Description
An incredibly well-preserved and low-mileage example of BMW’s first-generation luxury SUV, this 2003 BMW X5 3. 0i has covered just 63, 000 miles from new - a rarity among E53s, most of which have long exceeded six figures.
Delivered new on 1st March 2003 by Wood BMW of Bournemouth to its first owner, a Mr M. Gilbert, this example has enjoyed a remarkably gentle life in the hands of just two previous keepers. It remains accompanied by a wealth of original documentation, including both leather BMW bookpacks, the original stamped service book, and even the new vehicle order form - a seldom-seen addition that perfectly complements its history file.
Finished in the rare and elegant Oxford Green II over Dakota Light Beige leather, it’s a refreshingly distinctive alternative to the usual black or grey examples, perfectly highlighting the X5’s restrained yet purposeful design. This particular car was highly specified when new, with £7, 000 worth of factory options and accessories - including the automatic gearbox, Light Poplar wood trim, navigation with TV tuner, sun protection glass, and the wonderfully period ‘Royal’ velour mats, which astonishingly remain in their original packaging. The total cost when new was £40, 000 – around £80, 000 in today’s money.
Mechanically, this X5 has benefitted from careful, considered maintenance throughout its life, backed by a comprehensive service record and numerous supporting invoices. In preparation for sale, it has recently undergone a fresh service, a multi-day machine polish, and refurbishment of both the dashboard display and central navigation screen, remedying the common pixel issue on these cars.
As a ULEZ-exempt petrol model, the 3. 0-litre straight-six offers the perfect balance of refinement, reliability and real-world performance - smoother and simpler than its diesel counterparts and considerably less temperamental than the V8s. In many ways, it represents the thinking man’s choice, combining everyday usability with true modern-classic appeal.
A beautifully original, low-ownership example of one of BMW’s landmark models - and surely one of the finest E53s available today.
