What to replace BMW X5 tow car with? We own a 2003 BMW X5 3.0-litre diesel that has done 70,000 miles. It is fantastic for towing our large caravan and is the most comfortable long-distance tourer we have owned. We are reluctant to sell it, but wonder how long our 100 per cent reliability record will hold. When should we think about changing and what would be a suitable alternative, given that the current X5 is too big for a retired couple? I can understand that you'll be sad to see the BMW go after nine years. One option is to remove the swirl flaps from the inlet manifold, get the car thoroughly checked and carry on. It's only worth about £5,500. Reasonable modern replacements would be the Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento 2.2 R-Type diesel with the six-speed manual transmission.