Of course, now I know why, because this diesel powered SUV behaves like an off-road rocket ship! The torque which the vehicle’s 3.0L DOHC I-6 24V diesel power plant produces is phenomenal (425lb/ft @ 1750-2250 rpm). Couple this to a wonderful 6-speed automatic transmission and we’re talking of an SUV on steroids. In fact, the X5d outperforms its 3.0L gasoline brother in 0-100kph times by a whole second and its only half a second slower than the big 4.8L version. Now maybe you understand why I like diesels so much. Not only do they return greater fuel economy for the type and size of vehicle (In this case, 10.7 City / 7.5 Hwy), but the pulling power which you get from them is immense.

Now we come to the handling, and I kind of wonder if I actually need to say anything here, after all, it is a BMW. You know, the Ultimate Driving Machine!

Actually, I’ve often wondered about that title! Yes, when we’re talking of cars like the M Series, it’s kind of hard not to buy into it, but across the whole range? That’s a bit of an epic reputation to live up to.

Nethertheless, it has to be said that BMW has done wonders with the suspension setup on the X5d. With a double wishbone up front and an integral 4-link system on the rear, the vehicle rides the bumps and potholes extremely well, and it takes corners like a pro. In fact, it almost makes you forget that you’re seated in a rather large SUV.

Of course, that’s something else which could be debated, because although the X5d appears rather big on the outside, it doesn’t feel like a huge machine once you’re in the driver’s seat. Yes, there’s ample room for five large adults, and their entire luggage, yet at the same time, the driver can enjoy a cockpit-like sporty experience at the wheel.

I have to say that I truly enjoyed my week in the BMW X5d, and it actually made me do a little head scratching and thinking. Never again will I make a quick assumption on a vehicle without actually trying it out properly. If you had asked me last week to name my list of favorite SUV’s, the BMW wouldn’t have got a look in. Now, well let’s just say that it’s firmly planted on that list, and within easy reach of the top!