostly for ambling around a
salubrious neighbourhood, or for keeping
up appearances at the school gates twice
a day. After all, the M50d can be had
with seven seats, and that’s as important
a number as any other associated with
this incredible creation. l

The M50d’s luxurious interior benefits from the full, BMW
Digital Live Cockpit Professional, which includes a pair of
12.3in screens and the full suite of interface options.
A decently-sized and well-trimmed boot means the G
X5 can be a very practical load-lugger.

The M50d is equipped with
adaptive LED headlights as
standard, but many owners are
likely to pay the extra £895 and
upgrade to BMW’s Laserlights.
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