BMW X5 4.8i: Running on Empty
Price as tested: $61,745
I’ll admit it. The first generation BMW X5’s combination of all-wheel drive, power on demand, and crisp handling had me hooked. But since then, the all-wheel drive 5 series sedan/wagon has become my favorite Bimmer, and the rest of the “performance SUV” market has caught up to the venerable X5.
This year’s model refreshes the speedy truck’s offerings with some attractive new lines, a larger exterior and wider track, and an optional $1200 third-row seat. The more powerful 4.8i version that I drove features a 4.8 liter, 350 horsepower V8 engine with 350 lb-ft of torque, and a standard six-speed automatic transmission. A 260 horsepower V6 is also available.
BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system, engine-speed-sensitive power steering, and famously tenacious brakes help maintain the performance standard set by the first-generation X5. But just as with their trend-setting 3 series sedan, BMW’s original X5 established a target for others to shoot for, and vehicles such as Acura’s re-designed MDX and the Infiniti FX45 now meet or exceed what Munich (via Spartanburg, South Carolina) has to offer.
For example, while the new X5 is more luxurious than its predecessor, some of its features are not particularly well thought out. The richly upholstered seats offer minimal lateral support. The DVD entertainment screen – mounted between the front seats – folds “out of the way” against the top of the center console, blocking its opening. And while that screen entertains second row passengers, munchkins in the way-back will want their money back. Then, of course, there’s iDrive.
On the road, the X5 may be fast, but it’s not particularly quick off the line. When the light turns green, the X5 offers a satisfyingly throaty exhaust growl, however with little movement to back it up. Both the MDX and FX45 are quicker. And in spirited driving – say, on New York’s narrow and tortuous Bronx River Parkway – the X5 is equaled by the Acura and the Infiniti, and easily bested by the Porsche Cayenne.
The next generation X5 looks great, but its curvy new lines make it difficult to gauge distances when parking – not a problem with the Acura, Infiniti or Porsche. And gas mileage seems unusually poor for a newly designed vehicle, even an SUV.
The verdict: The combination of “BMW” and “SUV” may be irresistible, but you can do better.
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