BMW X5 M50d 2019 review: snapshot

The BMW X5 was the first model to labour under the monicker "Sports Activity Vehicle" or SAV, and it is now in its fourth generation. Bigger in every direction it's also loaded with a whole load of new features, new interior and, of course, new looks.

As before, the X5 is available in M Performance guise, again called the X5 M50d. The 3.0-litre diesel has four turbos strapped to it - that's two times two - for 294kW and 760Nm. For those playing along at home, that torque figure is the same as a Ferrari 488 GTB's. To help tame that grunt, you get an active rear differential, active steering and adaptive suspension.

For your $149,900 (plus on-road costs) you get 22-inch alloys, panoramic glass sunroof, dynamic dampers, head-up display, active cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, auto parking, auto laser headlights, auto high-beam, auto wipers, heated and auto dipping rear vision mirrors, configurable interior lighting, leather trim, electric split tailgate, four-zone climate control, heated electric front seats, keyless entry and start, M aero package, and a space-saver spare.

Explore the 2019 BMW X Models range

• BMW X5 2019 review
• BMW X5 2019 review: xDrive30d
• BMW X5 xDrive 40i 2019 review: snapshot
• BMW X5 M50d 2019 review: snapshot
• BMW X5 2021 review: xDrive30d

Entertainment comes via BMW's iDrive system, now up to version 7.0. With a huge 12.3-inch screen - the same as the digital dashboard's - DAB digital radio, 16 speakers and the usual Bluetooth and USB, the new system is slick and powerful. Apple CarPlay is standard (there is no Android Auto, however), but a third row of seats is optional.

On the safety front you've got the usual stability and traction controls, seven airbags, ABS, steering, reverse cross traffic alert, various lane keeping warnings and steering assists and lane keep assist, speed limit information and three top-tether and two ISOFIX points.