On the Market for an E70 x5. Which engine?

[s2kvee]

I’m currently on the market for an e70 x5. Actually I’m on the market for a 3row 7 passenger AWD SUV with a few particular features which the X5 fulfills.


Budget is a huge factor. Not looking to throw out a huge chunk of money for a newer one even though I would want a f15.

Anyways. Which engine do you guys recommend.

I’ve narrowed it down to the
3.0
3.0 turbo (35i xdrive)
3.0 diesel (35d XDRIVE)

Due to fuel consumption and maintenance concerns, I’ve eliminated the 4.8 or the 5.0 models out.

Also, my budget currently hovers around the Pre-LCi models 2007-2009 models, is the 2010+ much more worth the additional cost? I mean HUD sure is nice. As for the idrive, I plan in switching over to the Android display if I get a CCC Unit with the pre LCi

[Cactus_BMW]

Originally Posted by s2kvee

I’m currently on the market for an e70 x5. Actually I’m on the market for a 3row 7 passenger AWD SUV with a few particular features which the X5 fulfills.


Budget is a huge factor. Not looking to throw out a huge chunk of money for a newer one even though I would want a f15.

Anyways. Which engine do you guys recommend.

I’ve narrowed it down to the
3.0
3.0 turbo (35i xdrive)
3.0 diesel (35d XDRIVE)

Due to fuel consumption and maintenance concerns, I’ve eliminated the 4.8 or the 5.0 models out.

Also, my budget currently hovers around the Pre-LCi models 2007-2009 models, is the 2010+ much more worth the additional cost? I mean HUD sure is nice. As for the idrive, I plan in switching over to the Android display if I get a CCC Unit with the pre LCi

I'm sure you're going to get a few replies, and a few of those will try to steer you outside of what you've narrowed down to focusing on (3.0). I commend you on doing your research and deciding what fits your needs best.

I personally ended up about a year ago finding a gem, low miles (64K) 2008 3.0si. I've been very happy with my X5, and knock on wood, haven't had any issues. Part of my decision was timing however.

While searching, I did drive a couple of 5.0s. and yes, they can move. But I was more concerned with fuel economy and engine reliability. My 3.0 steps right out, and when I know I need the pep, I slide the shifter over into sport mode to take advantage of the more aggressive shift pattern. I'm happy with the performance. Is it under powered for the size/weight of the X5? Maybe a tiny bit, but I'd venture to say you'll pull out ahead of a majority of cars in the other lane at a light.

Any of these X5s can fall down a rabbit hole of issues and repair costs - that is part of owning an aging BMW. My personal research made me feel the N52 straight 6 cylinder, non-turbo engine is a solid workhorse.

Having said this however, if the same X5 (low miles, excellent condition, cost) showed up when I was shopping - but with the 5.0, I probably would have bought it.

Since I've purchased mine, I've had the valve cover seal replaced (minor, small leak began), and I just put in a new battery. I also installed the 10.25" Android unit for the upgraded screen and CarPlay functionality.

Bottom line, I'd make the same decision again if I had it to do over again.

Cactus_BMW

[Huz-Z]

I've got a Z4 3.0si with the N52 engine. Its rock solid, as many of the guys over on the E85 Z4 forum will verify. Having said that, I also have an E70 X5 with the 3 litre turbo (35i) since 2017. It has also been solid, with plenty of guts.

[s2kvee]

I currently have a f30 335i with the 3.0 turbo. I know the upgrade / parts market are huge for the N55 motors. But it’s factors down to pricing. I see that the n55 actually gets better gas mileage than the 3.0 non turbo. And since it’s the LCI models, itll Probably have much more comfort features. I will be using the X5 to carry 5-7 adults so my concern is the 3.0si really underpowered? I don’t need like rocket ship fast lol..
I’m currently using a Mazda5 to carry 5-7 adults and that’s a 2.3L 4 cyl lol.. with like 160hp hahah. Not in it for the speed, that’s what the F30 is for.

[mitch808]

Personally my 2012 x35i is gutless. That's even with a tune. Frankly 5000lbs is a lot to move around on a 6cyl with only 300hp. Sure it can get up to speed quick, but it's nothing to be excited about. While there are N55 parts galore, fitting on to the e70 platform is not always the case.

Looking forward to ridding myself of it in 2019. Maintenance costs going forward now that I'm over 100k miles are a bit much for me, and I do most of my own maintenance!

[jiggz]

It sounds like your budget will dictate which model (engine) you end up with?

The 35i was not available until 2011, so that one is probably eliminated.
The 35d was not available until 2009, so maybe that is within budget?

The 3.0 N52 I6 is probably the most reliable motor but certainly the weakest in regards to HP & Torque. The E70 is a heavy vehicle, there's a lot of weight to move.

Not many changes in 2010, the big change was 2011/LCI. New engines, the updated 8 speed transmission (not in the diesel though), updated cosmetics (painted bumpers vs. black, among other things), new color & wheel offerings, etc.

[Spyro235]

I have a 35d, and I absolutely love it. The torque from the motor makes pulling it's weight around relatively effortless. It's not the fastest vehicle, but it certainly has enough gusto to get out of it's own way.

I'm goign to be doing deletes/ tune on my motor soon, which wiht make it even more reliable than it already is. The M57 diesel motor has no crazy common issues other than the emissions equipment crapping out, and when that happens, you spend $2000 for delete and tune and you have an absolutely bulletproof, reliable ride.
As far as being slow with all that weight in it- I've towed 2500 pounds behind my truck, and it performed fine still.

[Huz-Z]

Originally Posted by mitch808

Personally my 2012 x35i is gutless. That's even with a tune. Frankly 5000lbs is a lot to move around on a 6cyl with only 300hp. Sure it can get up to speed quick, but it's nothing to be excited about. While there are N55 parts galore, fitting on to the e70 platform is not always the case.

Looking forward to ridding myself of it in 2019. Maintenance costs going forward now that I'm over 100k miles are a bit much for me, and I do most of my own maintenance!

Wow - I have a 2012 X5 35i and I don't find that at all. I'm quite pleased with my car's guts, even accelerating up a grade.

[Smonkbmw]

Originally Posted by Huz-Z

Wow - I have a 2012 X5 35i and I don't find that at all. I'm quite pleased with my car's guts, even accelerating up a grade.

Same.
Granted I have the stage 1+ on mine it still does not disappoint. Many a car has been surprised when I merge into traffic.