2002 BMW X5 3.0 Diesel Automatic, 15,995€

• Year: 2002
• Make: BMW
• Model: X5 3.0 Diesel
• Category: 4X4's
• Registration: Spanish Registered
• Engine: 3.0 Turbo Diesel
• Stereo: Media Pack
• Body type: 4x4
• Transmission: Tiptronic
• Fuel type: Diesel
• Int. color: Black Leather
• Ext. color: Metallic Grey
• Kms/Miles: 102000Kms
• Price: Euro 15,995

The BMW X5 is a luxury crossover SUV introduced in 1999. It was BMW's first SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) also known as "Four-by-Four" (4x4) in the UK. It features all-wheel drive and is available with either manual or automatic transmission (the manual transmission option was dropped from the 2006 model year onwards). A range of gasoline inline-6s, V8s and diesel engines are offered.

BMW describes the X5 as a Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV) rather than an SUV, to emphasize its on-road ability despite its size. Like the Lexus RX 300 and Mercedes M-Class, the X5 heralded the shift from truck-based body-on-frame SUVs to sedan-based crossovers that would come to fruition in the late 2000s.

With its desirable looks, well-earned reputation for premium quality, truly satisfying on-road driving abilities and strong residuals, the accomplished and well-rounded X5 continues to be a strong contender for anyone with more than a passing interest in driving enjoyment who's looking to buy a used 4x4 in Spain.

'Safety first' could well apply to the X5, because F.I.R.S.T (Fully Integrated Road Safety Technology) incorporates all of BMW's active and passive safety systems under one umbrella. Adding to driver, passenger and front door airbags, the X5 features front and head airbags as standard. These head airbags prevent the head and shoulders from hitting the door in the event of an accident. As they remain inflated longer than conventional airbags, they continue to protect passengers in the event of the car rolling. With rear door airbags available optionally, the X5 boasts ten airbags. Part of the reason the X5 was awarded a five-star Euro NCAP rating.

Not only is this Spanish registered car idealy suited to the Spainish roads with their quirky pot holes and numerous speed humps, its a joy to drive. If it's not enough to be driving a luxury BMW car the added bonus of looking down on people would to too much to resist for some people. A test drive of this car is highly recommended at the earliest oppurtunity as I might want to keep this one for myself.

Martin Scott
Used cars in Spain expert