2004 BMW X5: Road Test
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2004 BMW X5 ▼
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- MSRP: $40,800 -$69,800
- Invoice: $37,290 -$63,680
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Our road test for the 2004 BMW X5 includes a full evaluation of the 2004 BMW X5 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 BMW X5, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 BMW X5 help you decide if a 2004 BMW X5 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.8 |
Test 4.4i did 6.8 sec 0-60 mph, and provided impressive acceleration at all speeds. New 6-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly. Test automatic-transmission 3.0i did 8.2 sec 0-60. Test 2003 3.0i models with 5-speed manual were noticeably livelier than those with automatic; 2004s with new 6-speed manual should be quicker still. We have not yet tested a 4.8is.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Test 4.4i averaged 14.0 mpg. Test automatic-transmission 3.0i averaged 14.8. No opportunity to measure 3.0i with 6-speed manual; 5-speed version averaged 17.6. All X5s require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 4 | 4.9 |
With absorbent, comfortable base suspension, ride is firmer than Lexus RX 330's, softer than Infiniti FX's. The 4.4i's optional low-profile 19-inch performance tires induce jiggle and rumble on rough pavement.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 5.2 |
Among similarly priced luxury SUVs, only Infiniti FX and Porsche Cayenne rival X5's sporty road manners. Balance, grip outstanding, despite some body lean in fast changes of direction. Steering effort rather high in parking lots and around town, but near perfect at freeway speed. New AWD system does excellent job apportioning power to minimize wheelslip, though be aware that 19-inch performance tires have poor traction in snow. Simulated emergency stops short, stable in 3.0i, a bit longer in heavier 4.4i.
QUIETNESS
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 4 | 6 |
Coarse-surface thrum from 19-inch tires and wearing V8 exhaust note. Pleasantly calm otherwise.
CONTROLS
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4 | 6 |
Mostly handy and precise, but confounding navigation and audio systems take time to master. Some testers would prefer that automatic transmission's manual shift action work as on most other vehicles, with a forward push to upshift, a rearward tug to downshift; X5's works in the reverse. Cabin materials a study in stylish quality.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Generous head and leg room on firm, supportive seats. Typical high-rise SUV driving stance. Heated steering wheel available. Rear headrests slightly impede aft visibility. Optional front- and rear-obstacle-detection system a plus.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 6.2 |
Plenty of head clearance, but leg space tight with front seats pushed more than halfway back. Intrusive rear wheel housings preclude three-abreast comfort for adults. Tall step-up, tight doorways impede entry/exit. Heated rear seats optional on both models.
CARGO ROOM
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.4 |
Less overall volume than any luxury SUV, rear seat up or down. High liftover, but separate-opening glass a convenience. Flimsy cargo cover seems cheap at X5's price level.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 3 | 5.6 |
Along with the Infiniti FX and more-expensive Porsche Cayenne, X5 is the luxury SUV of choice for sporty on-road driving. Absence of 3rd-row seating, modest rear-passenger room, and limited cargo volume make it, in effect, a high-riding compact-size AWD wagon, albeit one with BMW spirit. Prices are steep, but are partly offset by strong resale values.
Total Score
| 3.0i, auto. | 4.4i | 4.4i w/19-inch wheels, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 59 | 53 | 57.8 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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