Considering a BMW contract hire or car lease? Discover why the BMW X5 is a popular urban cruiser that may be the right fit for you.

BMW X5 leasing makes an expensive car much more accessible and has been used by savvy car shoppers in the UK since 1999. Following its launch, the X5 became an immediate favourite among businessmen, footballers and school-run professionals alike, with its popularity being boosted by the availability of BMW X5 car lease plans for individuals such as PCP or contract hire for businesses.

In 2006, the X5 was given a makeover with new engines and exterior design, which has helped keep it fresh as one of the UK’s favourite 4x4s. Since its launch, BMW X5 car leasing has been a very popular way of getting behind the driver’s seat – which, may we add, is often upholstered in the softest, richest Bavarian leather, adding to the luxurious interior ambiance.

If you are a business and opt for a BMW X5 contract hire deal, you’ll be getting a product from a company that, for over forty years, has shown class-leading skill in building cars that genuinely feel like luxury items.

BMW, more so than many of their competitors, produce cars that can be appreciated for excellent build quality, passion and soul – which, in an industry that is now dominated by mass-production techniques, is a very special attribute indeed and one that will not go un-noticed when you sit in the X5.

So, is BMW X5 leasing the right option, as opposed to its main rivals from Mercedes or Lexus? Well, it depends on the driver. BMW drivers tend to drive BMWs for a number of reasons, and high up on that list is the fun factor.

BMW has always chosen to create sporty cars focused on driver involvement and traditionally this has meant trading some ride comfort for an increased sense of ‘sportiness’. You must buy into this ethos of fast and fun cars if you are to lease any BMW, because elements of these features are in every car they build, including the X5.

BMW know that their customers want a car that will satisfy them when they wish to pick up the pace a little, which means that despite the rich leather and luxury ambiance, the ride can be somewhat stiff over bumps and potholes. To top this off, they thought it prudent to fit huge wheels with rubber-band style tyres – another contributor to the hard ride.

To ambitious drivers this is a worthwhile trade-off. However, those with no inclination to drive quickly may be left wondering why their luxury 4×4 is no more comfortable than the ‘Max Powered’ Vauxhall Nova typically favoured by teenagers. If this is you, then perhaps you should also consider the Mercedes ML or Lexus RX series, neither of which will handle as well, but will both offer you high levels of comfort.

With a BMW X5 car lease, you get affordable access to a new car that will be beautifully made inside, feature a modern engine and a sporty drive. Our advice regarding your BMW X5 car lease period would be to try the 3 litre turbo diesel engine, which gives an excellent spread of power, whilst also managing to sip rather than slurp fuel. It also features small wheels, to add a little extra comfort and take the edge off that comparatively harsh ride.