2009 BMW X5 4-door 30i Sport Utility

When BMW introduced its first "crossover" SUV (CUV) in 2000, its marketers called it a "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. The 2009 version is all of that, and roomier, as well.

You'll Like This SUV If...	You May Not Like This SUV If...
If you would be driving an upscale German sport sedan such as a BMW 5 Series, but want or need more utility, along with all-wheel-drive security, this may be the right fit for your garage.	Because the X5 is substantially more expensive than competitors with similar capabilities, and its ride and handling balance is biased toward firmer road handling, you may be happier with something softer-riding and more affordable.

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.