The BMW X5 (G05) 30d xDrive Steptronic, produced from 2018 to August 2020, represents a key variant within the third generation of BMW’s popular Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). Positioned as a mid-range offering, the 30d aimed to balance performance, efficiency, and practicality for buyers seeking a premium SUV experience. It served as a diesel-powered alternative to the gasoline-fueled X5 models, particularly appealing to European markets where diesel engines held significant market share due to favorable taxation and fuel economy. This model is built on the Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform, BMW’s modular architecture designed for scalability and weight reduction.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | X5 |
| Generation | X5 (G05) |
| Type (Engine) | 30d (265 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | August, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SAV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8-7.7 l/100 km (34.6 – 30.5 US mpg, 41.5 – 36.7 UK mpg, 14.7 – 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6-6.3 l/100 km (42 – 37.3 US mpg, 50.4 – 44.8 UK mpg, 17.9 – 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.0-6.8 l/100 km (39.2 – 34.6 US mpg, 47.1 – 41.5 UK mpg, 16.7 – 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 158-179 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 293.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 88.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B57D30A |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2860 kg (6305.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 645 l (22.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1860 l (65.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2700 kg (5952.48 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 4922 mm (193.78 in.) |
| Width | 2004 mm (78.9 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2218 mm (87.32 in.) |
| Height | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2975 mm (117.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1666 mm (65.59 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Front overhang | 874 mm (34.41 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1073 mm (42.24 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 214 mm (8.43 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 25.2° |
| Departure angle | 22.3° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.2° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the X5 30d is BMW’s B57D30A 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine. This engine is a member of the modular B-series engine family, known for its robust construction and advanced technology. The B57 features a common-rail direct fuel injection system operating at extremely high pressures (2,500 bar) for optimized combustion and reduced emissions. It’s equipped with a variable geometry turbocharger and an intercooler to enhance power and torque delivery. The engine also incorporates BMW’s BluePower technology, including a diesel particulate filter and NOx catalyst to meet stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards. The engine produces 265 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 and 2,500 rpm. This torque output is a key characteristic of the engine, providing strong pulling power and effortless acceleration. The engine is paired with BMW’s 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, known for its smooth and quick shifts. This transmission is designed to optimize fuel efficiency and provide a comfortable driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The X5 30d xDrive Steptronic delivers a refined and capable driving experience. The high torque output of the diesel engine provides strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.2 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as the gasoline-powered X5 variants, the 30d offers ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The 8-speed automatic transmission contributes to smooth gear changes and efficient power delivery. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. The suspension setup, featuring double wishbone suspension at both the front and rear, offers a comfortable ride quality without sacrificing handling precision. Compared to the higher-output X5 models, the 30d feels less urgent in its acceleration, but its abundant torque makes it feel effortless in most driving situations. The manual transmission option, available in some markets, offered a more engaging driving experience, but the automatic was favored by many buyers for its convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The X5 30d xDrive Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a 12.3-inch infotainment display with iDrive controller, navigation system, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and parking sensors. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and various interior trim options. The trim levels offered different levels of luxury and customization, with higher trims featuring more premium materials and additional features.
Chassis & Braking
The X5 30d utilizes a robust chassis designed for both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The suspension system, with its double wishbone design, provides a good balance between ride quality and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. The electronic stability control system further enhances safety by helping to prevent skids and loss of control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The X5 30d was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and strong torque output. It was often seen as a practical and sensible choice for buyers who prioritized efficiency and long-distance comfort over outright performance. Compared to the X5 xDrive40i (gasoline), the 30d offered better fuel economy but slightly slower acceleration. Compared to the X5 M50d (high-performance diesel), the 30d provided a more affordable entry point into the X5 range with a less aggressive driving experience. The diesel engine’s reputation for longevity and reliability also contributed to its popularity in the used car market.
Legacy
The BMW X5 (G05) 30d xDrive Steptronic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The B57 diesel engine is known for its robustness and longevity, and the 8-speed Steptronic transmission has also proven to be dependable. In the used car market, the X5 30d remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a premium SUV with good fuel economy and a comfortable driving experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel engines, such as diesel particulate filter (DPF) maintenance and potential issues with the fuel injection system. Overall, the X5 30d represents a well-engineered and capable SUV that continues to offer a compelling value proposition in the used car market.
