| New Engine Option | BMW X5 3.0sd |

The previous generation BMW X5, which turned the SUV segment on its head, was sufficiently different from existing 4×4s that it sprouted a sub-segment BMW proudly calls the SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle - SUV is so 2005). As it turned out, the diesel option took an astonishing 93% of sales. BMW fully expects this trend to continue with the new car.

Recognising this, BMW has decided to accompany the 3.0d (already a strong performer offering 232bhp and peak torque of 383lb.ft) with a new more powerful diesel model, named 3.0sd. The new version is powered by the remarkable updated 3-litre twin-turbo lump that impressed us so much in our recent review of the 535d M Sport Touring.

In actual fact, this diesel engine can lay claim to being the world's most powerful production six-cylinder diesel engine. The 3.0sd will boast 286bhp, and perhaps more importantly for the driver, 428lb.ft from 1,750rpm; accordingly, 62mph will flash up in 7.0 seconds from rest.

The mountainous levels of torque are transmitted to the road via a standard six-speed automatic gearbox and the xDrive four-wheel drive setup. Keeping all this hardware in check is BMW's DSC+ (Dynamic Stability Control) system; the 'plus' endows the revised idiot proof gadgetry with a couple of extra features including hill-start assistance, brake pre-tensioning, brake drying and slightly less invasive traction control settings.

BMW claims to have introduced the 3.0sd due to customer demand for a more performance orientated diesel X5; make no mistake about it, this engine will deliver superb performance, even if the X5 is heavier than both of the cars we've tested with this engine - the 335d and 535d.

All this talk of performance would usually get the green brigade sweating, but in this instance this extra power won't come at the expense of poor fuel consumption. BMW claims that the 3.0sd will achieve a Combined Cycle figure of 34mpg, and though this may not be achievable in all driving conditions, anything around the 30mpg mark would be magnificent for a car of this weight and performance. BMW's 'Efficient Dynamics' ethos really seems to be making an impact right across its range.

The BMW X5 3.0sd is on sale now and costs £42,630 for the SE and £47,675 for the M Sport version. For comparison, the regular 3.0d M Sport saves you just £2,400 at £45,265. Incidentally, the M Sport pack has now been made available across the X5 range.

Richard Tanner - 6 Jul 2007