Vehicle Analysis:

The BMW X5 3.Osi 2007-model is a premium midsize SUV right up there with the Lexus’ RX and Porche Cayenne, as fully-equipped as any of its peers in the upmarket class. The 3.0L 24-valve 6-cylinder test
model with a perky 260 hp and the new Steptronic gear selection with Adaptive Transmission Control plus an intelligent x-drive all-wheel drive system imparted a smooth ride on even the roughest road surfaces. A 6-speed manual transmission is available, as are optional 315 hp and 355 hp V-8 engines.


Standard features abound, including self-leveling rear suspension, heated steering wheel, 4-zone climate control (includes 3rd row), digital compass mirror, 18-inch alloy wheels, Xenon adaptive headlights with automatic headlight control and universal garage door opener, to name a few.


Suggested price for the test model was $45,900. Add-ons include special Nevada leather seating ($1,450), 3rd row seat ($1,700), panoramic moon roof ($1,350), rear window blinds ($250), heated front seats ($500), park distance control ($700), rear seat entertainment system ($1,800), BMW assist (similar to OnStar) with Bluetooth system ($750), and destination charges ($695) for a total price of $65,095.


The X5 with AT averaged 14-16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, compared to EPA ratings of 17 and 23 – not great, but Bimmer devotees treasure their cars as much for 50% resale value against fuel savings.


Safety and Convenience:
Standard features abound in the safety sector as well, including dual threshold “smart” front-seat airbags, side impact airbags and head protection system both front and rear. Standard also is 4-wheel and antilock disc brakes with Dynamic Stability Control, traction control, Dynamic Brake Control and hill descent control. Hill descent control takes charge of steep downhill movements as quickly as possible in mountainous-like areas.


Standard halogen fog lights have a cornering lights function exclusive in the X5’s league of SUVs. Other standard features include power-heated door mirrors, front/rear obstacle protection, rear window wiper/washer/defroster with rain-sensing wipers.
000’s precise variable-assist power steering system, always an industry leader, has been even more refined on the X3. BMW has tested the X3’s front and rear bumpers at impact speeds of 2.5 mph without body damage.


Basic BMW limited warranty includes 4-years/50,000-miles full maintenance program, a 12-year rust perforation warranty and roadside assistance program for 4 years/unlimited mileage.


Observations:
The X5 introduces push-button engine starting and stopping, a definite theft repellent. The Nevada
leather seating is extra-special and extremely comfortable. For those who treasure serenity while driving, the X5 is one of the quietest vehicles on the road, enhanced by the 18-inch alloy wheels.

Cargo volume is limited, compared to other premium midsize SUV contenders, even when the rear seats are folded down. BMW’s answer to GM’s OnStar is the exclusive assist emergency/concierge service – a must whether on an autobahn or Interstate.