Currently, I am using Google Maps on my smartphone but it would have been great to have a useable built-in navigation in the SUV.

BHPian vivekiyer20 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I recently purchased a pre-owned BMW X5 (F15, 3rd gen). The built-in navigation in it is really outdated and hardly useful. It obviously doesn't have CarPlay. While currently I am making do using Google Maps on my mobile, it would have been great to have a usable in-built navigation. The current navigation system is a 2013 version and doesn't recognize any of the locations inputted.

On speaking to the BMW service advisor, he said it could be updated for a price of 9K INR. I'm wondering whether it is worth it. Does anybody have any ideas/tips regarding this?

PS: I am in Mumbai, if it helps.

Here's what GTO had to say about the matter:

Not at all and IMHO, that applies to all "inbuilt" navigation systems by car manufacturers. Google Maps is the best and offers up-to-date information, routes & traffic data. My smartphone fits perfectly in the cupholder with the screen facing me. If that's not the case with you, either rely on audio instructions or get a smartphone holder.

Here's what BHPian ssjr0498 had to say about the matter:

It's not worth it! If you plan on keeping the car, the local accessories dealer could help you with a retrofit MMI box basis your current I-drive model.

Here's what BHPian kdp had to say about the matter:

The BMW maps are not terrible, especially if they are up to date. There are times that I prefer BMW maps to Google maps. For Example, in Bangalore, as a non-local, I have been guided down increasingly narrow "Main" roads; while relying on Gmaps. BMW maps, for the same run on a subsequent day, on the other hand, kept me on the real main roads. (longer, but ultimately about the same travel time. And yes, Gmaps is set to minimise travel time). You do lose traffic information, but an integrated map has a nice interface and it's useful to see directions on the HUD.

It does not need to cost an arm and a leg to keep BMW maps up to date. it can even be free. I am assuming that you have a CIC Head unit if it's a 2013 map. I had NBT on my F25. DM me if you need guidance on how to go about it.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The only thing chargeable was the wheel alignment which costed 4000 plus GST. Honestly, that felt like a total rip-off.

BHPian Jay_P2324 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

One Year Update

December 8th marks one year since I took delivery of this beautiful driving machine. Until now the car has covered 10,500 kms, one accident, and a spectacular 2500 km road trip.

The Unfortunate Incident

In June, I had been on a weekend getaway to Mahabaleshwar. On my way back, around Khed Shivapur toll plaza it was pouring down quite heavily. While descending the bridge before the toll plaza I saw some water logged and reduced my speed. A Mahindra Pickup carrying a heavy load could not brake on time and rear-ended me.

The car was sent to Navnit Motors Thane a couple of days later. I made an insurance claim and got the car repaired. The repair took one week as promised by the SA and the fit and finish and the quality of repainting done was spot on. Overall I was quite impressed by the Service Center.

Parts repaired / replaced:

• Rear Bumper and lower cosmetic attachments
• Rear taillight
• Rear left reflector fitment
• Lower split tailgate denting and painting
• Loading sill

Next came the PPF replacement. Spoke to Mr. Amol Chitre; he said that the PPF on a repainted panel should be replaced after one month. I was fine with it since I was traveling to The Netherlands for 20 days and the car would be in my garage. I did not have to worry about driving the car without PPF and having the rear bumper scratched in Mumbai traffic.

The replacement PPF cost was about 26k.

First Service

As per the iDrive, the service message popped up in October. At the time, the car had covered about 6500 kms. Service was covered by BSI+ and the following things were carried out at Navnit Motors Thane Workshop:

• Oil was changed
• Oil filter replaced
• Air Filter cleaned
• AC filter cleaned
• Wheel alignment was done

The only thing chargeable was the wheel alignment which costed 4000 plus GST. Honestly, that felt like a total rip-off.

Road trip to Coorg

During Diwali, we decided to take a trip to Coorg. We left Mumbai at 5:00 AM on 11th November and hit some traffic at the Lonavala Ghat on the Mumbai Pune Expressway.

Little did we know that wasn’t the only patch of traffic we were gonna hit. After crossing Pune, the NH48 is undergoing widening hence traffic was limited to one and a half lanes of traffic, and 2-wheelers took most of the outer lane. A major cause of traffic was broken-down cars, seemed like everyone was out for an annual holiday without running a basic check on their vehicles. There was steady traffic up to the Maharashtra Border. After a late lunch around 3:30 PM in Peth, we crossed into Karnataka around 5:00 PM. The original plan was to reach Apoorva Resorts Davangere, but the ETA was 9:30 PM. We decided to call it a day around 7:00 PM at Hubbali and stayed at the Fortune Park near the Hubbali Airport.

Clear roads after entering Karnataka

Day 1 driving summary

The following day, after a good night’s rest we hit the breakfast table and were on the road by 9:30 AM. Once we were on the Highway, we were greeted by splendid 6-lane highways. I must appreciate the Karnataka part of the NH48; 6 broad lanes and very well-marked highways. The 3.0 6-cylinder diesel finally got to stretch her legs and boy did she enjoy it. We were covering kilometers effortlessly. Google Maps showed a right turn after Davangare but I was unsure of it as it was a single-lane highway. I read on the forum that the road via Tumakuru is better. We decided to proceed ahead on the NH48. It was time to refuel the car around Sira. I started looking for COCO pumps and came across Shell but it was on the other side of the highway. Finally decided to fuel up at BPCL COCO Sira. The diesel price was 88.80/- compared to 92.62/- in Mumbai at that time. The car covered 850 kms on one tank.

Spotted a M340i at the Hotel. Loved the 0340 plates

Beautiful Highways

BPCL COCO Sira

As we were nearing Tumakuru, I took a close look at the route. It was taking us through Tumakuru and joining us on the Bangalore Mysore Expressway. I decided it would be nice to drive the whole stretch from Bangalore to Mysore on the Expressway and the difference in ETA was not much. Just ahead of Tumakuru we had lunch at De Mandrin Restro Cafe, it is within the campus of Sri Siddhartha Institute of Medical Sciences. It is a nice restaurant with clean washrooms, would recommend it to anyone traveling on the route with a family.

After a nice lunch we headed on towards the outskirts of Bangalore and took the diversion onto the NICE road. Traffic was a bit slow since the road was under construction. Once we joined the Expressway, it truly is an engineering marvel. Distance from Bangalore to Mysore was covered in no time. We reached Mysore in time for some coffee, found a nice place on the Mysore ring road and headed towards Virajpet. We reached our Resort at around 7:00 PM, which included a couple of stops to pick up some stuff in Virajpet.

Bangalore Mysore Expressway

The next couple of days we simply enjoyed the resort property, just headed out to Madikeri one afternoon for some lunch and shopping

Continue reading BHPian Jay_P2324's update for more insights and information.

The car has the instrument cluster and the infotainment from the 2021 model, making the interior feel like you're driving the latest model.

BHPian ShoMan recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Dear all,

This is my first ever post on TeamBHP and boy am I thrilled! I am planning to buy a 2015 X5 30d M, with 56k on the ODO. The car has had two owners who treated her nicely. The car was recently serviced, with new brake pads fitted. The car has the instrument cluster and the infotainment from the 2021 model, making the interior feel like you're driving the latest model and 20 inch rims give it a Godly look.
I drove the and it was POWERFUL, there was no sign of oil leakage, no worrying sounds from the engine and the suspension was great I took it over the rough patches and even over a speed bump at 80 kph and it just did was it was meant to do.

I really like the car, but I'm scared about a lot of "What if's", requesting all the owners to help me out on this one! The dealer is asking 27L for it and I feel thats a little high personally. I'd be happy for 24L

Here's what BHPian Dante had to say on the matter:

At 56k mileage the odo meter is not very high and it can be a good buy. Also 30d engine is quite reliable if taken care of.

Do take it authorized BMW service center and get it checked thoroughly. Can't comment on the pricing for used since I have never dealt in a used car.

But the million dollar question is why 2 owners with just 56k odo? I can understand the first owner upgrading, but why is the second owner selling it? Engine issue? Suspension? Because these problems could cause you a lot time and money.

Here's what BHPian arnav612 had to say on the matter:

I would advise against. Been there, done that moment. While these cars age really well, after a point in their lifetime you need to keep consumables in mind and believe me, they aren't cheap and the process itself is pretty exhausting. Things like engine mounts, steering rack, suspension if not detected early on can become a very exhausting process to acquire and build. The pricing is fair honestly if you crack it at 24. If you're buying a "new" car, you wouldn't like to see things going downhill within the first few months itself. If you're ready for the spend, and your running can do justice to it, then the 30d engine is an absolute joy to munch miles in and the X5 is obviously an all-rounder.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The tall SUV gives me low flying airplanes vibes with the high driving position, excellent visibility.

BHPian utkarshmohan86 recently shared this with other enthusiasts

There is a necessary prelude to this post. Which is, why would I swap my sharp, agile, (in my humble opinion, the thinking man's E39 M5) F30 Alpina B3, for a large blunt diesel 'locomotive'?

I will dedicate a separate post to that topic as well as a wrap up of my Alpina's ownership. But to give you a preview, it was the ground clearance as well as some exotic car quirks, which make you laugh through the lens of heady automotive journalism but make you weep when you have to deal with them.

Without further ado, this is introducing a car that has been on my radar ever since I read Autocar's review of this crazy tri-turbo diesel engine thirteen years ago, albeit in a 5 series (the F10 M550D). I have never owned a diesel car and something about the prospect of 740NM and a monstrous SUV has had my curiosity for over 10 years.

I have always had a soft spot for the X5, as had my wife and when I came across a one owner example at a reasonable depreciation (remember we live in Singapore, the land that makes petrolheads weep and then empty their bank accounts anyway), it was a punt I had to take.

We got our white on beige 2015 Example with about 98,500km on the clock and have done about 500km over the first five days. Here are a few photos (some mine, some the dealers) followed by my initial thoughts.

The Positives:

• 'TORQUE'- The capitalization is necessary and then some. If the Alpina felt like a rocket, this makes you feel like Dr Strangelove strapped on it. For city driving as well as slipping in and out of expressways, this is best way to access performance and the large size makes it giggle worthy.
• Fun to Drive' factor. I wasn't sure I would like an SUV given my proclivity for that low slung driving position (which, if you wonder, only BMW's truly seem to achieve). The X5 M50D feels nothing like a sportscar (don't let the marketing or M badges fool you) but is none the worse for it. If a sporty saloon or coupe gives you race car vibes, flat as a pancake even across corners, the tall SUV gives me low flying airplanes vibes with the high driving position, excellent visibility, even a touch of controllable roll. You ride on the monster, taming it with your arms and right foot, not in it.
• 'Brakes' These deserve a worthy mention as one would not enjoy a fast car without this confidence. The best brakes I have experienced on any car SUV or not.
• 'Security' Singapore has a fair amount of rain and sporadic water logging (which only lasts for minutes thanks to excellent drainage but can catch you up) and my Alpina was a different animal depending on the number of clouds in the sky. This car doesn't care about clouds, moons or planets. It just goes. There was an Ad in Singapore calling it 'Quattro country'. I think it should be X5 country.

The Negatives:

• This is not the fault of the car as such. In general I find BMW interiors don't wear as well as other competitors like Mercedes or Volvo. Though it is a one owner car, the light beige interior has a touch of wear and will need some TLC. The biggest visual issues are some scratching on the aluminum trim from the previous owner's dogs, some wear on the drivers seat right side and door mats that need replacing. I will sort these over the next few weeks.
• Diesel clatter and refinement. Remember I have never owned or driven a diesel car for an extensive period of time before and almost only owned nice straight smooth 6 cylinders. So the clatter at idle especially is something I am having to get used to. It gets better at speeds but at traffic lights, I actually let the start-stop cut in, rather than feeling the engine
• The carelessness of the last owner for the past few months. It was 3000km overdue for a service ( I got it done immediately). There is one part that needed ordering though, the sensor to help determine the air-fuel mix. The car is running a little rich currently, but this should be sorted in a few days.
• If you can't tell, I love the car so far. New car prices in Singapore have gone to the stratosphere due to combination of factors that deserve its own post, so I have been looking out for a used car that can be a keeper and the X5 M50D is a candidate. Early days but we'll see.

For those of you who prefer the medium of moving picture to complement the letters on your screen, here's a video as well. I'm no Clarkson (or Watson) but at least you'll get to see more of the car:

I'll make a more detailed post (and video) once I have done a month or two with the car. Also this is more the wife's car, so I'll get her insights as well.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The GLE has the best interiors among the 3 cars.

BHPian smile_plzzz recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I am in the process of upgrading from my Fortuner to a luxury SUV. After test drives and reading reviews of many others like Volvo XC90 etc, I have short listed these 3 options.

• Audi Q7: I love the way it drives - pickup, handling, overall interiors. Though after looking at new X5/GLE, dashboard feels a bit dated. The pros are value for money while cons are brand name.
• BMW X5: Love the new version. Best pickup/road handling amongst 3. Cons is 25-30 lakhs more expensive than Q7 and 2nd row seat is too upright. I feel that on very long drives, this might be issue for rear seat passengers.
• GLE: Best interiors amongst the 3. Good leg space/recline angle/thigh support in back seat as well. But drive quality was not upto the mark. I didn't find it too responsive. Engine felt underpowered. Also, bumps on road got passed more to passengers compared to X5 and Q7.

I will love to hear user review from people on above 3 options and their story while going through similar journey of choosing SUV in this range.

I don't see many people posting about Q7 in this forum. How is long term ownership of Q7 in terms of fuel efficiency, maintenance frequency (apart from regular service)/associated costs?

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

What matters is which car appeals to you the most and clearly, you prefer the Q7 & X5. Take another long test-drive and pick whichever of the two tugs the strings to your heart more.

Once luxury car dealerships know you are serious, you'll easily get a longer TD, and also a full day or weekend with the car at your house.

In terms of price, no one can beat Audi, especially when they start talking of discounts.

The Q7 is a wonderful machine, one of Audi's top cars. The powerful 3.0 turbo-petrol, air suspension, equipment etc. will keep you happy. But if I liked the X5 more, personally, I would spend the extra cash and then enjoy the car more...keep the car for longer. You must read my article on this subject (How a more expensive car can work out cheaper (if you hold onto it for longer)).

Here's what BHPian aseem23 had to say on the matter:

Q7 is a very good car, but the facelift is due soon. Currently, you might get some good discounts on the Q7 too. It will save you a lot of money over X5, and GLE.

With GLE, go for the GLE 400d variant, but it will be expensive and you should try for some discounts. You won't find the 400d variant underpowered at all.

With X5, it has all the latest tech, and it looks awesome in real, but it is expensive, around 1.25CR On-road I guess.

In conclusion, you should first decide on the budget. For anything strictly under 90l-1Cr, go for Q7. If the budget is higher, then if you prefer a chauffeur go for GLE 400d, otherwise go for BMW X5 if you prefer to drive yourself.

Also, remember Q7 is available only in petrol option whereas GLE and X5 are available in both petrol and diesel.

Here's what BHPian vattyboy had to say on the matter:

Go for X5 40i. In my eyes, it looks the best of the lot with the best handling and performance.

Go for the X-Line variant OTR- 1.10 cr if you are price-conscious.

Here's what BHPian inwester had to say on the matter:

My pick in this segment would be GLE, if you can live with the underpowered 4 banger. Otherwise pay up a bit more and go for the 450. It's the newest, nicest and gives you the brand bragging rights.

Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 are too old now and probably in their last year as the current model. Almost 7 years at least since launch and ready for a model change.

X5 would be the drivers pick. At least you won't feel shortchanged and get a 6-cylinder as standard.

Take a look at the Land Rover Defender as well, but in the 6-cylinder variant, it will be even more expensive.

Your wife isn't entirely inaccurate in her assessment, Audi generally has less brand cache and a bit cheaper (even in the developed markets), among the big 3 German luxury auto manufacturers (the other two being Mercedes and BMW).

However, at ~90 lakhs, Audi Q7 will be around 20 lakhs cheaper than the cheapest X5 and 30 lakhs cheaper than the 6-cylinder GLE. This does make things a bit tricky. In the end, think twice, buy what makes you feel the best, at this price range, you want to feel good for years to come and shouldn't have buyers remorse. If you are looking for a car in this segment, you are doing alright.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The X3 M40i seems best, size wise and upgrade to that great inline 6 with practicality of SUV style

BHPian XDriver recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I have just sold my BMW X1 X drive 20d M Sport. Am hunting for another BMW as I love the brand and trust its quality and maintenance. I am debating between the M340i, X3 M40i or stretch myself to get the X5 40i. I want a fast petrol to complement my garage.

The X3 M40i seems best, size wise and upgrade to that great inline 6 with practicality of SUV style. But it’s pricey and X5 40i is 10 lac more. X3 M40i does not have the mild hybrid system which the other 2 have and hence milage is lower.

X5 40i Xline is 10 lac odd more but bigger, more space and has a larger boot. I drove it and liked it but is a tad big for a daily self driven car.

M340i seems value for money and I so want that B58 engine which is there in other 2 options too. It’s almost 20 lac cheaper than X3 M40i. Will I miss an SUV if I get this? I have a 530d already. And a Nexon EV max.

What would you choose? And what would your recommendation be?

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

The new X5 looks deadly & feels deadly. Go for it. 10 - 12 lakhs is nothing in the larger scheme of things, when you are in the 1-crore segment already. It is vastly superior in terms of space, premium part quality, cabin feel etc. Get a car from the higher segment, it will keep you happier.

Here's what BHPian androdev had to say on the matter:

Tough call man. X5 and M340i interiors are one generation ahead of X3 (large curved display). I don’t think one is better over the other but always pinches to pay top dollar for something that’s not the latest.

Mild hybrid tech is a needless liability for that marginal fuel economy gain - I don’t think it will be a big miss if you don’t have it.

The rest depends on your preference for the shape (sedan vs suv) and size (x3 vs x5)

I would probably say go for X5 - has more premium vibe and should be more comfortable. X3 M40i is too much money I feel given the prices of M340i and X5. Since you have 530D, not sure m340i would be a good option. X5 is a sensible option. X3 is not exactly a compact crossover like the X1 you are replacing. If you can lug around an X3, you can manage an X5 as well. The size won’t overwhelm you beyond the first month or so.

X5 will be less agile obviously compared to smaller X3 but you might appreciate the overall package of X5. In general, a higher segment car proves itself to be a better a buy in the long run as you spend more time with it.

Here's what BHPian Axe77 had to say on the matter:

The sedan vs SUV is a personal choice. IMO - money no bar - X5 40i for sure.

Following that, I’d pick the X3 SUV body style over the M340i for its GC practicality and comfort of adaptive suspension - combines that explosive power with usability and peace of mind.

Please do check on discounts for the X3, if any before deciding. Perhaps if the X3 is sporting discounts, you might feel differently about the price to value proposition. I think I had heard there may be some deals going but I’m really not sure.

Here's what BHPian Turbanator had to say on the matter:

What are your exact needs, Just fast is not enough differentiator when you already have a 530-D as the others like the M340 will barely different in the real world. Yes, on paper the difference is too much and also in an ideal world but in a city or highways, I don't think you will feel very different. But, this is something I will decide after some extended drives, if possible back to back on your 530-D.

If you can extend your budget for an X5, it will be a meaningful upgrade. Though not as quick as the M340 or X3 M40, but it's fast and you can have multiple other practical benefits of an X5. I saw the X3-M40 a day before and was not impressed. Between an M340 and an x3 M40, I will pick an M340.

Here's what BHPian Akshay1234 had to say on the matter:

Since you have a 530d already, rule out another sedan which is the M340i. You will miss having a somewhat SUV like feel you got from the X1.

The X3M40i is 87l ex showroom, while the X5 40i M sport is 1.06 ex showroom. That's about 19l difference. Add to that you may get some discount on the X3 as it doesn't seem to be exactly moving off the shelves, and it would be my pick. That is if you are looking for a more sporty drive with better handling.

If budget isn't a concern, then the X5 makes a better case in terms of comfort and being an all rounder overall. But if its more for the drive experience, Id say save the money.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

I'm considering this SUV and the BMW X3 M40i to replace my X1 xDrive20d M Sport.

BHPian XDriver recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hello all,

I got a chance to test drive the new BMW X5 XDRIVE 30d M Sport SAV today. I have owned the X1 X drive 20d M sport and have the 530d M sport saloon.

Immediately upon seeing the X5 it feels imposing and big. It’s quiet roomy and cavernous on the inside too. The new 21-inch alloy design is lovely with blue M sport callipers. The split tailgate and boot remain the same as before with 650 litres of space.

Once seated inside, it has a commanding view outside. The M Sport has HUD and heated and cooled seats. It does get noisy when the cooling function is on and at max setting as if someone had a hair dryer behind me.

The curved display and I drive 8 is nice but I still prefer the previous split design of my 530d. The I drive 7 is more intuitive and I did find the latest version a bit overwhelming to use. Too many menus and sub menus.

Drive impressions

Immediately the X5 X drive 30d felt more responsive than my 530d, maybe due to 20 more HP and 30 more Nm of torque. It also could be due to the mild hybrid system with 20hp and 200 Nm of torque.

All this makes it a hoot to drive with minimal to no lag and very quick off the mark. Surprisingly you don’t feel the bulk of the car and it’s quite agile and nimble to drive. The steering felt a bit better than 530d and was sharp with good feedback. It feels like a much smaller car than it is.

Ride is great due to the air suspension. But my 530d with its adaptive dampers is more than adequate and equally impressive.

Once placed in sport mode, the handling is superb. Feels composed and agile in corners. It’s a bit floaty in comfort in comparison. Body roll is minimal.

Size and practicality

It is a big SAV. But easy to manoeuvre. The 360-degree camera and parking and reverse assistant do help. I would prefer the X3 as a daily driver though. The X5 will be a tremendous highway tourer and for social events.

Overall I love it. I am considering this and the X3 M40i to replace my X1.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The BMW X5 is available in xLine and M Sport trims powered by 6-cylinder petrol and diesel engines.

BMW has launched the updated X5 in India. The X5 LCI is available in xLine and M Sport trims priced from Rs 93.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

The BMW X5 receives several cosmetic updates as part of the LCI refresh. The SUV gets a restyled exterior featuring an illuminated kidney grille, matrix Adaptive LED headlights with blue accents as well as redesigned rear bumpers and taillights. The SUV rides on 21-inch alloy wheels, which come as standard.

The M Sport package adds an M-specific front apron, black roof rails, M high-gloss Shadowline trim, rear apron with Dark Shadow inlays and trapezoidal exhaust tips.

Inside, the updated X5 gets a curved display housing a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment running BMW’s latest iDrive 8.0 software. The SUV also gets features like a heads-up display with augmented reality, a panoramic sunroof, and more.

The BMW X5 is available with petrol and diesel engine options. The xDrive40i is powered by a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder petrol engine that makes 375 BHP @ 5,200-6,250 rpm and 520 Nm @ 1,850-5,000 rpm. The xDrive30d variant uses a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder diesel that puts out 282 BHP @ 4,000 rpm and 650 Nm @ 1,500-2,500 rpm. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system. The SUV rides on Adaptive air suspension with a self-levelling function.

The new X5 is loaded with a lot of safety tech as well, including Driver Assistance Systems. Features such as Cruise Control, Attentiveness Assistant, Parking Assistant Professional with Surround View Camera, Drive Recorder, remote parking via smartphone and Reversing Assistant are part of the standard package.

BMW X5 facelift ex-showroom prices:

Petrol

• xLine - Rs 93,90,000
• M Sport - Rs 1,04,90,000

Diesel

• xLine - Rs 95,90,000
• M Sport - Rs 1,06,90,000

The 2023 BMW X5 is expected to carry forward the same 3.0L petrol and diesel engines.

BMW unveiled the X5 LCI facelift globally in February this year. The updated SUV is now set to roll into the Indian market. BMW India has released a teaser confirming the July 14 launch date.

The BMW X5 receives several cosmetic updates as part of the LCI refresh. The SUV gets a restyled exterior featuring new front and rear bumpers and reworked headlamps and taillights. 

Inside, the updated X5 gets a curved display housing a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment running BMW’s latest iDrive 8.0 software. The SUV also gets features like a heads-up display with augmented reality, a panoramic sunroof, and more.

The 2023 BMW X5 is expected to carry forward the same set of engines. The SUV is currently available with a 3.0-litre petrol engine that makes 335 BHP and 450 Nm and a 3.0-litre diesel that puts out 291 BHP and 620 Nm. Both engines get an 8-speed automatic transmission paired with an all-wheel drive system.

Though he got a Toyota Fortuner 4X4 AT in '21, he is not satisfied, misses the ride, the interior quality, music system etc from the Endeavour.

BHPian Sheel recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I had started this thread in 2014. Almost 10 years have passed and while there were few great options sold in that period, nothing much is available now if one wishes to upgrade from those choices, hear me..

But, that is past now [Endeavour, Pajero, Trailblazer, MU-X (might be risky to buy now)].

A friend wishes to upgrade from his Ford Endeavour 3.2 (though he got a Toyota Fortuner 4X4 AT in '21, but is not satisfied, misses the ride, the interior quality, music system etc from the Endeavour).

Main criteria = Ample GC and a 4X4. Reliable.

Budget = Preferably 1cr. and thereabouts.

Should be new.

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

Your friend is in a major predicament, Sheel. Simply because the 30 - 50 lakh segment is "peak car", where a lot of the models punch above their weight (e.g. Endeavour). Offer a lot more car than the expensive Germans above (e.g. Camry, Kodiaq). Pack the latest technology (Ioniq 5). And are still value-for-money.

Above 45-50 lakhs, the laws of diminishing returns kick in.

My suggestion = X3 M40i if he is an enthusiast. He'll enjoy the drive. Take TDs of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, BMW 6-GT etc. and see what he really likes. Extend the budget a bit and get a new GLE or X5. Check with Audi on the latest offers for the Q5 & Q7 (friend got home a Q5 for 62L OTR with extended warranty, service pack).

What I would do = get a pre-owned current-gen Mercedes GLS. The only way to get some iota of value in the luxury segment is going the pre-owned route. You can get a "like new" car still under warranty. Please read my article on the same ("Almost-New" used cars! The logic & beauty of buying 1 - 3 year old pre-worshipped cars), it's zero risk.

Brand-new luxury cars are grossly overpriced and that's the new reality.

Here's what BHPian revsperminute had to say on the matter:

Merc GLE/GLS if he's looking at comfort. x5/x7 if he's a spirited driver. We originally wanted an Endeavour when we were car-shopping in '18 but ended up going for the GLE. In my 5 years with the GLE, it has proven itself to be extremely reliable apart from a few electrical gremlins. Moreover, the thing feels built like a tank (new gen slightly misses out on this). I'm not sure about the off-road performance but it has no complaints whenever we take it to dirt trails, beaches etc even on it's Pilot Sport SUV tyres. The car crushes kilometres like few others on the highway and is mostly unfazed by Indian road conditions.

Also, a huge Merc SUV is the only thing that has the street cred rivalling the Endeavour. (or a Defender wink wink)

Here's what BHPian TJSI had to say on the matter:

Try taking a look at the Volvo XC90. Coming from the Endeavour and Fortuner, I don't think you can go wrong with XC90 in the safety, reliability and performance department.

Here's what BHPian cefiljoseph had to say on the matter:

The only proper upgrade I can think of is the Defender 110 with a diesel engine. However, this would be extending the budget by some 50 percent so it's a huge strech.

Unfortunately, any proper upgrade will knock the value proposition out of the window.

Some other options worth considering are

Newly introduced Cayenne S - comes with a V8 as opposed to the V6 in the current Cayenne. Arguably the best car in the segment.

Macan - If budget is a strict concern, then the base Macan would be a great choicest like the X3 M40i.

If interested in electric, from Jaguar I-Pace to Volvo XC40, there are cars that offer mad performance but I would be reluctant to spend significant money on an electric at the moment.

Fortuner might seem crude and over-priced. However, I should add that a Fortuner or most Toyotas for that matter is a lesson in delayed gratification. While the europeans shine during their warranty period, a Toyota will show its value post the warranty period. But yeah, I don't see how it can be used as an excuse for Toyota to give a mediocre music system and stuff like that.

Congratulation and all the best to your friend.

Here's what BHPian CEF_Beasts had to say on the matter:

I would suggest hold on to the current Fortuner for the time-being and go for the next-gen Fortuner which is going to be based on the TNGA-F BoF platform, which underpins the likes of the LC300, Tundra, Tacoma, Sequoia, new-gen Lexus GX and LX. The biggest fly-in-the-ointment of the Fortuner ie. the ride-quality will be solved with this platform.

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