BMW X5
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Given the number of substantive changes (some 4,000 new parts) in 2011, the 2012 BMW X5 is largely a carryover model year for the SUV, with only minor modifications.
For 2011 the X5's gasoline engines have been updated and are now paired with an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. Along with subtly tweaked styling, the 2011 model includes new options like active cruise control and a lane departure warning system.
The big news for 2009 is the introduction of a diesel model, the X5 xDrive 35d, to the lineup. Other changes include the addition of heated rear seats to the Cold Weather package and an automatic tailgate to the Premium Package. The self-leveling rear suspension is removed from the 48i's standard equipment list and is now only available with the optional third-row seat.
The 2008 BMW X5 receives more standard equipment, including a power sliding panoramic sunroof.
Since the X5's introduction the SUV/CUV market has become much more competitive, and BMW's own smaller X3 snuck up behind it with similar character and more cargo room for a lot less money. This second-generation X5 is larger, roomier and more powerful and offers optional third-row seating for the first time.
When BMW introduced its first "crossover" SUV (CUV) in 2000, its marketers called it "SAV" for "Sports Activity Vehicle." The point was to separate it from other sport utilities of the time and position it as a BMW-appropriate blend of performance and handling with practicality, versatility and all-weather capability. For the most part, it worked, for both the positioning and the vehicle. The original X5 was not the roomiest or most practical of SUVs, but piloting it down a twisty two-lane ribbon of road was a revelation. It drove like a taller version of the 5 Series sedan, which in many ways it was.
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x5 3.0s
By dan (CT) on Thursday, May 01, 2008
overall rating 9 of 10rating details
Reviewer Ratings
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"I traded in an MB ML 320 for this X5...what a difference. Out with a truck, in with a sedan that has the utility of a truck (SUV, that is). Smooth but sporty ride. Great corning ("this is an SUV?"). Lots of electonics that are initially intimidating, but shortly you'll say "hey, this is better". I chose this over newer Mercedes ML and GL (still trucky), Acura MDX (close second to X5, but hate the grill and internal, uh, wood?), Audi Q (3rd choice, but sooooo big, cant touch BMW interior quality), Lexus GX and RX (looks and feels 8 years old even when new)."
20 people out of 20 found this review helpful
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X5 diesel: dream to drive; service intensive
By Vox Populi (PA) on Monday, December 05, 2011
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 30,000
overall rating 6 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
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- Styling
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Pros: "Good to dirve"
Cons: "Impractical maintenance protocol; poor support"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I took delivery of my X5 diesel May 2010. It is now a bit shy of 18 months and 30,000 miles. "The ultimate driving machine" may be indeed what it is (given it is an SUV cross-over.) I love the car. Notwithstanding maintenance issues. Even the best dealers do not seem to "know it". Service leaves much to be desired. Lets put it this way: I drive 160 miles round trip to avoid taking it to my three local dealers. The dealer I bought the car from proved to be unable to maintain it. It does need maintenance. I've owned it for almost 18 months, a quick review of my file shows it has been into maintenance over twelve times, sometimes to address the same problem. Some of the difficulty is that the warranty system is base on the iDrive system which treats each system independently. For example, I was suppose to bring in the vehicle for break pads in <1,000 miles then bring it in for an oil change in 3,000 miles. Unter the warranty these trips can't be combined. No concept of x miles or y months. Do two trips or you pay for the oil change if you want it done when the brak pads are to be inspected. On the other hand, some of the problems arise because the dealers do not apear to know what to do with the X5d - two examples: (i) had the oil changed and the engine compartment fill up with uria fluid - - the mechanic had over filled it, another (ii) twice I have taken the vehicle to a dealer only to be told it required special parts for the maintenance because it was a diesel and I'd have to go back next week since it took that long to get them. Apparently the dealers can not figure this out before the car shows up. The GPS is clunky; no one would buy it as a stand-alone unit. The rest of the electrical interface is the same. BMW needs to hire a consultant that understands human interfaces. Storage space for luggage is not significantly bigger them my wife's Corolla. On the other-hand - - I love driving it and I have been willing spend time and money for the pleasure."
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful
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Great SUV
By CJ (Cleveland, OH) on Wednesday, December 01, 2010
overall rating 9 of 10rating details
Reviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
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"I previously leased a 2006 X5, and liked it so much that I decided to purchase a 2009 X5 when the lease ran out. Although I am not thrilled about some of the new interior design features, the ride, handling, performance, and warranty on this vehicle is unrivaled. In comparison to other SUV's, this one may feel like you are driving a tank, but the responsiveness when accelerating and braking are amazing. There is no effort to get this vehicle up hills at highway speeds, or emergency braking. The warranty (no maintenance costs up to 50,000 miles) gives the BMW a considerable edge over M-B or Porsche. Although it is pricey, I have already recommended this vehicle to family and friends. Even if you can get a good deal on a used X5, it is worth it."
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful
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