The BMW X5 (E70 LCI) 35i xDrive Steptronic, produced from 2010 to 2013, represents a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation X5. The “LCI” designation (Life Cycle Impulse) signifies a facelift, bringing updated styling, improved technology, and revised engine options to the popular luxury SUV. This particular variant, powered by the N55B30A 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 306 horsepower, occupied a key position in the X5 lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and price. It served as a step up from the base xDrive30i model while remaining more accessible than the range-topping xDrive50i.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | X5 |
| Generation | X5 (E70 LCI, facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 35i (306 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg, 21.4 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg, 9.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 236 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1200-5000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1200-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N55B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.9 l (11.52 US qt | 9.59 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2750 kg (6062.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 620 l (21.9 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1750 l (61.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 4857 mm (191.22 in.) |
| Width | 1933 mm (76.1 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2197 mm (86.5 in.) |
| Height | 1776 mm (69.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2933 mm (115.47 in.) |
| Front track | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Front overhang | 864 mm (34.02 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1060 mm (41.73 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 222 mm (8.74 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.8 m (41.99 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 25.5° |
| Departure angle | 22.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.8° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 255/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The E70 generation BMW X5, launched in 2006, was BMW’s first foray into the burgeoning luxury SUV segment. The 2010 LCI update brought significant changes, including revised front and rear styling, updated interior materials, and crucially, a new generation of engines. The 35i xDrive Steptronic variant, powered by the N55 engine and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a sweet spot in the range. It offered a compelling blend of performance and efficiency, appealing to buyers who desired the X5’s capabilities without the higher price tag of the larger, more powerful models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the X5 35i lies the N55B30A, a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a significant departure from the naturally aspirated engines of the earlier E70 models, utilizing a single twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VANOS) and valve lift (Valvetronic) technologies. The N55 produced 306 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1200 rpm all the way to 5000 rpm. This broad torque curve contributed to strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine’s direct injection system precisely meters fuel into the combustion chambers, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The eight-speed automatic transmission (8HP70) provided smooth and quick shifts, further enhancing the driving experience. This transmission was known for its efficiency and responsiveness, contributing to the X5 35i’s relatively good fuel economy for its class.
Driving Characteristics
The X5 35i xDrive Steptronic delivered a refined and capable driving experience. While not as brutally fast as the xDrive50i, the 35i offered ample power for everyday driving and confident passing maneuvers. The eight-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, providing seamless gear changes and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. Compared to the six-speed automatic found in earlier X5 models, the eight-speed offered improved fuel economy and a more relaxed highway cruising experience. The 35i felt noticeably more responsive than the base xDrive30i, but lacked the outright punch of the larger displacement engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The X5 35i xDrive Steptronic came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. Optional extras included navigation, a panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, and a suite of driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize their X5. The standard dashboard layout featured a central iDrive display for controlling infotainment and vehicle settings.
Chassis & Braking
The E70 X5 utilized a robust chassis with a MacPherson strut front suspension and an integral-arm rear suspension. The 35i model typically featured slightly smaller stabilizer bars compared to the higher-performance variants. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The X5’s suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributed torque between the front and rear axles, optimizing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The X5 35i xDrive Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its strong engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. Compared to the xDrive30i, the 35i offered a significant performance upgrade without a substantial price increase. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a luxury SUV of its size, although it didn’t match the efficiency of some of its competitors. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with oil leaks and cooling system components.
Legacy
The BMW X5 (E70) 35i xDrive Steptronic remains a popular choice in the used car market. The N55 engine is known for its durability and tunability, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. While maintenance costs can be higher than some other SUVs, the X5 35i offers a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and practicality. The eight-speed automatic transmission has proven to be exceptionally reliable. Today, these vehicles represent a good value for buyers seeking a well-equipped and capable luxury SUV with a proven track record.
