After months of searching and test driving, I finally became a BMW owner, purchasing a 2008 X5 3.0si with a respectable 64,000 miles on the clock. My hunt for the right X5 involved looking at several E70 models, including multiple versions of the more powerful 4.8i. Ultimately, the pristine condition and remarkably low mileage of the 3.0si model swayed my decision. Frankly, the examples of the 4.8i I encountered had significantly higher mileage and showed more signs of wear and tear. My 3.0si also came equipped with appealing 20″ ‘214’ wheels and stock running boards, giving it a look that could easily be mistaken for the higher-spec model, save for the more subtle tailpipes.
While there’s no denying the extra punch the 4.8i engine delivers when you put your foot down – and yes, a part of me does crave that additional horsepower – I’m genuinely thrilled with my 3.0si. The BMW X5 is a substantial vehicle, and some argue that the 3.0-liter engine might be underpowered for its size. However, I recently discovered the trick of resetting the adaptive transmission, allowing it to relearn shift patterns based on my driving style. This simple reset made a noticeable difference in the responsiveness of the vehicle. It seems the previous owner had a gentler driving style than mine, and the reset truly tailored the transmission to my preferences.
Unless you’re aiming to win every traffic light drag race, the 3.0si engine moves the X5 with more than adequate vigor in my experience. And when I desire a more spirited drive, simply shifting into Sport mode provides that extra level of engagement. Ultimately, I’m enjoying the benefits of better fuel economy and reduced fuel costs with the 3.0si, making it a practical and enjoyable choice for everyday driving.
