2007 BMW X5: Road Test
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2007 BMW X5 ▼
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- MSRP: $45,900 -$54,500
- Invoice: $42,230 -$50,140
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Our road test for the 2007 BMW X5 includes a full evaluation of the 2007 BMW X5 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 BMW X5, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 BMW X5 help you decide if a 2007 BMW X5 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Only 4.8i models made available for test so far. They're not fast off the line, but build speed quickly for good high-speed response. BMW says 4.8i does 6.4 sec 0-60 mph. Transmission smooth, alert.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.6 |
Test 4.8i averaged 13.9-14.8 mpg. All X5s require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.6 |
Surprisingly firm with base suspension. Little comfort difference in models with sport suspension, 19-inch tires vs those with base suspension, 18s. No opportunity to test with 20-inch tires.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Outstanding balance, grip make X5 feel more like a sport sedan than an SUV. Minimal body lean in turns, especially with Sport Package. Models equipped without Active Steering required surprising effort to turn at low speeds. Strong brakes, excellent pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.5 |
Some engine noise, coarse surface tire thrum. Otherwise, X5 pleasantly quiet. Sport Package's 19-inch tires not noticeably louder than standard 18s.
CONTROLS
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.5 |
Frequently used audio, climate controls thankfully separate from iDrive. Any functions governed by iDrive require a long look from the road. Navigation system operation a frustrating ordeal with complex control, cryptic markings. Interior materials a nice blend of durability, luxury; are assembled with care. One test vehicle suffered from several squeaks and rattles in the dashboard and rear-seat area.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.3 |
Great leg room, though taller drivers will be cramped for head room beneath sunroof housing. Seats with optional upgraded upholstery harder, less comfortable than standard buckets. Adjustable thigh support a comfort plus. Rear headrests partially block view astern, but visibility good otherwise, aided by available front, rear obstacle detection. Note that screen of available DVD entertainment system folds and rests atop center console armrest, rather than dropping from the ceiling. Some testers find their elbows frequently bump against the folded screen.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Decent head room. Leg, knee space unexceptional in five-passenger versions. Second-row seat reclines on all X5s, slides fore/aft in seven-seat models, increasing comfort for those passengers. Third row suits kids only, and even they will be cramped unless 2nd-row seat fully forward. Entry/exit to 3rd-row seat requires contortions.
CARGO ROOM
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.8 |
With 3rd-row seat up, enough room for a row of grocery bags. Very good space behind 2nd row. All seatbacks fold flat to further increase capacity. X5 liftgate has a clamshell design that creates a drop-down tailgate section. High liftover means the tailgate must be dropped to load even moderately sized items. Interior storage nothing special.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 5.9 |
X5 is noteworthy primarily for its sporty handling. Kudos to BMW for simplifying key functions in its iDrive control system. However, the navigation system is confounding, the available 3rd-row seat is a token gesture, and X5 is pricey, particularly in V8 form. The price premium, though, is partially offset by strong resale values.
Total Score
| 4.8i w/Sport Pkg. | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat | 4.8i w/3rd-row seat, nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 59 | 59 | 57 | 61.3 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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