A QX4 owner's review of a BMW X5

[AJRK]

Hi everyone, this weekend I went on a short road trip with a friend of mine to Bakersfield (550 miles round trip). We took his 2003 BMW X5 3.0i and I drove there and back. I have to say, as nice of an SUV as it is, I would have been just as happy driving my 2001 QX4.

The QX4 feels every bit as solid on the highway, has just as much pick up (maybe even more), is comparable in ride quality and corners even nicer! Not to mention the seats are more comfortable... the X5 doesn't have lumbar support!

The BMW does have a firmer steering feel and more bells and whistles (auto-dimming mirror, dual zone climate control, in-dash information system, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, more steering wheel controls, remote function for the liftgate, manumatic transmission with sport mode, rear a/c vents, hill descent control).

I for one was very proud that my QX4, a vehicle that was far less expensive than the X5 new, is not only comparable but preferable (to me at least). Has anyone else driven one? What did you think?

[MagicM]

I've been in both 1st generation and 2ng Gen X5's and they're both very nice cars. Very nice handling, nice exterior looks, and the interior is very simple but very tasteful. the straight 3.0 is very smooth and bring in power all the way to the redline. IMHO i think it's perfect for what it was designed to do, SUV space, comfort, but usable on the road, so basically all the soccer moms going to pickup their kids and grocery . But i wouldn't buy one, I love the More Giant Square locking differentials Low range 3 ton monster suvs, which i why i drive Land Rovers. The X5/X3 and crossover types have to much comprise, horrible offroad, and will never perform like a car on road, i rather have a sports car on road, and hardcore offroader for winter.

[KoukiS14]

I initially thought I'd hate it, but I drove a friend's 02 4.4i and thought it was pretty much tits. I used to think it was just another worthless crossover, and granted I'd never take the 5-series based SUV off the pavement, but it is an enjoyable drive.

I agree with all MagicM has said. And I too would prefer the QX4 over the X5 as the X5 isn't that much nicer.

[BryanWSD]

I too would take even my PF LE over the X5 3.0 because the 3.0 is too gutless. But, when you starting getting into their v8's (4.4 / 4.6's), the X5 is a great driving SUV. I personally haven't driven a better SUV.

But having owned 3 BMW sedans, you don't want a used one outside the manufacturer warranty. They are in the shop a lot, and every time you go, it's a $1,000+. And the X5's have some of the worst reliability of the BMW lineup.

The PF is very reliable, great power, great driving, and mine has most of the important nice to haves. And they're a great value.

[vliou]

Wow i'm surprised at your reviews.

My dad has a X5 4.4L with the sports package back home (2003). I would, if I could afford the maintenance, take that care over the QX4 any day.

The X5 has mind blowing acceleration, and the sound is just OMG, to die for. It handles sooo much better, taking it up twisty mountain roads was soo much fun. The sound system (albeit the optional package) is simply theatrical. The X5 is just such a magnificent car to drive, with its sports car handling....

Now don't get me wrong. I love my QX4...and have loved it for a very very long time. In my present financial status, I'd pick my QX4 over the X5 any day, but if I had that much disposable income...i'd jump to the X5.

The QX4 is a better car, the X5 is a better soulmate, in my opinion!

[Qxxx4]

ill take any bmw over any car, any day. i love bimmers lol even if their horrendously expensive to fix...so be it let it sit in the garage so i can stare at it! lol love my q but im jealous that ajrk got to drive an x5. id like to try the ones in europe with the diesels....

[MagicM]

ill take any bmw over any car, any day. i love bimmers lol even if their horrendously expensive to fix...so be it let it sit in the garage so i can stare at it! lol love my q but im jealous that ajrk got to drive an x5. id like to try the ones in europe with the diesels....

Haha, just go to a BMW dealership make some BS up how you're going to trade in your QX4 for a 4.8X5, and test drive the Piss out of it . Or come down to Calgary ill let you roll up in my Range Rover and ill roll up in the M35, pretend we both want to trade in and drive the Piss out of everything there. I've done it with my friend before